Media Training for Athletes
Public speaking is one of the most underrated skills for athletes (collegiate and professional). Public relations, media training, and general public speaking/engagement are probably not your highest priority right now. And, I get it. But, it is vital because your words (if you’re an agent/manager - the words of your client) have so much power. Words have the power to build relationships, inspire others, create connections, or (to be transparent) destroy futures. Just being honest. So, always be mindful of the narrative you are communicating.
QUICK RECAP: DRILL #2 - POWER
There is so much power in words. Creating and controlling your narrative is something you want to establish very early on in your career. Work diligently to find your method and comfort when presenting yourself to the public. Word of advice - always remain honest, accountable, and transparent when communicating. Whether it is media, coaching staff, team owners, or brand representatives - your word is your bond.
That’s where media training comes in! Interviewing (whether it is with a team or a journalist) doesn’t always come naturally. So, just like anything else it is always better to train for it. Proper media training can be a game changer for your overall brand delivery. When you are being asked questions at rapid fire, it is normal to feel vulnerable. Going through interview drills adds that extra layer of confidence and security so you know that you are in control of every interview because your responses have the power to shape that conversation, your career, and your future.
Media training is not just about answering questions or giving interviews. It is about understanding the media landscape, the goals and expectations of journalists, and the impact of your messages on your audiences. Media training should help you develop your media strategy, identify your key messages, and craft your stories. It should also teach you how to prepare for interviews, the positive use of body language and voice, and how to avoid common pitfalls. No matter your current relationship with the media/public speaking, you cannot avoid the interactions. They are the supporting arm in communicating your narrative. View them as an ally to your goals and not an obstacle.
Any media engagement is an opportunity for you:
Showcase the 360 athlete
Off-season and/or off-field/court activities
Build relationships with media personnel (local and national)
Here are a few things to keep in mind when you’re walking into an interview:
#1 Treat others how you want to be treated
I’m sure you weren’t expecting that one. It’s something I’m sure we have all heard but I want to put it in the context of every interaction is just as important as the interview. People are watching and paying attention. Therefore, if you are having an in-person interview, be mindful of how you enter and exit the interview room/space. Did you speak? Not only to the interviewer but to their assistant and/or camera personnel. You want people to have a positive interaction because whether it should or not, it does affect how they share your narrative. We are all human. While they are there to capture what you say; they’ll never forget how you made them feel. So even if you’re not in the best mood, be engaged and be welcoming. I advise my clients to take ten (yes 10) deep breaths before any interview. This gives your brain and body a moment to pause and shift focus. This is scientifically proven. :) Make sure you’re treating others how you would want to be treated.
#2 Talk in Soundbites
Whether the interview is print or broadcast, live or taped, some editing will be done at some stage post-interview process. To keep the interview in focus and make everyone’s lives easier, the best way to ensure your messaging is communicated properly is to talk in soundbites. The rule of thumb is to have three (3) key messages prepared. These talking points are to provide you and the interviewer with a summary. Similar to an elevator pitch when interviewing with a coach, you want to know you’re audience and have concise points you want them to receive as a takeaway. Also, this helps you by helping you create parameters and not veer off-track, overshare, or misrepresent the overall message.
Bonus: If you are an “um”-er. It’s okay. Practice makes perfect. The more pauses you take in between thoughts the better.
#3 Stay in control
You may have heard the phrase “Your Response is Your Responsibility.” This is true and it can also help you stay in control when engaged in an interview. When I say control, I mean the direction of the interview. How you respond to the questions typically helps guide the conversation. Therefore, in an interview, it is your responsibility to respond in a way that favors your overall goal.
#4 Prepare for the curve balls
Whether an engagement is planned or not, always be prepared and expect the unexpected. If you are asked a controversial or uncomfortable question, the first thing you should do is take a pause. Don’t be quick to respond and allow yourself a few moments to decide how/if you’re going to address the question by inserting a bridge. Some examples of bridge statements are:
“That’s a good question.”
“Thank you for that question.”
“That’s a complex question.”
If you decide to respond, do so by not reiterating or affirming any negative points inside the question, frame your response in a way that supports your key messaging (you can repeat your key messaging if applicable), avoid any bold predictions or statements, and be okay with saying “I’m not sure how to address X.” If you decide now to respond, do not dodge. Acknowledge the question and respectfully decline to respond.
Just answer/respond to the best of your ability. You’re human.
#5 Be mindful of your body language
This tip is very underrated in all aspects of public speaking. Body language is very important because how your body is positioned should support your messaging.
When Standing
If you are standing, RELAX! Stand with your arms at the side or one hand in a pocket. Whichever seems natural. Planting one foot slightly in front of the other will help you avoid swaying. Should you gesture, do so naturally, not expansively. Keep gestures small and in front of you, and avoid sudden body movement.
When Sitting
Lean forward slightly. Hands in your lap is always great. Avoid obvious signs of discomfort or nervousness, e.g., foot tapping, clenched fists, shifting back and forth.
Overall
Remember, you’re talking to the person, not the camera(s) (unless told otherwise). So clarify where they want you to look beforehand.
Make your expression match your words and avoid nodding your head to indicate that you understand or are ready to answer the question. This can inadvertently convey agreement with the questioner’s premise when you don’t mean to do so. Remain neutral in tone. However, it’s okay to be animated and show personality when necessary.
#6 Practice
As I’ve stated… practice makes perfect. Work with someone you trust to test out your comfortability with answering questions. You should also practice by yourself in a mirror, but it’s also good to have someone give you feedback.
If you as an athlete, an agent/management team, or a combine athlete performance facility have not embedded media training in your NFL draft plan(s) and need additional assistance with doing so (or have general questions) reach out to us at create@brandsbybry.com.
Your brand is your voice. We are happy to partner with you to find the right pitch for the perfect S.O.N.G. (Success Of Nobel Greatness).
