- Speak loudly and clearly.

- Stand or sit up straight. You will project, and feel, more confidence.

- Keep your eyes on the interviewer. Avoid looking at the camera unless asked to. Don't wear sunglasses.

- Try not to move your head back and forth very much or wiggle around in your seat. This doesn't mean you need to be stiff, just steady.

- Answer questions with a full sentence. For example, if you are asked, "What is your favorite color?" it is more helpful to have you respond "My favorite color is brown," rather than just saying "Brown." This way the the interviewer's voice doesn't need to be included in the final edited video and it sounds more natural to the viewer.

- Remember why you are being interviewed. Focus on the issues that are important to you and that have motivated your involvement in this issue so far. The interview is not some test or trial, it is an opportunity for you to say something you know in your own words.

- Unless you are on live television, the editor of the video will be able to choose the best of what you say later on. So relax. If you don't say something exactly like you want it, just tell the interviewer you want to rephrase your sentence or start again. With the exception of some people from the corporate media, the interviewer wants you to look good almost as much as you do.

- When describing something around you, remember that the camera person can usually go back to that object and tape it later. Although this may really be more the personal preference of an individual videographer, this way there is no discontinuity in the shot of you talking and the editor can show the object later if necessary. (An obvious exception to this might be if something dramatic is actually happening now and there will be no other opportunity to tape it: for example, someone is being hurt or arrested as you speak).

- Try to remain focused on the question being asked and wrap up your statement with a condensed or general summary of your main points. Sound bites are not necessary, but clarity is.

Last updated on 25/FEB/04

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