While many of the same interviewing skills are needed for print and TV news interviews, sources for broadcast media need to be more cognizant of their appearance and the ability to connect with viewers visually.
Do’s and Don’ts for News Interviews offers tips like speaking “on-the-record” and avoiding speculation, yet television news is fast paced and highly visual, and potential interviewees need additional tips and tricks to perfect their stance on the air.
Develop a Rapport with the Reporter before the Interview
If possible, talk with the reporter when the camera is off to get a feel for his or her conversation style. Chatting with a reporter can put sources at ease and helps them understand how questions may be asked during the interview. It’s also common practice to ask reporters what kinds of questions they will be asking beforehand.
Be Conversational and Look at the Reporter
A TV news interview should unfold like a conversation between two people, rather than a planned script. While subjects should have a good idea about what they’re going to say, they should avoid memorizing responses word for word. This can prevent sources from being caught off-guard with unexpected questions and comments. In addition, sources should stay focused on the person interviewing them, not the camera. An exception to this rule happens during a satellite or remote interview where the person being interviewed is in a different location than the reporter or anchor. In that case, one should remain focused on the camera.
Speak in Sound Bites
Sound bites, which are typically 10 to 20 seconds long, are short quotes from a longer speech that provide insight into a particular topic. Long-winded responses can break the flow of a conversation and cause viewers to lose interest. Interviewees should speak in concise, complete sentences.
Be Wary of Off-Camera Comments
Don't say anything off the air that you wouldn't say on the air. TV cameras are often running when it appears they aren’t. Additionally, other people who hear adverse comments may repeat them later in a different context. Sources should always consider themselves “on-the-record,” which means anything they say at anytime can be reported by the media.
Dress for Television
Avoid wearing busy patterns or all-black/all-white clothing. Interview subjects should dress in neutral colors and subdued patterns that won’t distract viewers. They should also avoid shiny jewelry and items that continually need to be adjusted. Face makeup is generally worn by both females and males, as powder can reduce shininess from the bright lighting.
Following these tips can put sources at ease in front of the camera, yet the best way to improve upon basic TV interview skills is through practice. Have a friend, co-worker or trained media coach ask potential interview questions while being taped, and then review the video with a critical eye. This is especially effective at reducing nerves and to correct wandering eyes.
For additional information, visit How to Prepare for a News Interview.
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