"An interview is an opportunity to get your message to the public," says Krinsky, a former television reporter who now leads Chicago media training sessions for groups and individuals (www.mediasuccessinc.com). "It's critical to go into a media interview prepared."

Here are '5 Media Training Tips for Staying On-Message' from Chicago media training expert Krinsky:
1. Streamline Your Messages.
What is it you're trying to say in an interview? Streamline your thoughts, making sure you can express your messages in three sentences.
2. Make Your Messages Brief and Believable.
They must be factual, able to be backed up with statistics or examples.
3. Use Plain English.
Avoid jargon and lingo. Make sure that what you're saying can be understood by someone who doesn't work in your industry.
4. Bridge Back To Your Messages.
Answer questions, and then, if possible, weave in your messages by bridging back to them.
5. Don't Get Drawn Off-Message.
It's up to you to stay on-message!

"Professional media training can teach you the skills you need to go into an interview with confidence, able to successfully communicate your company's message to the public," says Krinsky, whose Chicago media training sessions draw professionals ranging from business executives and physicians to public officials and authors.

Krinsky recommends media training even if a press interview is not in your immediate future. "You never know when the media might come calling," she says. "Make sure you're ready for whenever that might happen."

About Media Success, Inc.
Media Success, Inc. is a Chicago media training firm led by Alissa Krinsky, a veteran television anchor/reporter. Krinsky brings her insight as a media insider to help clients understand the way journalists really work, and to handle press interviews with confidence. For more information on Chicago media training sessions, please visit www.mediasuccessinc.com.