A TV interview can do a lot for your reputation in a few minutes. It can also go by in a blur. Most segments are short, the questions can change at the last second, and the lights and cameras make even confident speakers feel rushed.
Preparation is what turns those few minutes into something you are proud to share. Use this checklist before your first appearance.
One week before
Understand the segment
Ask the producer the practical questions: Is it live or recorded? In studio or remote? How long is the segment? Who is the host, and is anyone else appearing? What is the main question they want answered? The more you know, the less you have to improvise.
Choose three key messages
Decide the three points you most want viewers to remember. Keep each one to a single sentence. If the interview only gives you time for one, which one matters most? Lead with that.
Prepare proof
For each message, prepare one example, story or simple fact that supports it. Stories are easier to remember and easier for viewers to follow than abstract claims.
Three days before
Practise out loud
Ask a colleague to play the host and fire questions at you, including awkward ones. Record it on your phone and watch it back. Most people discover they speak too fast and use too much jargon.
Shorten everything
TV rewards short, clear answers. Aim for answers of around 15 to 30 seconds. If an answer needs a long setup, it probably needs to be simplified.
Write your bridges
A bridge is a phrase that steers back to your message, such as “The bigger issue here is…” or “What viewers should know is…”. Having two or three ready helps when a question drifts off topic.
The day before
Plan what to wear
Choose solid, mid-tone colours that suit you. Avoid small patterns and very thin stripes, which can flicker on camera, and avoid anything that blends into a green or blue background. Wear something comfortable that you have already worn for a full day.
For remote interviews
Test your camera, microphone and connection on the platform you will use. Put the camera at eye level, sit facing a window or soft light, and choose a tidy, simple background. Close notifications and other apps.
On the day
- Arrive early, or log in early for remote segments.
- Bring a glass of water and avoid heavy food beforehand.
- Turn your phone to silent and hand it to someone if possible.
- Look at the host, not the camera, unless the producer tells you otherwise.
- Assume every microphone is live, before, during and after the segment.
During the interview
Answer the question asked, then add your key message. Speak in plain words, as if talking to one interested person at home. Keep your energy a little higher than usual, because cameras flatten it. If you do not know something, say so briefly and return to what you do know.
Above all, land your one memorable line. Producers and viewers remember a single clear sentence far longer than a detailed explanation.
After the interview
Thank the producer and host. Ask when and where the segment will be available, and request a copy or link if possible. Then put it to work: add it to your website, share it on social media, include it in proposals and add it to your speaker reel. A good segment often leads to the next booking.
If you would like help securing TV interviews and preparing for them, book a strategy call. TV interviews are part of our Media Authority services, and every placement in your program is guaranteed.
