The Secret to Writing Great Media Interview Questions

Posted November 20, 2009 | Laura Christianson

SmokeWhen I was preparing a media kit for an author who’s written a book for addicts, I discovered the following question (which the author intends to be used in a media interview):

Your book is over 200 pages long; surely the addict will get bored and roll joints with the pages rather than read them?

I decided to use the question in the media kit because:

1. It made me laugh out loud

2. It’s controversial

3. It will definitely grab the audience’s attention

Too many media kits begin with the question: “Why did you write this book?”

Boooring!

The above question essentially asks why the author wrote the book, but it does so in an intriguing way.

When you write interview questions in preparation for a media appearance, get creative! Inject humor or a stiff dose of controversy, and you’ll keep listeners entertained.

Your turn. Imagine you’re preparing for an interview on a TV talk show. Write 5 entertaining questions that tout you, your products, and/or your services. Share your favorite one with us. It’s Friday; let’s have fun with this!

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8 responses to “The Secret to Writing Great Media Interview Questions”

  1. Katie says:

    Awesome points, Laura! You always have great content.

  2. Katie says:

    Awesome points, Laura! You always have great content.

  3. Katie says:

    Awesome points, Laura! You always have great content.

  4. Katie says:

    Awesome points, Laura! You always have great content.

  5. Adalia John says:

    This information will be helpful to me when I send out my media blast for my book that’s near completion.

    Thanks

  6. Adalia John says:

    This information will be helpful to me when I send out my media blast for my book that’s near completion.

    Thanks

  7. Adalia John says:

    This information will be helpful to me when I send out my media blast for my book that’s near completion.

    Thanks

  8. Adalia John says:

    This information will be helpful to me when I send out my media blast for my book that’s near completion.

    Thanks

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