How to Handle a Cold Call from a Journalist

If a journalist called and asked you for an interview would you know what to do or say? Most people believe they have have to take a passive approach with the media, but this isn't the case. Here are six questions you should ask when you receive a cold call from a journalist.

1. Who are you?
Who is the reporter? What publication do they work for?

2. What has prompted you to ring me?
Why is the reporter calling you? What has prompted the story?

3. What is the story about?
What ‘angle’ is the reporter taking? What are they wanting from you? How much knowledge do they have on the subject?

4. What other sources are you contacting?
Who else the reporter is seeking comment from? This question will tell you a lot about the angle the journalist will be taking and their 'end game'.

5. Will there be any questions that require specific facts and figures?
If you can support your points with current and relevant facts and figures, you will gain credibility, respect and position yourself as future source.

6. What background information can I provide?
If you can make the journalist's job easier by providing background information you can potentially get a bigger mention in the story.