Full discloure:  “Professional baseball fan” is not on my list of hobbies or traits. I feel like I should, but I do not have a favorite team, and I do not watch baseball until the final games (or game) of the World Series.

Having said that, I am a fan of this Fortune interview with Major League Baseball’s commissioner, Bud Selig. The interview published in the April 2011 issue, and it included several elements that I highlight when preparing a client to speak with a reporter:

1. There is no such thing as “off the record.” Assume that everything you say and do will be published or aired.

2. Be honest.

3. Keep your answers short and to the point.  The more you go on, the higher the chances are that you will say or do something that should not be shared.

3. Never say “no comment.” Mr. Selig says that he should not comment on one of the questions, but he explains why.  This is not the same as “no comment.”

4. Remember, you are the expert. You have been asked to do an interview because you konw your stuff.  In fact, you probably know it like the back of your hand. Do not sweat it.

5. If you happen to not know an answer, just say that you do not know. Do not guess.

Feel free to leave a comment or email me at chris@dardetpr.com with questions or to share your favorite interview examples.

Be well,

Chris