A solid approach to media training, complete with a good introduction to the subject, sound strategies for a wide variety of media encounters, and effective tools and techniques anyone can use in a media interview.
John Barnett, Public Relations and Social Media Consultant Vox Optima, LLC [A] tested, research-supported model of proven techniques which have been successful both in national and international arenas, and which help interviewees prepare for media interviews. Chapters provide common rules ( never look at the camera ), discuss the basics of delivery and voice tones, tell how to handle hostile questions, and most of all, show how to stay in control of the interview no matter what direction it should take. The result is a powerful survey, highly recommended for any who would participate in media interviews prepared to field any and all hurdles encountered in the process.
Diane Donovan Donovan's Literary Services Robert Taylor shares a lifetime of experience training spokesmen for media interviews in this one book. It's a treasure trove of information, examples and guidance. Quite simply, if you love or fear giving media interviews you will learn something from Robert's expert advice.
Vickie Sheriff former Official Spokesman for the UK Prime Minister Robert Taylor's book provides a thorough and comprehensive approach to media training. Full of good guidance, smart thinking and useful examples, this book demonstrates Robert's in-depth knowledge and experience in the world of media and is a must-read for anyone preparing for a media interview.
Henrietta Mackenzie, Associate Director Edelman Robert has produced a highly authoritative yet very accessible guide for anyone involved in media interviews. Whether you are a first-time interviewee, a corporate communications professional or a training manager, you will find the book's detailed advice and examples reassuring and invaluable. Robert has trained a number of our clients, all of whom have enjoyed and benefitted from the experience. His techniques have prepared them for successful encounters, including interviews on BBC Radio 4's Today programme and with The Sunday Times' Business section. Robert is a genuine master of his craft.
Marc Cornelius, Founder and Managing Director 80:20 Communications This is a genuinely informed and practical guide. Robert starts - and ends - with a reminder that planning for media interaction is an opportunity, rather than a threat, assuming considerable planning and preparation have gone beforehand. All of which is set out with clarity and precision in the chapters in-between. The sections on tone of voice, body language and personal presentation, and messaging, go to the heart of how media performance - good, or bad - can impact a brand. Today's news isn't gone tomorrow: we're reminded that it will be available online and will influence a brand's future for decades. Robert's crystal-clear writing style, along with the exercises ending each chapter, will give any spokesperson or executive the confidence to develop constructive relationships with important influencers across all media channels.
Donald Johnson, Head of Brand Strategy National Grid plc Robert Taylor is one of the few trainers in the market who can call upon real-world experience, supporting theory and anecdotal evidence to make his case. Everything in these pages rings true. And he writes well, too... This book will be of great interest to students and practitioners.
Michael Johnson, former editor of International Management magazine and director of McGraw-Hill World News Robert's coaching and techniques make sure we get the most out of every opportunity to tell the world what we do and why it's so important.
Jonathan Ludford, National Communications Manager Canal & River Trust 'He knows his stuff', one senior official of the Ukrainian government told me after media training with Robert Taylor in Kyiv. I have no doubt he would have been even more eloquent in describing Robert's professionalism, had he read Media Interview Techniques. The book is both comprehensive and reader-friendly. A must-read for spokespeople, not to mention anyone striving for excellence in giving interviews.
Dmytro Kuleba, Ambassador-at-Large for Strategic Communications Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Robert Taylor writes with authority on a subject he knows inside out and with the same easy style you get in his face-to-face workshops. Robert's model works equally for a private sector client, public sector body or a not-for-profit, and has become a core part of our organization's media training programme. I'd certainly encourage any press officer to read Media Interview Techniques before prepping their spokesperson for media calls.
Krysteen Ormond, Public Relations & Media Manager Falkland Islands Government I have worked with Robert for many years, delivering courses for diplomats through to management consultants and chief executives of not-for-profits. This book is the culmination of his career as a specialist media trainer. Undertaking a media interview is always challenging but these straightforward and down-to-earth hints and tips make that challenge less daunting, indeed almost something to look forward to. I particularly enjoyed the many anecdotes he includes, many of which are classic examples, which serve to illustrate what you should and what you should not do when tackling a media interview. An entertaining read, combined with sound practical advice, ranging from how to construct a message sandwich through to ideas about posture, breathing and relaxation.
Caroline Black FCIPR, Managing Director Caroline Black & Associates Robert Taylor's book is a must for all those who are facing the media. Packed with tried and trusted tactics and dozens of examples from real-life situations, this is an essential read both for newcomers and experienced spokespeople wanting to stay ahead of the game.
Cathie Burton, Spokesperson, Head of Communication & Media Relations Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe Robert Taylor is as thorough as they come and this guide reflects his detailed approach.
Jessica Dixon, Director Spider PR Robert Taylor is an excellent media trainer. Of course, nothing beats having him in person, but this book encapsulates his lessons perfectly and is a very useful reference tool for everyone who wants to present themselves well in front of journalists.
Charlie Pryor, Director Leidar Robert Taylor s book is a must for all those who are facing the media. Packed with tried and trusted tactics and dozens of examples from real-life situations, this is an essential read both for newcomers and experienced spokespeople wanting to stay ahead of the game.
Cathie Burton, Spokesperson, Head of Communication & Media Relations Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe Robert Taylor s book provides a thorough and comprehensive approach to media training. Full of good guidance, smart thinking and useful examples, this book demonstrates Robert s in-depth knowledge and experience in the world of media and is a must-read for anyone preparing for a media interview.
Henrietta Mackenzie, Associate Director Edelman He knows his stuff, one senior official of the Ukrainian government told me after media training with Robert Taylor in Kyiv. I have no doubt he would have been even more eloquent in describing Robert s professionalism, had he read Media Interview Techniques. The book is both comprehensive and reader-friendly. A must-read for spokespeople, not to mention anyone striving for excellence in giving interviews.
Dmytro Kuleba, Ambassador-at-Large for Strategic Communications Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Robert s coaching and techniques make sure we get the most out of every opportunity to tell the world what we do and why it s so important.
Jonathan Ludford, National Communications Manager Canal & River Trust