Media experts employ tactics that will help them present their content in a credible manner without alienating their audiences.

Do you wonder sometimes how some business people with similar experience, background and businesses to you get to be the voice of their industry? You may ask “Why doesn’t the media come to me?” You may suffer from imposter syndrome; in that you don’t think your opinion is worthy of amplifying. You may believe that the media would only be interested in a business owner who oversees numerous staff and has a company with a multimillion-dollar turnover.

Well, it’s time to get over those self-imposed barriers. It’s easy to find excuses for not doing something but it takes courage to act and find the solutions – and the solutions are there for the taking.

How to be a media expert.

Here’s seven tactics that the most influential and successful media commentators employ to ensure they are asked for their opinion and perspective, time and time again.

1. They have an opinion backed by facts and evidence that can be called upon to support an argument. They deliver quality content.
2. They have a good content writer or engine that is in tune with current affairs, events and industry trends.
3. They have a true media agent that can support their opinions and place them with the media that suits them and their goals. Having a partner like Media Stable or a good agent is critical to their success.
4. They are regular and consistent. They are an asset to the media, who trust that they can deliver and perform.
5. They are polished performers and can deliver quality media engagements. They can be personable, funny, serious and seamlessly adapt to what the media and the occasion require. They’re able to read the mood of the story and presenters and deliver accordingly.
6. They own their opinions and space in their industry. If they weren’t putting their hand up to own their industry or their sector, they know that position will be taken by someone else.
7. They recognise the value of the relationship that they’ve built with the media. Once they’ve created a position of mutual trust and respect, they nurture and protect it.

So, it’s not easy, and it does take discipline and commitment to make sure that you are successful. With the right advice and the right support there really is nothing that you can’t do in media. Get your head around these tips, seek advice and there’s no reason you can’t be the ‘voice of your industry’.

If you need help presenting yourself to be a media expert in your industry, feel free to contact us so we can help you portray your message with your intended audience.

Nic Hayes is the Managing Director of Media Stable.