Several years ago, I attended a protest that was organized by a dedicated, but inexperienced, activist. She very admirably turned her passion into action, but despite sending out many press releases, she was unprepared to speak to the media.

She knew what she was opposing, but when asked what she thought the solution was, she couldn’t give an answer. She hadn’t anticipated this basic question and couldn’t even improvise an answer. The frustrated reporter then asked the rest of us if anyone would like to give a statement. Instead of making a good first impression and cultivating a relationship with this reporter, she started off on the wrong foot and might not be taken seriously the next time she sends out a press release. Read about how to prepare for an interview at your next protest.