Whether you're doing a TV interview, a radio spot, a podcast or just trying to get your message across in a concise and memorable way, these tips will help you craft soundbites that are effective and impactful.
1. Know your message to help master the art of soundbites:
The first step in creating an effective soundbite is knowing what message you want to convey. Take the time to distill your message down to a few key points that are easy to understand and remember. You can cater your soundbites to different opportunities and audiences. What you say on morning TV will be different from what you share on perhaps a financial program or a lifestyle-oriented podcast. Be ready to switch it up.
2. Keep it short:
Mastering the art of soundbites is all about brevity. Keep your message short and concise. Remember, you want your message to be memorable and easily digestible.
3. Use analogies and metaphors:
Analogies and metaphors are a great way to help your audience understand complex ideas. They also make your soundbite more interesting.
4. Practice:
The key to delivering a great soundbite is practice. Take the time to rehearse your message until it feels natural, and you can deliver it with ease. I always suggest walking around your house and talking out loud to hear yourself speak and get comfortable with your message, and the tone and inflections in your voice.
5. Use active language:
Active language is more engaging and memorable than passive language. Use action words and verbs to make your message more dynamic.
6. Be authentic:
Authenticity is key when it comes to delivering a great soundbite. Be yourself and let your personality shine through.
7. Stay on message:
During an interview, it's easy to get sidetracked and go off on tangents. It's important to stay on message and keep your soundbite focused on your key points.
8. Use storytelling:
People remember stories better than facts and figures. Use storytelling to make your message more engaging and memorable.
9. Be aware of body language:
Your body language can say just as much as your words. Make sure your body language is open and engaged and avoid crossing your arms, looking away from the interviewer, shifting too much in your chair if you’re seated, or moving side to side when standing.
10. Know your audience:
Finally, it's important to know your audience and tailor your message accordingly. Speak in a language that your audience will understand and use examples that are relevant to their lives and experiences.
When preparing your messaging, here's a list of overused words and phrases to stop using in interviews.
Alison Deyette is a media training/on-camera coach based in Los Angeles. She has media-trained CEOs, entrepreneurs, on-air personalities, experts, NBA players, and a long list of Fortune 500 companies develop and express their messaging and content for television, social media, video and digital publications. Alison has helped with presentations, media tours, speeches, Shark Tank pitches, and interviews. She is the regular lifestyle expert for The Kelly Clarkson Show, KTLA Los Angeles, Inside Edition, Access Hollywood, Today and regularly works with brands on HSN, QVC and other networks.
Comentários