“Picture and sound—perfectly in sync!” That was the mantra at this week’s media training by Skywriters.
Not everyone is a natural-born TV personality—for most of us, the thought of a live interview is a serious stress test. So what should you do when a talk show invitation lands in your inbox? Together with one of our clients, we practiced key skills and techniques in a real TV environment to ensure a confident on-camera presence.
Former VOX editor-in-chief and ARD-Tagesschau journalist Klaus-Peter Schmidt-Deguelle shares five essential tips for boosting confidence in front of the camera:
💁 Master your body language
An open, confident posture is crucial. Avoid closed-off gestures like crossed arms, which may signal insecurity or defensiveness. Use your hands naturally—they can enhance credibility and help your message resonate more effectively with the audience.
👁 Maintain steady eye contact
Both staring intensely and avoiding eye contact can come across as unnatural or uncomfortable. Let your gaze shift occasionally, but stay engaged with your conversation partner. And remember: even when you’re not speaking, the cameras are still rolling. In many studios, the red indicator lights on cameras are switched off, so always assume you’re on-screen.
💬 Keep it clear and concise
If you talk too long, your segment may get cut—or worse, you might say something you regret. Keep your messages short and sharp while making sure your key points get across. If necessary, assert yourself—don’t be afraid to claim your space when you believe in your argument.
⭕ Avoid technical jargon
Overly complex language can alienate your audience. Make your message compelling and relatable by using examples and personal anecdotes. Personalized storytelling makes your message easier to understand and far more memorable.
📚 Do your homework
Prepare for difficult questions in advance, but don’t memorize answers word-for-word—it rarely works and can come across as robotic. Instead, refine your responses with smart teamwork and practice.
And most importantly: practice, practice, practice! Whether it’s in front of a mirror (if necessary!) or with us in a media training session, confidence comes with preparatio
