22/09/2025
BRUTAL LESSONS ABOUT MEDIA INTERVIEWS ๐ค
In real life, we have had failures, near misses and successes that allow us to suggest "simple" sounding but powerful reminders for anyone who is communicating with a large audience. (Hint: Town Halls, keynote or media interviews.)
#1 BE GRATEFUL FOR THE PLATFORM
โข Their outlet is a platform for you to share your important message. Your discomfort is a small price to pay for the prize of an audience who get to hear your story.
#2 KEY MESSAGES โค THREE MESSAGES
โข Even at short notice, jot down your key messages on paper. Know WHY you are doing the interview; Know WHY you choose to do this work. (But donโt take the paper into a TV interview. Why? Because you will inevitably look down โ even when you know the answer!)
#3 WHATโS THE PROBLEM?
โข If I donโt understand the problem, I wonโt care about the solution.
โข If I truly understand the problem, the solution is almost obvious.
#4 SHORTER, SIMPLER, BETTER
โข Is there a shorter, simpler way you can explain things?
#5 MOVE YOUR HANDS (OR YOU WONโT MOVE THE AUDIENCE)
โข Up your energy/engagement level.
โข Breathe. (Your answer should be short enough to deliver on one breath)
โข Smile (even on radio).
โข Make eye contact (even on radio). If it is down the line, imagine making eye contact!
โข Never look at camera (unless they specifically ask you to).
#6 ASSUME THE MIC IS ALWAYS ON
โข If you donโt want it broadcast, donโt say it (until long after you have left the premises!).
โข This includes when youโre presenting on stage and youโre wearing a lapel mic!
๐ Which one resonates with you most?
