How to Do an Effective Television Interview
Preparation Can Help You Convey the Message with Confidence
Sharing expertise effectively through television is not always as easy as broadcasters make it look. In this case, what an interviewee doesn't know can ruin a big opportunity to effectively get a message across to a large audience.
Dressing for the Television Interview
Television cameras have advanced significantly in their capabilities in the last twenty-five years, but there is one thing that most still do not handle well: small stripes and busy, contrasting prints. When choosing what to wear for a television appearance, avoid any highly contrasting or overly busy pattern. Not only can these cause challenges for cameras, but they can detract from the message by creating a distraction for viewers. The same holds true for things like shiny jewelry and shimmery lip gloss.
Because studio lighting can be harsh, most skin tones will be flattered by solid, dark er tones which can make the skin appear warmer. Pure white and pure black can both appear too stark and should be avoided.
Effective Use of the Microphone
Whether the interview takes place in a studio or in some other location, chances are, the interviewee will be speaking into either a lavaliere microphone (which is generally clipped to the lapel or collar, so make sure there is one!) or a handheld microphone. In either case, there is no need to speak in anything other than a normal speaking voice.
These microphones are highly sensitive and will be positioned and tested to pick up the voice adequately. Leaning toward an outstretched microphone or speaking loudly are unnecessary and will only make the interviewee look unpracticed and nervous.
When answering a question, always look directly at the interviewer, never at the camera.
Calming Nerves Prior to a Television Interview
Although it is easier said than done, it is important to relax when on camera. Television cameras see and tend to magnify even minor nervous habits, such as toying with a pen, glancing around the room, throat clearing and repeating the word ‘um.’ Keep the hands loose and in the lap unless using them to emphasize a point.
Interviewees should remember that they have been asked to appear because of their authority on a given subejct. Leave the technical details to the reporter/interviewer and the technical crew and concentrate on the reason for the interview: to share specific knowledge.Direct Answers are Best During an InterviewNothing is more annoying to an interviewer or more confusing to viewers than a subject who does not answer the question he or she is asked. While an interviewee may have an important message to convey, she will come across as evasive if she does not make an attempt to answer the question asked, before using a transition to her own agenda such as “But I would also like to say…”
Remember that interviewers are human, too. The experience tends to go more smoothly when the interviewee treats his or her interviewer with respect. Few interviewers can fail to be flattered by “That’s an excellent question…”, especially if it is sincere.
With a little preparation, it is possible to smoothly and confidently convey a message to thousands of viewers and one's first television appearance will not be the last.
Effective Television Interviews can be simple
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