11 October 2024

This is another instalment in our ongoing Media Training series following Knowing Your Interviewer by Adam Taylor, Crafting Your Narrative with Rhoda Macdonald, and Mastering Difficult Questions in Media Interviews from Chris Wimpress.

Get in touch with a member of our corporate communications team for what we can do to lift your media performances.

The allure of broadcast media is undeniable: reaching a vast audience, sharing your expertise, and elevating your brand profile. But stepping into the world of live or pre-recorded television can be intimidating. Fear not, for by understanding the behind-the-scenes workings, you can transform a potentially nerve-wracking experience into a successful and engaging media appearance.

Essential tips for mastering the spotlight:

• Know Your Environment: Before the cameras roll, take a moment to familiarise yourself with the set-up. This seemingly simple step can significantly boost your confidence and ensure a smooth interview.

• Camera awareness: Locate the cameras and practice making eye contact with them, not the crew operating them. This creates a natural and engaging connection with the viewers.
• The panel dynamic: If it’s a panel discussion, learn about the other participants. Their areas of expertise can inform your approach and potentially lead to a more stimulating conversation.
• Seating arrangement: Knowing where you’ll be seated can help you visualise the flow of the interview. For example, if you’re positioned at the end of the panel, be prepared to actively participate in the conversation to ensure your voice is heard.
• Teleprompter or notes: Will you have access to a teleprompter with scrolling text, or will you be using notes? Understand which method is used and practice accordingly. If using notes, ensure they’re concise and organised for easy reference.
• Wardrobe for the screen: Certain colours and patterns can clash with the set design or cause a moiré effect (distortion) on screen. It is better to stick with solid colours and avoid busy patterns. When looking at wardrobe options, it’s also worth keeping the formality of the interview in mind – would it lend itself to more casual attire or should business attire be worn?
• Know your audience: Broadcast, more than other media, will attract a very specific audience and it’s important to understand who that audience is an tailor any messaging appropriately.

Read: How to craft your narrative in a media interview – with Rhoda Macdonald

Panel Interviews: Navigating the conversation flow

Panel discussions require a slightly different approach than a solo interview. Here are some tips for engaging effectively:

• Active listening: Pay close attention to the other panellists’ contributions and avoid interrupting. Wait for natural pauses to interject your thoughts or build upon their points.
• Body language: Maintain open, confident body language. Lean in slightly when someone is speaking and make eye contact with both the moderators and other panellists to demonstrate your engagement.
• Concision is key: Time is limited, so keep your responses short and to the point. Focus on delivering key messages and avoid going off on tangents.
• Respectful disagreement: Disagreements can create a more dynamic discussion. If you disagree with a panellist, state your position respectfully and offer your evidence to support your viewpoint.
• Engaging the audience: Don’t just speak to the moderators or other panellists, you need to connect with your audience. Use direct eye contact with the camera and incorporate gestures to connect with the viewers.

Remember:

• Familiarise yourself with the set-up – knowing the environment boosts confidence.
• Understand if you’ll use a teleprompter, notes, or both.
• Research other panellists for a more informed and engaging discussion.
• Dress appropriately for the screen, avoiding patterns that might cause distortion.
• Practice active listening and respectful conversation flow in panel discussions.
• Keep your responses concise and use engaging body language to connect with the audience.

By incorporating these essential tips, you transform your broadcast media appearance from a passive experience into an engaging and impactful opportunity to connect with a wider audience. Remember, a little preparation and awareness of the behind-the-scenes details go a long way in ensuring a successful and memorable on-air experience.

To find out more about how to get the desired outcome from your media engagements get in touch.

Read Adam Taylor’s top tips for achieving your interview goals by Knowing Your Interviewer.