You've got the spotlight and piqued the media's attention. Now what? Before you show up to an interview, read these tips…

Make yourself available
Journalists tend to have tight deadlines, so return their calls promptly and remember it's in your best interest to be cordial.

Body language is vital.
Do not fidget; it implies nervousness (the Woody Allen character works for Woody Allen alone). Do not cross your arms across your chest, it says, "I'm not receptive to what you're saying." Keep your torso and arms relaxed, and remember to breath—you'd be surprised how many people forget. The idea is to come across as a confident and credible person.

Stick to your key message
Summarize your key message into one sentence. Journalists like good quotes and good sound bites—give them one. Don't go off on tangents when you're asked a question. Be concise and get comfortable with your talking points.

Aim for a conversational tone, no one likes talking to robots.
You may have received the questions ahead of time and prepared your answers, but do not recite sentences. It's a conversation, not a monologue.

Watch out for fillers
People pepper conversations with "um," "uh, "like." Don't.

Prepare for the tough questions
A reporter's job is to dig. If the reporter is any good, they'll uncover all the skeletons in your closet or your company's closet before the interview. Be prepared with answers and stick to your company's message.

Steer clear of fancy jargon
No, you won't sound smarter if you throw around fancy terms, you'll just alienate your audience. Enunciate, relax, use analogies, and appear passionate about your subject.

Do not stonewall reporters
If they ask a question, and you give them slippery answers, they'll likely keep poking and prodding.

You are on the record.
Never lose your cool in front of a reporter, because although the cameras might not be turned on, the reporter is listening. Get into character as soon as you're in the reporter's presence. This isn't Hollywood, but all reporters like a scoop, and the reporter's idea of scoop might not be yours.

Practice, practice, practice
In front of a mirror, in front of family and friends—deliver your speech and key messages.

Expect occasional misquotes
Journalists make mistakes and may misquote you on occasion. Since you can't control the interview, take it in stride.