How to prepare for a broadcast interview January 10, 2019

How to prepare for a broadcast interview

Speaking with the media can be nerve-racking. Doing so on television or on the radio can be even scarier. Broadcast interviews offer a unique opportunity to deliver messages to a wide audience quickly and simultaneously.

With just a little bit of preparation, you can overcome your anxiety and effectively communicate your company’s story. Below are just a few of the basic tips that can help prepare you for your broadcast interview.

Wardrobe

Keep wardrobe simple and professional. Avoid heavy design patterns and opt for bright colors that pop on camera. Check out some of the popular TV morning shows to see what the hosts are currently wearing and what looks best for ideas.

Plan your key points

Before going into an interview, you want to make sure you have your key talking points prepared. Think about the two or three things you want to make sure an audience remembers after your interview. Interviews can wander, so having a few talking points can help you stay on track.

Know the Interviewer and your Audience

Who is going to see and hear you; what’s the most effective way to communicate your message to them?

Vocal Inflection

Nothing kills a good interview quicker than a monotonous tone of voice. This is true on both TV and radio. Speaking in a flat tone of voice makes it difficult for the reporter to identify the sound bites and key points you are making in the editing room.

Your tone should reinforce the idea that you are excited, passionate, concerned, engaged – in other words, you want to back up what you are saying with how you are saying it. You shouldn't conduct the interview in hyper-drive, of course, but when you have a point that is important to you, your tone of voice should reflect it.

Anticipate difficult questions

During virtually every interview, you’ll will probably be asked challenging or complex questions. When you respond, you’ll want to answer these difficult questions clearly and completely. If you feel the anchor is being unfair or inaccurate, don’t get angry. Simply answer the question and deliver your points.

Media training course is essential for spokespeople to prepare them for media interviews, to ensure: the delivery of key messages, preservation of an organisation’s reputation and avoidance of common pitfalls.

Not sure how to prepare for a media job interview? London TFE offers media courses that will prepare and build your confidence to run a successful media campaign. Contact us to find out more information on the digital media course we offer.