Interview

An interviewer’s questions can sometimes put us off. It may be that we simply find the journalist obnoxious or perhaps a little aggressive. Perhaps he speaks with some sort of sneer, making you feel he is trying to make you look silly. It’s understandable if this sort of situation makes us feel upset or even angry. In an extreme, we might even be tempted to storm out of an interview. While you have the right to do that, it’s really your most extreme option. Better to seek ways to get the interview back on track, and that’s something your key messages can help you achieve.

Also, stay as calm as you can even as the journalist repeats a loaded question. Though the public is usually on the journalist’s side, they can switch, especially if they feel the journalist is being a nuisance, and repeating loaded questions is one way this can happen. The third time you’re faced with the same question, calmly tell the journalist that you have said all you have to say on the matter, but make sure you always maintain a composed, positive stance. The camera will show your expression, your attitude and that of your counterpart. Score points with your open manner and your smile even when you have to duck some of the questions – especially when you have to duck some of the questions. If you find this hard to do, try to find some redeeming quality in the other person and mentally focus on that. And as far as his defects are concerned, don’t deny them, but smile at them. There, you’re smiling, and that’s looking good!