Essential Guidelines to Ace Your TV Interview

Appearing on television can be a fantastic opportunity to share your organization’s message, but for many, the thought of appearing on live television can be daunting, especially if it's your first time. Don’t worry. We've got key tips to help you ace the interview and bring credibility to your brand.

Arrive on Time: Showing up early is crucial to helping you relax. It will reduce your stress and that of the newscast producer if you are on time and well prepared for your live interview. 

Develop Key Messages and Practice Them Beforehand: 

Develop your key messages ahead of time and then review and practice them several times before arriving at the station. Ask yourself, “What do I want to communicate?,” and then organize your notes by topic. Practicing ahead of time will help you banish your jitters and have you delivering your message with clarity and focus.

Warm Up: Before the interview, give those vocal cords a warmup by humming, saying the alphabet or saying your answers out loud. Moving your lips will help to reduce nervous tension around the mouth and throat. 

Connect with Your Interviewer: Think of the interviewer as a friend. Make eye contact, smile when appropriate and converse as if you have known them for a long time. This helps create a more natural and relaxed vibe, which translates well on screen. 

Speak Clearly and Avoid Jargon: Avoid technical terms or industry jargon that might confuse your audience. Keep your answers brief and conversational to keep the interview flowing.

Dress for Success: Choose solid colors that make you feel confident. Avoid busy patterns or distracting prints. Remember to take a peek at your shoes, as they can sometimes be visible. Also, steer clear of wearing clunky jewelry that could interfere with the sound quality. 

Follow up After The Interview: Send a short thank you note or email to the interviewer or the producer who set up the interview to express your gratitude for the opportunity. A little gratitude goes a long way when you’re being considered for future appearances.

By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure a successful and impactful television interview.

Still feeling uneasy? We have a team of experts with decades of live television experience. Reach out today at lang@plpgglobal.com to learn how we can help you and your organization ace your next interview.