I’ve done hundreds of broadcast interviews with thousands of people — from high street shoppers to senior leaders. Some are seasoned pros who’ve dealt with the media for years. For others, it’s their very first time in front of a camera.
And let’s be honest: it can feel terrifying. But it doesn’t have to be. In fact, if you remember one simple truth (okay, maybe two), the whole experience becomes much easier.
Unless you’re caught in a random vox pop — where a journalist stops you in the street for a quick opinion — you’re usually the expert in the room. You’ve been chosen because you know your subject. That already puts you ahead of the interviewer. But here’s the real superpower: conversation.
The Trap of “Getting It Right”
Picture this: you’re asked to do a TV interview about a tough decision at your company — maybe job cuts. You scribble down key points, rehearse possible questions, and set up in your office. Then the journalist arrives and says, “Let’s film outside.”
Suddenly, the interview starts and your brain screams: “I need to get this RIGHT.”
That’s when the trouble begins. You’re clinging to your notes, trying to recall your script, and instead of sounding confident, you come across stiff and robotic. The audience sees someone parroting lines, not a human being.
Flip the Script
Now imagine a different approach. Forget the boardroom charts, spreadsheets, and forecasts. Instead, picture yourself explaining the situation to a close friend in a pub or café.
The setting is relaxed. You’re not talking about fiscal pressures or profit margins — you’re sharing what’s happening in plain, human terms. You’re opening up, maybe even over a coffee or a pint, and your friend listens with empathy.
That’s the mindset you need. Because at its core, an interview isn’t a performance. It’s a conversation.
The Superpower of Storytelling
Journalists often prefer outdoor shots because they feel less formal. You should take the same cue. Drop the jargon. Forget the script. Tell the story as you would to a friend.
When you do, three things happen:
- You sound authentic.
- You connect with the audience.
- You remind people that behind the title or role, you’re a human being.
There are no interviews. Only conversations. And once you embrace that, the fear fades, the pressure lifts, and your real voice comes through.
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