Freelance broadcaster, presenter,
voice-over and media-training consultant

Even the briefest interview with a newspaper, magazine, television or radio reporter or the reported outcome of a press conference can deeply affect the public's perception of individuals and the organisations they represent. Interviewees have the responsibility for what comes across in the interview.

Why is it that some interviews wash right over you, while others command your attention and stick in your mind afterwards?

It is of course a combination of what is said and how it said. Yet very few people are natural interviewees. Learning a few simple techniques can really make the difference between a person who comes across as unconvincing and someone who really gets the message over.

My workshops use broadcast standard equipment to simulate real-life conditions for television and radio interviews and discussion programmes. We explain how programmes and stories are developed, how journalists approach different kinds of interviews and how on screen packages are put together.

Workshop Sample

This is an illustration of a model day course. However each session is designed for the client organisation, so this draft is by no means set in stone. A later start can easily be arranged if you wish.

0900 : Arrival and introductions

0915 : Introductory talk; the media and its daily operation • Briefing for recording sessions • Hints and tips on giving interviews.

0945 :Recording of individual radio interviews using pre-arranged subjects (prepared in advance by course delegates) • Press releases & dealing with journalists • Effective press release writing; what to say and what NOT to say • Short exercise.

1030 : Coffee • Review of press release exercise • Playback of radio interviews, with analysis and discussion • Briefing for afternoon television session.

1200 : Lunch - opportunity for informal discussion.

1245 : “The News” An illustrated session on the compilation of news reports, with further hints and tips.

1315 : “Lights, camera, action.” • Recording, playback, analysis and discussion of interviews using pre-arranged scenarios, and a variety of formats. Each course member will have the opportunity for a couple of appearances. Includes break for tea.

1600 : Course summary (initial discussion in groups then plenary)

In the case of both the radio and the afternoon sessions, the instructors give feedback on delivery, and use of language. We encourage participants to think about the person on the receiving end – and discourage the use of jargon as much as possible.

The day ends with a summary, and final words about dealing with journalists. Of course, participants will have questions of their own and we incorporate these into the informal discussions that take place throughout the day.