A media training course is the one real way that you and your team can prepare to deliver effective and impactful statements when under the pressure of a broadcast interview, be that on radio or television.
Often in these interviews you can forget your key talking points, are asked challenging questions or find it difficult to tell your story effectively? Broadcast interviews also come in many different formats. There can be in a TV or radio studio, down the line interviews, a doorstep interview a sofa style chat, a podcast tyle interview or on an online platform like zoom. They can also be outdoors or indoors on a greenscreen all which have their own unique perspectives and challenges.
Broadcast Interview Tips
Here are some tips for handling broadcast interviews.
- Preparation is key – whatever style of interview you are facing, preparation is always the key to success. Never be tempted to wing it, and always do your homework in advance. Spend the time reviewing
- If you are in a studio, always assume microphones and cameras are on. Many spokespeople have fallen victim to a ‘hot-mic’.
- Lose the distractions. Remove loose change from your pockets. Don’t wear narrow stripes, checks and patterns on TV because they can cause a strobing effect. Shiny suits should also be avoided. Bald, like me? Use a little powder on your head.
- Warm up your voice. It might feel weird, but reading aloud a children’s book before going on air is a good way of doing this. Use it to vary tone and practice using pauses for emphasis.
- Drink water and make sure you have some to hand.
- Consider the interview location. Optics are crucial and impact how the audience perceives you. Make sure nothing in the background contradicts what you want to say.
- Be interesting. If you are going to do an interview, you must have something to say. A spokesperson who offers an unusual opinion, original insight or fresh angle on an existing problem is likely to get more air time.
- Speak clearly and concisely. In a broadcast interview, shorter answers, around 30-45 seconds, help create the conversational tone spokespeople should strive for.
- Injecting passion, energy and enthusiasm into your voice is vital for drawing the audience in and gaining their interest and excitement. A dull, flat, monotone delivery makes it unlikely the audience will listen to what you have to say.
- Avoid jargon and acronyms – they will confuse the audience.
- Have a rehearsal. Ask a colleague to put you through your paces with a mock interview and practice how you would answer potentially tricky questions. Record yourself on a smartphone discussing a few talking points.
Remember, nerves are normal. But there are steps you can take to help you overcome interview anxiety and ensure you effectively communicate. For more information on interview training contact the Hawkeye team today.