Why does the Red ON-AIR light cause fear in most interviews?
My wife and I were sitting watching TV news when the News Anchor went to interview a “local expert” about a subject.
As soon as the “expert” went live we could see he was trying to read his answers…and seemed extremely nervous. I could tell this was his first interview…and it felt very awkward to watch.
As the interview went along he forgot about is notes and started having a conversation…and things improved slightly.
So many of us listen or watch an interview and think, “I can do that!” BUT it is not nearly as easy as people think. I’ve had some very talkative guests come into the studio and as soon as we go live, nerves kick in and they start stumbling all over themselves. It’s amazing to watch. On the contrary, the best interviews sound like we are sitting around a coffee shop just having a great conversation with friends!
Now my job as an interviewer is to put them at ease and draw out the information as best as possible.
Here’s a few things to remember:
1. Never write a ton of notes for your interview. Just have the basics of what you need to share on a cue card. Only 3 keys points to jog your memory. Any more than that and you will lose your place in the notes and start to panic. I've seen it happen a lot!
2. Practice Practice and Practice some more. Have someone play radio with you…and throw some questions your way. It’s amazing how much easier things get when you prep before the interview.
3. Only focus on the person asking you questions. NEVER think about all the listeners or viewers…that will freak you out! So have a great chat with your new best friend.
4. And the final important point. Listen to every interview. Watch every interview. And critique it. This is VERY hard to do. You might be embarrassed. You will hate the way your voice sounds. BUT it is critical to becoming a great guest!
Do these 4 things and you’ll be in control of your “Red On-Air Light” fear.
