Tuesday, November 18, 2008

I know my rights!

When you do a media interview, you have certain rights that are not always mentioned to you in the rush to put you on air. All broadcasters will give you the right to know:

* the programme title and timing
* the style and approach of the show
* whether the interview is pre-recorded or live
* whether there are other interviewees
* what precedes your interview
* how you will be introduced
* the first question (sometimes there is no time to establish this)
* the length of your interview

You will also have the right of reply to correct any factual errors, even after transmission.

However, there are some things that you do not have the right to do, such as:

* decide where you appear in the running order
* reject anyone from a panel discussion
* receive a list of questions in advance
* specify topics that are not to be discussed (unless there are legal issues)
* give approval to, or reject the interview before it is transmitted

Make sure that you know the rules of the media game before you step into the studio.

No comments: