How to Write Killer Talking Points

By Hallie Shoffner

You or your colleague has an interview coming up with the local TV or radio station or a short speaking engagement at a press conference.

First, congratulations! This is a great way to get your message out there to a lot of people in just 2 – 5 minutes.

However, you have only 2 – 5 minutes to communicate a lot of information.

Enter really killer talking points… everything you do condensed into a compelling but easily digestible segment for the viewing/listening public.

1. Categorize your talking points into the following:

• Your mission as an organization.
• Your valuable programs (1 or 2 at most).
• What is the end result of your program (that is, why should the audience care?)
• Add a personal story of someone who has benefited from your programs. Pull on those heartstrings.
• Call to action. Make it clear what the audience should do to support your organization’s work: donate, volunteer, petition, etc.
• Clearly give your organization’s contact information. Provide a phone number and a website and repeat it if possible.

2. Format your talking points into question and answer. Usually, the anchor of the show will use those questions exactly if they are well-written. For example:

So, who is [Awesome Organization A]?

• Awesome Organization A is a nonprofit dedicated to providing employment opportunities to individuals with disabilities.

3. Bullet point the answer with no more than two or three bullets per question. Remember you’ve only got 2 – 5 minutes.

See also, Making Digital Content Work.

The Power of Words to Change the World

Hallie Shoffner is a public relations specialist with a Master in Public Service from the Clinton School of Public Service. Photo: Maky.Orel, Common Commons. 

Related FREE e-chapter, “Brand Your Cause” — click HERE!