How to prepare for a radio interview – Part 2

This post is a continuation of the previous one on how to prepare for a radio interview.

Now that you’ve decided to do the interview, make a list of things that you want to say. It’s good practice to have no more than three very important points that are easy for both you and the audience to remember.

It’s also good to be clear on what you do not want to say during the interview, and how you will respond to controversial questions should they arise.

Tips on sounding your best during the interview

• In radio, your voice establishes your image. Do not put on a voice or an “official” style. Be yourself.
• Speak at a normal level of loudness. Do not treat the microphone as a public address system. You are chatting not lecturing or preaching.
• Speak clearly using short sentences.
• Do not use jargon.  Please leave terms like “capacity building”, “upscale” and “gender-disadvantaged” at the office.
• Since radio lacks visuals, use relevant personal examples and stories to connect with your listeners.
• Feel free to have notes to remind you of message points, key facts and figures, etc. But don’t have lots of notes or you’ll get confused.
• Tell your story, don’t read it out.
• Use your hands as you talk to give life and colour to your voice. A smile can brighten your voice, even on radio.
• Don’t breathe loudly or cough into a microphone. Simply turn your head away.
• Turn off your phone. If you have notes, do not rustle the paper. Watch that any hand movements do not hit the desk or the microphone. All noises are magnified by the microphone.
• Don’t argue or raise your voice. The most effective way to overcome hostile questions from listeners or the interviewer is to make your points firmly and politely and back up assertions with facts. Sound enthusiastic and positive, not defensive or aggressive.
• Be aware that you  have limited time so respect the interviewer and other guests (if there are any).
• If you don’t understand a question, ask for clarification. Don’t assume.
• Remember, nothing is “off the record”.
• Finally, be comfortable. In a radio interview you can loosen a tight collar or belt and kick off your shoes. Just don’t chew any gum!

Many people I train to do interviews get really nervous beforehand. But a couple of deep breaths before the microphone is live will help you calm and control your nerves. You may not feel better, but you will sound it!

Photo by Kutchala Sutchi/ CC BY