As a radio host and former television host, I have learned a lot over the years while conducting interviews. I have witnessed some good and bad habits in artists. I have used what I have learned while being interviewed about my own music as a dance recording artist.
I would like to share some of my experiences with you. A couple of years ago, I interviewed a Sony recording artist, and I was excited because I loved their current single, and I did my research on them. Prior to our interview, I received an email asking if I would send over a copy of my interview questions. I replied, no, we do not provide questions prior to interviews, our questions come strictly from the biography that is on your website.
So, when the interview took place, I found that the artist had been unprepared for the interview. They were providing one-word answers, and I found myself having to pull answers out of them. I was thankful that the interview was recorded, so that I was able to edit it. They were not happy about their performance, and I just felt a little disappointed for someone who showed so much promise. It was an opportunity for them to connect with their audiences, and to gain new fans. I just hope that they learned from that experience. Even still, I do not provide interview questions prior to an interview.
Tips on Conducting a Successful Interview with IRMIX Radio and Any Other Radio or Television Program.
Be on time for your interview, especially when you are first starting out. If you are going to be late, send an email or give a phone call to let them know or ask for a reschedule if possible. There is nothing worse than having a producer scramble to obtain another guest if it is a live show, but it is the nature of the business. Sending an email or making a phone call will show your professionalism and you would more than likely have the opportunity on the show especially if it is a highly rated program.
Listen to the questions that are being asked of you, if you are giving a non-answer/answer the interviewer if they are good will redirect you. If you do not understand the question or if you need the question repeated, say so. If you need to regain your composure, say so, and ask the interviewer if it is ok to start the question over again, do this only if it is a prerecorded interview.
Relax, your interviewer wants to see you succeed. Remember, there are hours of time put in listening to your music, taking the time to read your biography and come up with questions to ask you. It is not a good look for you or your brand to go live on television, radio or prerecorded interview and not being prepared.
Know your biography, as the example given above with the Sony recording artist. You do not want to be caught out there looking like you do not know what is going on. You must know your bio like the back of your hand.
Have all of your social media handles handy so when asked where our listeners can find out more about you. I know it sounds like something that should be second nature, but you will be surprised to how many times a guest has forgotten this info or worse not have any social media presence at all.
One Misstep that I made as an Interviewer
About 10 years ago, I had the opportunity to interview actress Christy Oldham and it was a live interview. Now, before the interview took place I did not speak with Christy directly, I spoke with her publicist about a skit that I wanted to do. Her publicist said that it would be fine, and so, yeah I thought that I would Christy came on to promote her latest movie at the time called Barracuda in her role she played a phone sex operator. not have any issues with her.
So, I asked if she wouldn’t mind doing a role play with me. She seemed shocked, but I will just let you judge for yourself. But since then, I have learned a lot more about picking up on non-verbal clues even if it is by phone.
All in all, what I want to leave you with. Your music is part of who you are, and it is very necessary to promote yourself when you have the opportunity to do so, shine baby, shine!
