Smile, you're live! appearing as a guest on a television or radio show can be a breeze--if you prepare.You've been asked to be a guest on a television or radio program. The keys to success in communicating your message lie in your ability to prepare for and deliver it. By following a few simple interview do's and don'ts, you can effectively deliver your message to the masses, often for free, through the use of the broadcast medium. Before the interview, your preparation should focus on two key areas: background information on the media program and your message. GATHER BACKGROUND INFORMATION Know that your audience is the key to any effective presentation. Your participation in a television or radio interview should be an interactive presentation. First, learn about the reporter or interviewer and the format of the program. * Is the topic of discussion within their expertise? * Is the interviewer known for "attacking" guests, or is he amicable am·i·ca·ble adj. Characterized by or exhibiting friendliness or goodwill; friendly. [Middle English, from Late Latin am toward the people he has on? The format of the show may influence how you plan to deliver your message. * Is the show "live" or is it prerecorded pre·re·cord tr.v. pre·re·cord·ed, pre·re·cord·ing, pre·re·cords To record (a television program, for example) at an earlier time for later presentation or use. Adj. 1. ? Live interviews may require more time to adequately prepare your message. Taped interviews are a bit more forgiving--you can stop and start over, a luxury you don't have when you are live. * Will the show be accepting phone-in calls from the general public? * What are the demographics The attributes of people in a particular geographic area. Used for marketing purposes, population, ethnic origins, religion, spoken language, income and age range are examples of demographic data. of the show's audience? * What is the topic of the interview, and why was it chosen? DECIDE YOUR MESSAGE As the saying goes, think before you speak. Decide in advance what key points you want to convey. Designate des·ig·nate tr.v. des·ig·nat·ed, des·ig·nat·ing, des·ig·nates 1. To indicate or specify; point out. 2. To give a name or title to; characterize. 3. a few of your most persuasive examples to support the goal of your message. If it makes you feel more comfortable, outline these points on index cards and take them with you to the studio. Practice your "soundbites" before the interview. Arrive early so you can meet the interviewer before the show starts. DELIVER THE MESSAGE Fleishman-Hillard, a leading communications consulting firm Noun 1. consulting firm - a firm of experts providing professional advice to an organization for a fee consulting company business firm, firm, house - the members of a business organization that owns or operates one or more establishments; "he worked for a , offers the following tips for delivering an effective interview: 1 Don't over-answer. Short answers are better than long. 2 If you are unsure of an answer to a question, "bridge" to a related point you want to make. Or offer to assist the reporter in finding an answer. 3 Asked about a problem? Respond by talking about a solution. 4 Correct false charges or incorrect facts given by a reporter. 5 Frame your responses in a positive way. 6 Speak clearly. Avoid jargon jargon, pejorative term applied to speech or writing that is considered meaningless, unintelligible, or ugly. In one sense the term is applied to the special language of a profession, which may be unnecessarily complicated, e.g., "medical jargon. . 7 Be likable lik·a·ble also like·a·ble adj. Pleasing; attractive. lik  a·ble·ness, like .
8 Keep your cool. Ten seconds of losing your temper will last longer in the public's mind than an hour of insightful comments. 9 Never lie. 10 Be yourself! TELEPHONE TIPS If your interview is conducted via the telephone, you have the luxury of preparation time. If the deadline allows, ask the reporter if you can call him or her back. Additionally, you possess the ability to use your notes freely, which will allow you to remember any key message points or visual pictures. Still act as if you are in an interview, however, by following the previous interview tips. Be aware of the tone of your voice and ask for feedback to ensure that the interviewer has accurately received your message. TELEVISION INTERVIEWS Preparing for a television interview requires a visual side that radio and telephone interviews don't have. Here are a few tips: 1 Talk to the interviewer, not the camera. 2 Keep a pleasant expression and, when appropriate, smile. 3 Don't wear gaudy jewelry jewelry, personal adornments worn for ornament or utility, to show rank or wealth, or to follow superstitious custom or fashion. The most universal forms of jewelry are the necklace, bracelet, ring, pin, and earring. , overdone o·ver·done v. Past participle of overdo. Adj. 1. overdone - represented as greater than is true or reasonable; "an exaggerated opinion of oneself" exaggerated, overstated make-up Make-up The amount of deficiency when a cash flow or capital item is deficient. For example, an interest make-up relates to the interest amount above a ceiling percentage. or patterned clothes. Wear bright, solid colors an even color; one not shaded or variegated. See also: Solid . They look best on camera. 4 Speak and gesture as you normally would. Don't yell into the microphone. 5 Sit erect e·rect adj. 1. Being in or having a vertical, upright position. 2. Being in or having a stiff, rigid physiological condition. , but not completely straight. Lean slightly forward in the chair. 6 Hold your "interview attitude" until the camera is off. 7 What you say is just as important as how you say it. Face the microphones and lights. Say what you want to say, and say it confidently. Using television and radio can be a very effective way to get your name and message out there. By preparing a little beforehand, you can rest assured the exposure will be positive. POINTS TO REMEMBER BEFORE THE INTERVIEW: * Gather background information on the interviewer and the program's format and topic. * Prepare key message points and examples. * Practice delivering your message. DURING THE INTERVIEW: * Be positive and friendly. * Share your message confidently. * Keep your cool. * Dress appropriately. * Maintain your "interview attitude" from the start of the interview until the camera is off. Gene Rose is director of NCSL's Public Affairs Those public information, command information, and community relations activities directed toward both the external and internal publics with interest in the Department of Defense. Also called PA. See also command information; community relations; public information. Program. |
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