Media Training Podcast How to answer hostile or negative questions from a journalist
Mar 6, 2024
Delve into the art of managing difficult interviews with insights on handling hostile journalist questions. Learn techniques for maintaining composure and active listening to navigate tension effectively. Discover ways to reframe inquiries and bridge back to your key messages, transforming combative exchanges into constructive dialogues. Gain valuable skills to enhance your media interactions and stay poised under pressure.
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Stay Calm Under Attack
- When facing hostile questions, keep calm to de-escalate tension and avoid getting flustered.
- Smile, pause, and calmly make your point; repeat "can I just finish my point" if interrupted.
Avoid Hostile Interviews
- The best defence is to avoid appearing on hostile shows, just say no if invited.
- Recognize where aggressive journalism happens and decline to participate if you don't want to be attacked.
Losing Control Means Losing
- Losing your temper in interviews means you've lost and they'll edit your anger for widespread broadcast.
- Shouting back won't win since presenters aim to dominate and silence you on air.