How to Prepare to be Interviewed
As an ex-BBC broadcaster, hosting my own radio and TV show for years, I was always the one doing the 'digging' on my contributors and writing the briefs on them. This could have been on The Spice Girls, explorers such as Sir Ranulph Fiennes, chefs such as Gordon Ramsay, and conductors including Sir Simon Rattle. No brief was ever the same however the process was always similar and formulaic. Scrupulous research and getting into the habit of leaving no stone unturned.
There is something comfortable about being in the driving seat and steering the interview and that is what I am used to. However, I'm now working in Wales, recording a feature for BBC Radio on the French Horn player Felix Klieser and have been asked to be guest on a TV show I used to present on to talk about Felix' visit to Wales, as well as my life in Hong Kong. This is new territory to me! The broadcasting shoe is now on the other foot and I’m preparing myself to be interviewed, as well as preparing to interview Felix. This is in fact something that needs as much preparation as being the anchor and I thought I would share my top tips and hints with you.
The first thing you need to consider when preparing for a TV show is to think about what you want to say. It might sound painstakingly obvious, but you have limited time, so clarity is everything. Define your 'headline.' What's the single most important point you want people to remember after watching the interview.
Think about supporting points. Use stories to make them memorable and vivid. Also, try to anticipate likely questions. Prepare concise answers and practice bridging them back to your key point. Consider your use of language. Rambling is not an option on a live TV interview! Short, punchy answers will stick in a viewer’s mind.
Your delivery and how you articulate is key. Use pauses to grab the viewer's attention. Silence on TV makes people lean in. Keep your energy light and bright. Cameras can make you seem flatter than you seem. Do you tend to use filler words such as 'um', 'you know.' Try to avoid theses if possible. The odd one is fine however they are noticeable when broadcasting. Why not practice with a friend beforehand, or do a mock interview and record it on your phone.
What you wear on camera counts! Avoid tiny patterns or stipes and dots. Also stay clear of overly bright white and black. Solid jewel tones work best. Theses come across as vibrant without being distracting. Blue, especially navy, is a classic choice and and conveys the feeling of trust. Pastels, and some bright tones like pink and yellow can look striking. The most important thing is that you feel confident in your outfit choice.
Be yourself when it comes to body language and don't overthink it. Engage fully with the presenter and keep your eyes on this person. You need to come across as approachable and warm so be sure to milk that beautiful smile!
Finally, it's only natural to be nervous prior to a TV appearance. Remember to rehearse beforehand. Gather as much information as possible about the show and the angle of the interview and request a chat with a researcher prior to going on air. Focus on what you wish the viewer to hear, not yourself. Imagine you're speaking directly to one person who needs to hear your clear and concise message. Last but not least ... enjoy it! This is your time to shine!
