Anyone can give a good interview – here’s how

There are those who are naturally glib. Whether they’re at the office party or in front of a camera, speaking their minds comes easily. But for others, the idea of having to give an interview, and a good one at that, can be daunting to some, terrifying to others. However, anyone can give a good interview. All it takes is some practice and a few tips and techniques.

Be Yourself. Don’t try to be someone you’re not. You’ll look awkward and make your audience uncomfortable. If you’re a reserved person so be it. You can still give an intelligent, concise answer to a question. To give a good interview you don’t have to be a clown, you just have to be interesting.

Slow Down. There are many benefits to speaking slowly while being interviewed. People can understand you and follow your train of thought; you appear confident; and it gives you more time to think and organize your ideas.

Ignore the tape recorder. Tape recorders often scare people, causing them to freeze up, stumble over words and hold back. When giving an interview, make sure you’re very familiar with your subject matter. When you know your stuff backwards and forwards, you won’t even notice the recorder.

Understand what the interviewer wants. An interviewer is looking for a compelling explanation of the topic, something interesting to tell her readers and quotes from the interviewee to make the story effective and strong. Provide these things and you will have given a good interview.

Prepare. Don’t ask for the questions in advance. Most reporters looking for a good interview won’t give them to you. It’s not that they’re trying to trick you, but rather they just want fresh, unrehearsed answers. However, even without the questions you can still think about what you’re likely to be asked and prepare answers. Practice being interviewed by a friend or family member.

Pay attention. Don’t let the journalist put words in your mouth. During an interview, if the reporter makes a statement then says, “Don’t you agree?” be careful how you respond. If you don’t disagree the statement might end up in print attributed to you.