So, you have a big media interview coming up. A lot is riding on what happens when you mic up and step in front of the camera. Are you ready?
You’re most likely familiar with these basic job interview preparation tips, regardless of which side of the interview table you sit. Preparing for a TV or radio interview isn’t all that different than getting ready for a big job interview.
Nor are the stakes. Ensure you’ll put your best foot forward by honing these six TV and radio hit strategies that really work.
1. Practice in Front of the Mirror
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You’ve heard this one before. You know it works. So why aren’t you doing it before every interview? It won’t take as long as you think to concisely run through all the points you intend to get across when your interviewer isn’t present. It’s more than worth the effort.
2. Trim Out the Excess Verbiage
Less is more, especially when you’re trying to avoid creating dead air on the radio. Do your best to cut out every word that isn’t absolutely essential to get your point across. We’re not just talking filler words like “um” and “ah,” but unnecessary modifiers and exclamations too. This interview with Kris Duggan, a serial entrepreneur and investor based in Silicon Valley, shows what’s possible when you trim the verbal fat.
3. Learn Everything You Can About Your Interviewer
Learn as much as possible about the person conducting the interview. Every fact you can glean is a clue about where the interview might go and what you’re most likely to be asked. On top of avoiding surprises, pre-knowledge increases your chances of turning the interview around on your inquisitor — which actually makes for good radio or TV.
4. Get the Questions in Advance (If You Can)
Not all interviewers are willing to play ball on this one. They’ll give you a general overview of the topics they plan to ask about, but not a detailed list of the questions themselves. Many times, they don’t know what they’re going to ask until they go on air. But it never hurts to ask.
5. Take Copious Notes
Can’t bring them with you into the studio? Doesn’t matter. Detailed notes about the topics you plan to discuss (or, even better, answers to specific questions) will help keep you on track and on point. If you’re preparing on short notice, read this guide to taking better shorthand notes.
6. Always Review the Tape
Your work isn’t done when the interview is. There’s always another opportunity around the corner. Once your interview hits the airwaves, listen or watch — again and again. Look for missed chances to get your point across, verbal tics that detract from your performance, or anything else that would be helpful to know before your next hit.
Practice Makes Perfect
Your first media interview will not be your best media interview. That’s okay, because practice makes perfect. Each of these strategies is proven to improve your poise and polish in front of the camera, behind the microphone, or over a steaming mug of coffee.
You know what needs to be done. Now, it’s up to you to do it.