How To Be A Media Darling

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

How To Be A Media Darling

Athletes and celebrities that are comfortable dealing with media are often the ones that will be targeted by blue-chip companies for endorsement and marketing deals. It’s a simple equation; companies want someone that they know is able to represent their product well. Therefore it is in the best interest of athletes/other celebrities to develop great relationships with reporters and journalists so that they are presented in the best light possible. 

So how does one go about doing this? Of course it starts with getting the interview (something which a qualified publicist can help with if interview requests aren’t flowing in). Once an interview is secured, it’s up to the individual to make a good impression.

•  Remember the reporter or interviewer’s name and use it during the interview. Psychologists have shown that when you use someone’s name in conversation, their overall impression of you will be improved.

•  Human beings are drawn in by stories. Telling a story in your interview about a situation that occurred behind the scenes or in the locker room is one way to make your interview more interesting.

• As much as possible, interviewees should try to mimic normal conversation. It’s ok to ask the interviewer questions if that’s your personality.  Media darling Shaquille O’Neal is famous for doing this.

These are just a few ways that public figures can endear themselves to reporters and audiences reading/viewing their interviews.  It’s important to remember that how one individual conducts an interview may not be the magic formula for everyone. By practicing with a media coach, athletes and other celebrities can determine what works for them and start the process of becoming a media darling that companies would love to have as their spokesperson.

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