Picture this: You sit down with a journalist from the local paper or news site. The journalist has done their research, they seem interested in the topic you’re discussing, and they listen intently. You have provided detailed and accurate responses. You’re feeling confident — this has been a breeze! But it isn’t over quite yet — before the conversation wraps up, the journalist has one last question. Almost always, this remaining question is something along the lines of, “Is there anything else you would like to add?”

“Is there anything else you would like to add?” represents a moment every source should listen for. It is a pivotal point in an interview. Don’t brush it off: This question represents one last opportunity to succinctly summarize key message points, reiterate your goals and make your insights truly shine.

Ensure every interview ends on a strong note by understanding how to respond to this question.

 

Define What Your Key Points Are

Preparation ahead of a media engagement is key. Identify what your key points are — what are the most important topics that you want to communicate to the public. Generally, sources outline three to five points they would like to highlight in an interview. There are a few questions to keep in mind when strategizing that can help provide direction:

  • What is relevant to the news organization about your company and its products/services?  
  • What aspects of your company and its operations do you want to emphasize? 
  • What is the ultimate goal of the interview from your standpoint, and the journalist’s standpoint?


Provide a Summary, Minus the Jargon

This final question of the interview provides an opportunity to reiterate these points and add in anything you might have missed. Oftentimes, direct quotes and soundbites are pulled from this final statement, therefore, an effective response summarizes these points in a fluid, straightforward manner. In order for the final moments of an interview to be successful for both the source and the journalist, the summary should be easy to understand.

A big mistake some sources might make is relying on industry jargon. Using complex terms and difficult-to-understand concepts might obscure your message, especially with a generalist reporter. Additionally, it is important to not assume what the journalist might be an expert in; keeping vocabulary simple and precise ensures both the journalist and their audience will understand exactly what you mean.

 

Recognize the Mutual Benefit Between the Source (You) and the Journalist

One of the most important aspects of any organization’s strategy is building a relationship with the media. Ideally, your organization is seen as an expert in the field, able to provide quick and thoughtful responses.

When a journalist asks “Is there anything else you would like to add?” think of the potential to strengthen this mutually beneficial relationship with the outlet. At this moment, you may want to assert the newsworthiness of the topic at-hand using hard data and deep knowledge of the outlet’s audience. Another option is providing the journalist with ideas for future articles that offer a mutual benefit.

A focused public relations team acts as a bridge between a company’s priorities and media outlets. Through media training and outlining a refined company message, our team of experienced public relations professionals can help you craft the perfect response to this common question.