The other day I found out that I was scheduled to appear on a combined TV/Radio interview and I started looking for help.
First I consulted the internet. I discovered that there was a science to the art of giving a live interview, and also that I had no clue about the basics.
I decided to go for more serious help, and called a friend – Elaine Wint – who just happens to be “the Barbara Walters of Jamaica.”
After a couple of hours I was fully reminded of the difference that a trained coach can make.
She expertly looked with me at what I wanted to accomplish. Then she gave me some basic coaching on the dynamics of an interview.
Last, she helped me to craft the messages I wanted to deliver, showing me how to ensure that every opportunity to speak was a chance to deliver a part of my message.
When I arrived in Trinidad I found that the time had been extended from 30 to 60 minutes, and that I was part of a 2-person panel rather than 3. This all meant more time – good thing.
Sure enough, the preparation paid off.
I was able to deliver each of the key messages as planned, and could focus on enjoying myself, rather than on trying to think up something good to say in the spur of the moment.
Thanks to Elaine.
Here is a link to the audio portions of the interview: Part 1 and Part 2
And here is a link to Elaine’s new website.