When you're in the spotlight during a media interview, there's one crucial mistake you should never make: never go off message.
Staying on message means sticking to the key points you want to communicate and not getting sidetracked by irrelevant or potentially damaging topics. The reason this is so important is that the media often looks for soundbites—short, memorable quotes that can be easily shared and repeated. If you wander off topic, you risk saying something that could be taken out of context or misinterpreted, which can lead to negative publicity or even damage your reputation.
By staying on message, you control the narrative. You ensure that your key points are clear, concise, and, most importantly, consistent. This helps the audience understand and remember the core message you want to convey. It also reduces the likelihood of being caught off guard by unexpected questions or being drawn into a conversation that doesn't serve your purpose.
Remember, a media interview is not a casual chat—it's a strategic opportunity to communicate your message to a broader audience. So, stay focused, stay on message, and you'll come across as confident, prepared, and professional.
