After practicing in front of the mirror with a shampoo bottle in her right hand for years, Yara landed a few TV interviews last week. A media dream coming true was her interview for a big daily program called RTL Boulevard (check the interview out here) and Koffietijd (watch it here). We make bucket lists on the CHAPTER FRIDAY headquarters and this was a big one to tick off! Quite nerve wrecking, to say the least, but she definitely pulled it off.

Though your blog might be a little bit smaller, there’s always hope to get in the spotlight some day. Even if it’s just in the local newspaper, media attention is a great boost for traffic to your blog. When this big media moment is finally happening, you obviously want to be on top of your game. You, superstar you! From practice, we provide you with a few notes to keep in the back of your mind when the time is there. So you will make it the best interview you possibly can - without completely freaking out, that is. The camera will absolutely looove you.

Know your story
Being interviewed is super exciting, but don’t get lost when telling your story. As preparation: try to tell the same facts every time - about who you are, what you do and your relation to the subject - but while using other words each interview. Write down what you want to tell your audience and think about a few funny phrases (or jokes maybe) in advance to keep your story light and interesting.

Be prepared
When you are watching an interview, it may look super natural, but it’s not all that spontaneous. As a guest, you should know what you’re talking about. This means you definitely need some time to practice. Prepare your answers and give as much information in short and clear sentences. If you feel prepared, you’re more likely to feel relaxed and even if there’s a question you don’t expect to be asked - you’ll know what to say. Cheesy but true: practice makes perfect.

Speak clearly
An interview that is hard to understand is not going to be remembered. At least not in a good sense. Speak clearly and slowly, so your message actually comes across. If you speak really quickly (which often happens when you’re nervous) you might stumble over your words or confuse your audience.

Stay true to yourself
Don’t be tempted to make statements, when you’re asked (rude) questions. Of course, it’s good for ratings, but not for your image. Blogging can be described in many different ways and the vision of the interviewer/writer/presenter may differ from yours.

Check the facts
Make sure the TV presenter knows how to pronounce your name and the name of your brand. You don’t want half of the country to say your name wrong when asking for an autograph… In case of an interview for a printed newspaper, magazine or online story, you should always make use of the opportunity to read the text before publication. Don’t hesitate to ask if the interviewer doesn’t bring this matter up him/herself. Check the text for spelling mistakes (age, url, and again the name game!) and factual inaccuracies.

Show your enthusiasm
Though what you say is definitely important, how you say it matters too. If you’re talking about your blog, a new project you’re working on or some other exciting news, bring positive energy and try to channel it. Check out the medium you’re talking to and dig into the tone of voice - is it serious or are there a lot of jokes being made? If you show others that you’re passionate about your work, that you love what you’re doing and you give them a great smile, they are more likely to remember you. Helloooo new readers!

Have you ever given an interview? Were you nervous?

(Image via Instagram/yara_michels)

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