Use concrete, not abstract, words. Provide as much appropriate written background information as possible. Frequently, reporters will request such information in advance of the interview for use in researching the topic they plan to discuss with you. This is especially important with the print media. Reporters often rely heavily on background materials to compose a story.
Personal contact is the preferred method of communication.
If you are asked for information or opinions in an area in which you do not have sufficient experience or expertise, direct the reporter to a more appropriate source of information. If you promise a reporter additional printed information, or names and phone numbers of other sources, follow up immediately by telephone, mail or fax. When you have related all pertinent information, end the interview. In addition to the above, your interview will go more smoothly and your topic will be more readily accepted if you avoid certain pitfalls. Your job is to answer questions with well thought-out answers substantiated by facts.