Media Interview Briefing Template

A media interview briefing gives a spokesperson everything they need on one page: the interview details, its purpose, three key messages with supporting proof, likely and difficult questions with agreed answers, facts that must be stated correctly and what the audience should do next. Complete it for every interview and share it with the spokesperson in advance.

For full preparation guidance, see how to prepare a spokesperson for a media interview.

The template

Interview details

• Outlet and programme: [name]
• Journalist or presenter: [name, with notes on their style]
• Format: [live / recorded; radio / TV / print / podcast / online]
• Date, time and location: [details, or the remote link]
• Length: [minutes]
• Other guests: [names, if any]
• Audience: [who listens, watches or reads]

Purpose

• What we want the audience to understand or do after the interview: [one sentence]

Key messages

1. [Message one]. Proof: [fact, example or figure]
2. [Message two]. Proof: [fact, example or figure]
3. [Message three]. Proof: [fact, example or figure]

Likely questions

• [Question]. Suggested answer: [short answer connecting to a key message]
• [Question]. Suggested answer: [short answer]

Difficult questions

• [Question]. Agreed answer: [honest, approved answer]
• [Question]. Agreed answer: [honest, approved answer]

Facts to get right

• Names and titles: [list]
• Dates, figures and prices: [list]
• Pronunciations: [list]

Topics to avoid or handle carefully

• [Topic]. Approach: [for example, "this is still being finalised; we will share details on [date]"]

Call to action

• Where to send people: [website, booking link, date]

Logistics

• Contact on the day: [name, phone]
• Arrival time or connection test: [time]
• What to bring or wear: [notes]

Tips

1. Rehearse aloud with someone playing the journalist
2. Keep answers short and lead with the point
3. Never guess; offer to follow up instead
4. Send any promised information promptly afterwards

Related reading: how to write key messages people can understand and how to run a press conference journalists want to attend.

PR369's Strategic Communications and PR service includes media relations and spokesperson preparation. Email info@pr369.com with the interview and spokesperson. We will begin with a strategy conversation.