Media Training: The Ambush Interview…
Sunday, October 29th, 2006When it comes to media training, there is an excellent video online for your clients and executives to view.
This past Friday, Lynne Cheney, wife of Vice President Dick Cheney, appeared on CNN’s Situation Room hosted by Wolf Blitzer. What was billed as an interview to promote her new children’s book turned into a media trainer’s worst nightmare, an “ambush interview.”
Putting political affiliations and views aside, media trainers, clients and executives alike can glean valuable information as they watch how Ms. Cheney handles one tough question after another from Mr. Blitzer, and maintain her composure throughout.
However, media trainers, clients and executives can learn even more by watching how Ms. Cheney took control of the interview.
This turned into a situation where a veteran broadcaster lost control of an interview on national TV. Granted, Ms. Cheney is media savvy, she hosted CNN’s Crossfire at one time, but it was amazing to watch Ms. Cheney ask tough questions of Mr. Blitzer, and force Mr. Blitzer to cut the interview short.
Interviews don’t often conclude with the interviewer answering questions from the interviewee. But when it does, it’s one interview to add to the media training tape so others can watch and learn.
You don’t have to agree with what they say, but there is a lot to be learned from this interview.
Bookmark to:
