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How to Prepare for a Television Interview

Member
By scott shanley
User-Submitted Article
(0 Ratings)

When making a television appearance for an interview, whether on a news program or talk show, how you look and conduct yourself can ultimately have a huge impact upon the public's perception of you afterward.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Calm, collected attitude
  • Common courtesy toward production staff and interviewer
  • Proper dress
  1. Step 1

    Contrary to what some may believe, preparing for your interview actually begins at home, long before you even step foot into the studio. Proper dress is perhaps the most important aspect of being able to communicate well with your audience, since your attire will more than likely be the first thing that is noticed. Be sure to consult with the show's producer about what you should be wearing for your interview. If you are still in doubt, take a glance at some prior episodes to compare.

    For men wearing suits, dark and solid colors are strongly recommended. Some patterns and stripes do not translate well to the screen. Large, bright or flashy jewelry on women also does not televise well and is not suggested.

  2. Step 2

    Arrive early for your interview. This way, you can be caught up on any last-minute changes that the producer may have had to make. And if traffic or some other unexpected twist of fate happens to delay you, it won't be that big a deal.

  3. Step 3

    Meet with your interviewer prior to going on the air to discuss the format of the show and what will generally be discussed. This can help greatly with preparing what you will say while on the air in addition to relieving some of the anxieties you may be experiencing.

  4. Step 4

    Prior to going on the air, take a moment to relax and run over in your head your key message. Also, make sure you are familiar with set arrangements so you know where to go and sit once introduced.

  5. Step 5

    While you are being interviewed, exercising proper mannerisms and posture is just as important as the words that are coming out of your mouth. A few things to keep in mind while on the air are to keep your legs crossed at the knee as opposed to the ankle and to lean slightly forward in order to remain alert and attentive.

Tips & Warnings
  • Maintaining eye contact and sitting up straight are two additional suggestions to keep in mind.
  • Keep talking. If the conversation has an awkward pause, bring up something you read in the newspaper or saw on television that may pertain to your topic.

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