mediainterview

mediainterview (or media interview) is a professional exchange in which a journalist questions a person in order to inform an audience, record statements, or scrutinize responses. Interviews are common across print, radio, television, and online formats and may take place one-on-one, in a panel, or as part of a live event. The interview can serve as a primary news source, a vehicle for feature storytelling, or a method of accountability.

Participants typically include the interviewer, who asks questions and guides the conversation, and the interviewee, who provides answers, explanations, or evidence. Preparation involves researching the subject, identifying key messages, anticipating questions, and planning for quotable statements or sound bites. Ethical interview practice emphasizes accuracy, fair attribution, avoiding deception, and deciding whether remarks are on the record or off the record.

Formats vary from concise hard-news exchanges to in-depth feature conversations, conducted in person, by phone, or via video. Techniques include asking open-ended questions, using follow-ups, bridging to important points, and keeping the discussion clear and concise. Interviewers may challenge misstatements and verify information, while interviewees may seek to stay on message and manage pace.

Impact and risks: mediainterviews inform the public but can shape narratives or influence reputations. Risks include misquotation, selective editing, or overstatement. Responsible coverage relies on clear sourcing, transparency about context, and corrections when errors occur.