Embarrassing silence Beware of the reporter who remains silent, encouraging you to ramble on and on. Once you feel you've answered the question, stop. If you continue, you may end up providing them ammunition with which to shoot you. There are several things you can do to fill an embarrassing silence. If you feel the reporter is setting you up, chances are you're right.
Reporters often think they know the answers before they've asked the questions.
Let them know that you are the expert. It's not uncommon for reporters to ambush a news source outside their office or home. Respond as if the reporter had called you on the phone. You might ask what the story is about and when they need the information. Tell the reporter when you or someone else will be able to get back to them.