Step 1: Preparation
- Know the interviewer and the context or subject of the interview
- Know your audience (i.e. business readers vs. soccer moms)
- Research the journalist and the publication (listen to the radio show or read previous articles).
- Consider and write down in advance your three key messages – the three main points you want to get across to the reporter, and then practice those.
- Anticipate questions.
- Review your business marketing materials.

Step 2: Levity, Laughter, and Lightness
- Let your personality shine through.
- Relax and have fun, but avoid jokes.
- Keep it conversational but factual.
- Remember, this is your chance to build a relationship with the journalist. Be yourself.

Step 3: Agenda
- Prepare key points in advance
- Bring your own agenda topics
- Avoid just answering questions – the the reporter does not ask questions that directly address things you want to talk about, bridge to your key points.

Step 4: Never…
- Say “No Comment” -instead offer “what I can tell you is…”.
- State unsubstantiated claims.
- Make disparaging comments about competitors products.
- State personal recommendations, stick to the facts.
- Argue with the reporter or lose your cool. If a reporter asks tough questions you have not prepared for, let the reporter know you can get back to him/her with more information.

Your biography will help promote your image to customers and the community. Typically, a biography can be anywhere from a few paragraphs to a page in length. Your biography is a condensed version of your career history and is used to highlight your relevant experience to establish your credibility.

Your biography will inspire confidence in your abilities and differentiate you from your competitors. Unlike a resume, contact information, dates of employment and other specific information are omitted on a bio. Keep in mind your biography will be used for networking and for providing additional information to local media.

How To Write Your Own Bio

Before writing your BIO, answer a few of the following questions:

• What is your business philosophy?
• How did you start in your area of business?
• What is your relevant experience?
• What are your goals and/or successes?
• Do you have any relevant training or education?
• Can you provide background information on your business?
• What sets you apart from your competitors?
• What is your personal education, or what are your certifications?
• What is something unique or personal about your background?

As you write, think about your audience. Who will be reading your biography? If you are writing the biography primarily for a journalist, the emphasis may be slightly different than if you are writing it to entice customers to your business.

Once you complete the biography, the last thing to do is verify the accuracy of your facts and information. Accuracy is a critical component to your credibility.