Mastering Media Interviews: Not just for the CEO.

I recently came across an inspiring story about a highly respected gentleman whom I began to interview during my very first stint as a TV reporter, around 2008 thereabouts. I just learned that he used to dedicate time to staying back at the office often, meticulously studying orators, taking notes, and reading out loud speeches in his office. ?I’m told he watched Barack Obama's interviews and speeches and diligently practiced his own speech and conversational skills for about an hour on a regular basis. Today, he stands out as one of the most exceptional African orators I have ever encountered.

This anecdote unveils a profound truth about the art of conversation—it can be learned and mastered.

In my role as a Media Trainer, I typically work with executives and media-facing professionals, guiding them in effective communication strategies. However, reflecting on the evolving media landscape, I've come to realize that media training extends to a broader audience. With social media playing an ever-increasing role in our lives, we all become representatives of our personal brands and affiliated organizations. I firmly believe that media training is a valuable skill set for everyone. It equips individuals with the tools to navigate modern communication effectively, fostering meaningful connections and building trust in our digital, media-driven world.

Whether you're representing your company, sharing insights on industry trends, or addressing a crisis, the ability to convey your message clearly and confidently is paramount. Here are a few tips I would like to share.

Prepare, Prepare, Prepare: ? It is crucial to immerse yourself in a wide range of literature and stay informed about global trends and comparatives. Delving into diverse sources provides valuable insights and perspectives. Incorporating data into your conversations can greatly bolster your credibility, as numbers often carry significant weight. To further refine your abilities, anticipate potential questions that may arise during interviews or discussions and diligently practice your responses.

Stay on Message: What are your key messages? Maintaining message consistency is paramount during interviews. When faced with questions that deviate from your intended topics, adeptly redirect the conversation back to the key messages you wish to convey. This approach ensures that your core points remain front and center, enabling you to effectively communicate your message and achieve your communication objectives.

Embrace Simplicity: ?Gain clarity regarding your audience and determine the most effective means of communication. It's worth noting that even when dealing with complex subject matter, you can simplify your message without oversimplifying it. If you find it necessary to employ jargon or industry-specific terminology, ensure that you provide a clear and thorough explanation to prevent losing your audience.

?Practice Active Listening; Engage in active listening, as it can significantly enhance the quality of your conversations. Often, we may seem attentive but are preoccupied with formulating our responses. By consciously focusing on the interviewer and their questions, you can facilitate a more fluid and engaging interview, resulting in more meaningful and productive interactions.

?Use Bridging Techniques: Bridging in media interviews is a valuable technique that allows the interviewee to smoothly transition from the interviewer's question to their key messages or talking points. By using bridging phrases like 'That's a good point, but it is important to remember that...' the interviewee can acknowledge the question while redirecting the conversation to the topics they want to emphasize. It helps maintain control over the narrative and ensures that the intended messages are conveyed effectively, even in the face of challenging or unexpected questions. (I must say, that as a journalist I do not like this very much, :-)

Be Authentic Always keep in mind that you are the expert in your field. Embrace the opportunity to showcase your knowledge and expertise, allowing your brilliance to shine. Don't hesitate to let your unique personality and perspective come through in your interactions, the audience loves an authentic person. By doing so, you not only convey your authority but also engage your audience on a more personal level, fostering a deeper connection and making your communication more compelling and memorable.

Maintain Composure It's crucial to understand that feeling anxious or nervous, especially during challenging or crisis communication situations, is entirely natural. However, your composure in these moments speaks volumes. Consider taking deep breaths before interviews, and if necessary, run cold water over your wrists to help center yourself. Clear your mind and always remember that you can handle the situation with confidence and poise.

Body Language Matters: During a TV interview, it's essential to maintain proper engagement with the journalist. Ensure your body is facing them, maintain consistent eye contact, and avoid addressing the camera unless specifically prompted to do so. Embrace hand gestures to enhance your communication and keep your body language open and inviting, fostering a more effective and relatable on-screen presence.

Practice Mock Interviews ?Mock interviews, albeit occasionally awkward, serve as invaluable tools for honing your media engagement skills. When done solo, they can indeed feel challenging, but their importance cannot be overstated. To ensure you're well-prepared, consider incorporating regular mock interviews into your routine. You can collaborate with your communications team or enlist the assistance of a trusted friend. This practice not only helps you refine your responses but also builds your confidence, ensuring that you're poised and ready for the spotlight when the time comes.

These are just a few insights, underscoring the importance of continuously honing our communication skills in today's interconnected world.

It's essential to recognize that becoming a proficient conversationalist is a journey that spans a lifetime. Whether you occupy an executive role, are part of a team, or actively engage in the digital realm, media training is a powerful tool for bolstering your ability to communicate effectively and make a lasting impression. However, the foundation of this journey lies in your commitment to self-improvement and the investments you make in both knowledge and your personal brand.