PLAYTIME MAKES GREAT SPOKESPERSONS

As the the CEO of a family owned business, you've been invited to appear on a local TV public affairs program. To date, your spokesperson work has been limited to print media and radio, and the thought of being in a front of a camera makes you break out in hives. 

The situation is not unique to even experienced spokespersons. The fear of failure, of embarrassment, of being judged by your words and appearance can tip the scales of confidence.  What to do?  Before the interview, try some playtime.  Bring back the child in you through playful exercises to release inhibitions and build poise.  Through playtime, the body, mind and emotions come together harmoniously.

Caution:  It is highly recommended that playtime be combined with rigorous and methodical preparation, for which there is no substitute.

Draw a mind map.

Make doodles and scribbles of what you want to say and some memory triggers instead of full phrases of what you want to convey during the interview.

Tell bedtime stories.

Turn your message into stories of people, real people, in simple situations that illustrate the “moral” of your messages.

Play a game of charades.

Act out your message like you are playing charades, or a pantomime party game.  Take an improv class to sharpen your non-verbal communication and body language.

Practice being a rock star.

Practice your message points out loud with the zest you felt singing along with Queen to We are the champions.

Visualize joy.

Before you arrive at the TV studio, daydream back to a moment of pure joy, your favorite holiday gift, your first kitten, the most delicious birthday cake you ever tasted.

Bring a toy.

Bring along a small good luck charm, a joyful reminder, in your wallet, purse or pocket. Touch it, look at it before the interview if you feel your skin tingle and your palms dampen.

Eat candy, not gum.

Use breath mints to moisten your mouth before the interview, but nothing should be in your mouth during the interview. 

Smile.

Smile wide and often, it’s worth a thousand words.

Rule the playground.

Ace the interview knowing your mind, body and emotions are in alignment. When you are relaxed you look, sound and feel better. Your competence and authenticity will shine through.

Have fun.

Enjoy the moment, flow in the process, and don’t focus on the outcome.

Be fully prepared in body and mind is a hallmark of the Exceptional Spokesperson.

Guru of the Day

Hal Hart, author, Successful Spokespersons Are Made, Not Born. 

www.halhartcommunciations.com

Myth: Business attire is best for any interview situation.

Reality: The Exceptional Spokesperson embodies and articulates the message. Appearance underscores the message, so don’t be afraid to dress the part if it will enhance what you want to convey.  But don’t leave it to chance—consult your public relations counsel, the reporter, or segment producer.  If you’re not sure, bring backup wardrobe, just in case.

 Link to Genius

 "Joy happens at the place where focus, motivation and engagement intersect."

     -- Gina Amaro Rudan, author, Practical Genius: The Real Smarts You Need to Get Your

          Talents and Passions Working for You. www.practicalgenius.com.