Mastering the On-Camera Interview: The Power of Speaking Less to Control the Narrative

In a world where media narratives can make or break your public image, it's crucial to understand the nuances of a successful on-camera interview. Whether you're an entrepreneur, politician, or an industry expert, a key principle to remember is: The less you say, the better.

Pause and Reflect: The Power of Silence

The natural inclination during an interview is to fill the silence. Nobody wants to feel awkward, and it's human nature to want to elaborate when asked a question. However, pausing to collect your thoughts can be your secret weapon. This brief silence allows you to formulate a precise, straightforward answer. Remember, that awkward pause you experience is unlikely to make it into the final edit. Editors often cut straight to your response, leaving the audience unaware of your hesitation.

Preparation is Key: Know The Topic

When a media request comes in, your first question should be about the topic of the interview. Being caught off guard can lead you to speak more than you intend to, inadvertently handing control over to the producers or editors. Knowing the subject matter in advance enables you to prepare concise, focused responses.

Keeping It Short and Sweet: Navigating Controversial Topics

Controversial topics are especially tricky to handle. The odds are high that your words can be twisted or taken out of context if you provide a long-winded answer. Consult a PR professional or practice concise responses to likely questions if your subject is sensitive. Remember, you're not writing an essay; you're giving a statement that could be reduced to a few seconds on air.

The Stare: When Silence Speaks Volumes

Interviewers are experts at making you talk. One technique they employ is the prolonged stare after you've finished speaking, designed to make you feel compelled to elaborate. Don't fall for it. Maintain your composure and let the silence hang in the air. The less you say, the less material there is for anyone to manipulate your narrative.

Watch Your Face: Emotional Reactions Can Speak Louder Than Words

Facial expressions can betray your thoughts and feelings. A smirk, raised eyebrow, or eye roll could be the segment's highlight, shifting focus away from your statement. Always maintain a neutral, unemotional expression, particularly when confronted with provocative questions.

No Guesswork Allowed

If you're hit with a curveball question you weren't prepared for, it's okay to admit that you need more information before responding. Saying, "Let me get back to you," or "I'm not in a position to comment on that right now," in a measured tone will signal that your answer should not be included in the final cut.

Stop Talking On a Dime

Be decisive. Once you've made your point, don't be afraid to stop talking. Every additional word is a potential pitfall, an opportunity for your message to be diluted or misconstrued.

Being in control of your narrative during an on-camera interview is less about what you say and more about how you say it—and how much you don't say. By following these guidelines, you set yourself up for a successful interview that communicates your message clearly and minimizes the risk of being misrepresented. Less is indeed more.