As a former broadcast journalist, I know only too well how
daunting radio interviews can be for most people. During my earlier
career, I realised that even the most senior leaders have been reluctant
to go on-air, worried that they’ll face a ‘Jeremy Paxman’ style of
interview and be viewed in the wrong light.
Although radio interviews might seem like a scary experience, they
really are straightforward – once you know how to tackle them
effectively. And because radio publicity is worth its weight in gold,
it's important you learn the basics of giving a successful on-air
interview, that's whether it's live or pre-recorded. Here are 10 tips to
ensure you succeed:
1. Find out the location
Firstly, find out where the interview is going to take place. Will it
be in the studio, over the phone or will a journalist come to see you?
If you have to go to the studio, make sure you allow plenty of time to
get there. If a journalist is coming to see you or you’re giving a
telephone interview, you’ll need a quiet room so there are no background
noises or distractions.
2. Live or pre-recorded?
Next, ask the journalist if the interview is going to be pre-recorded
or live. Both types of interview have their own set of challenges so
it’s important to know the difference. Pre-recorded will give you some
leeway to make mistakes as you’ll be able to repeat your answers, if
necessary. Live is when you will literally have no second chances.
3. Do some research
Find out more about the interview and your audience. Is it purely for
the news bulletins or will it be part of a topical show? How long will
the interview take place? Who listens to the station? You’ll need to
know the nature of the interview, your audience and how much time you
have to ensure you’re fully prepared.
4. Be prepared for other interviewees
Consider whether anyone else will be participating in the interview.
Will they have the same views as you or will they disagree? Think about
the criticisms you might face and how you might respond positively to
each one.
5. What questions?
You are within your rights to ask the journalist beforehand the type
of questions he/she will be asking. That way, you can thoroughly prepare
your answers and avoid being ‘put on the spot’. If you are caught out
during the interview, simply say: “I’m sorry, I’m not in a position to
answer that but what I can say is…” and then repeat one of your main key
points.
6. Stick to your key messages
Next, write three key messages or points that you would like to make
during your interview. Keep repeating these throughout to ensure your
message gets heard.
7. Avoid nervous habits
Most journalists will require ‘sound bites’ – small clips of audio to
play during their news bulletins – so make sure you start each sentence
clearly, avoiding any nervous habits like ‘ums’, 'errs' and ‘ahs’.
8. Stay hydrated & comfortable
Keep a glass of water to hand and don’t shuffle any paperwork. Avoid
tight-fitting clothing and sit comfortably and upright with your feet
flat on the floor. This will help you to feel and sound relaxed.
9. Be yourself
Be friendly and open. Use informal, everyday language. Speak as
though you were talking to just one person and don’t use any jargon.
Keep to the point and avoid waffling.
10. Keep your cool
Don’t lose your temper or sound defensive. Simply stick to positive
statements and never resort to negative attacks. Most importantly, relax
and enjoy yourself.
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