Award-winning radio journalist Bob Edwards recently delivered a candid, intriguing presentation on the art of interviewing for MediaBistro at the National Press Club. Between audio clips of his interviews and stories about the making of those interviews, Edwards answered several questions. His answer to my question surprised me most.
When asked about his biggest lesson in the field, Edwards didn't talk about ensuring balance in a story, or question preparation, or even mastering new topics. He talked about finding your own distinctive voice. His hardest habit to break was abandoning the voice of a journalist he admired, and creating that unique sound, style and cadence we've all come to recognize through his more than 30 years in radio.
And, this advice is relevant not only to broadcasters, but to those of us who conduct interviews, focus groups, client consultations, and any number of person-to-person forms of inquiry. That includes journalists and freelancers, social researchers, recruiters and headhunters, performers, consultants and more. Discovering and wielding our authentic voices -- through the flood of others' voices inside and outside our own heads -- is a skill that's key to success. It's that unique voice that inspires and engenders confidence, trust and respect in those with whom we communicate.
What are some ways to harness your unique voice?
- Use your own words and terminology
- Approach the interview as a conversation
- Convey your interest and happiness to be there
- Begin with smalltalk instead of diving into the questions
Gaea Honeycutt
blog@weirdingword.com
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