Reporters frequently interrupt your answers with another question. Many times these interruptions are not planned and the topic is not controversial or sensitive; it's just the style of the reporter. Something you say triggers another question in the reporter's mind, and he or she immediately asks it. If you stop your answer and begin to respond to this new question, you will rarely get to your message. If you try to talk over the reporter's new question, no one will understand what you are saying. Also, the reporter will continue to interrupt you unless you stop it immediately. Instead, you should take the following steps:

1. Politely say, "Excuse me. I would like to finish my answer. You asked a very good question and I think your audience will find my answer important."
    

2. Then complete the answer to the reporter's original question. Don't rush it. Answer as you were originally going to and attempt to get to your message. Don't shorten your answer because the reporter interrupted you with another question.
   

3. After completing your answer, then ask the reporter to repeat the next question. Don't try to remember it. You want to concentrate on your original answer.

Usually the reporter will only try interrupting you once or twice if you stand up for your rights. If you are on a radio or TV, the reporter will appear unreasonable and pushy if he or she continues to interrupt. Finally, I strongly encourage you not to appear on a program where interruptions are part of the format. These shows are entertainment, not news.

The "Media Interview Tip of the Month" is taken from my book, Winning Media Interviews: Sure-Fire Tactics to Get Your Messages Out. Feel free to share my tips with your staff and colleagues. I would like to hear from you about using the techniques I discuss in my book. Also, send me a note and let me know if it is okay to share your comments with others on this web page (to contact Steve go here.)