Prepare: Before you go on camera:
Attire
Wear dark blue or brown and try to avoid black.
Know Your Story
Focus your broad knowledge of your subject into three key messages that tell a complete story. Think about what you would like the headline to be, and what you want your audience to remember.
Consider the Audience
Whom are you trying to reach? Make sure your messages and your supporting information are tailored to your audience. Avoid jargon – use language they will understand. When possible, put a face on it, meaning, give an example of a person or situation that your audience can relate to and appreciate.
Anticipate
Develop a list of questions that are likely to be asked. Be prepared for obvious negative questions, but also be ready to answer the supposedly “easy” ones, as “Tell me about this study/ your company/ your perspective on this issue.”
Use Flags
Phrases such as “What’s most important…” “The key thing is…” “There are three critical factors…” signal to the audience that you’re about to say something vital.
Build Bridge
Don’t just answer the question. Find the ways to go beyond the answer to your message. Be more expansive, offer additional information, return to an earlier point. Make sure you spend more time on your story than on other, less important topics.
Turn Negatives Into Positives
Don’t be defensive and don’t over-explain you response to the negative. Instead, deal with the negative-without repeating any negative language- and then bridge to a message. Remember to end on a positive.
Creating the right impression
Speak up. Smile when it’s appropriate. Strive to project confidence, credibility, and thoughtfulness.
To minimize distractions with your hands don’t put them under the table or cross your arms at your chest.
Marsheila DeVan, MBA Communications Specialist