So what is the number one fear among Americans? It’s not spiders, or even death.
It’s public speaking.
Most folks want no part of the camera, the forum or the success that
could come with handling both. To me, it’s a big mistake to shy away from the
spotlight. You’re actually lucky if you get it.
As I like to say…
“People should die for the
opportunity”
Speaking success isn’t a given. Those who are good at it … work at it. And those who are being interviewed with
regularity pay attention to the results.
The communication of a message requires time, practice
energy, and…. above all… experience. It
doesn’t matter if it’s a presentation that requires answering questions to a
small group, a large auditorium, or an audience on the other side of the
television camera or radio microphone…. when you get the chance, go for it
because you may not get another one and you may never know what’s on the other
side of a good interview.
Here are my tips for success if you’re the one with the
golden opportunity.
 |
| Who's Interviewing? What's Their Goal? |
* Always anticipate: Who’s interviewing you? Who’s listening to you? What’s coming your way?
* Think before you
speak: Take time to think about what you’ll deliver… and then do it with
confidence. “Winging it” will get you
nowhere. Deep breath before deep
thoughts.
* Take Charge: Be an interview “control freak.” Always remember that the interviewee has the
power – if – they use it creatively and effectively.
* Acknowledge Every
Question: No matter how tough or how
bad they may be… make sure you share with them and the audience a belief that
you understand what they’re asking.
After doing that… feel free to go in your own direction and sell your message. “I understand what you’re asking, and while I
can’t speak directly to that, what I can tell you is this….. “
 |
| Have Goals, Have a Message |
* Have Your Own
Goals: What is it that you want to
get out of the interview? Do you have a
game plan? Those who succeed with the
media have thought about what they’re trying to accomplish and what they stand
for.
* Don’t Answer
Questions: Manage them! A crafty
interview subject is someone who’s like a running back who sees the whole field
and is able to cut and shift along the way to a long run. Once you know who you are and what you want
people to say about you, you’ll know how to steer things in your direction.
* Be Presentable:
Image isn’t just one thing… it may be the most important thing. Determine the look that works for you. Don’t dress where you are, dress where you
want to go – or where you want the audience to take you.
An interview is a precious commodity. Think of a football team. Many on the team will never have the chance
to be in front of the microphone. Those
who do.... have a chance to speak for themselves and also represent the entire team.
Public speaking is a gift that can serve you well. How you handle your next chance can serve up
many more opportunities.
Line of the Day: If you’re scared to be interviewed, you
haven’t thought enough about the opportunity of your answers.
Follow me on Twitter @KraigKann
Learn more @HTKmedia
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