Thought Leadership Series
Today’s special guests are Kim and Mike Barnes of Barnes Team Media. They bring a unique perspective as they both worked on the news for 30 years. Kim was an award-winning reporter and news anchor for 15 years, including more than a decade at KVUE in Austin. Mike was an award-winning sportscaster at KVUE for over 29 years. He was named Best Sportscaster in Austin for 17 years and Best in Texas four times.
Now they coach clients on camera impact in virtual communication, video and media interviews, and public speaking. They also recently launched a business named Parenting Aging Parents to support and guide others who are busy balancing careers, raising kids, and caring for aging parents.
In today’s interview they share powerful takeaways to help you immediately improve your interview skills. Whether you’re an introvert or extrovert, you can show up comfortably and composed in interviews. They share how confidence in speaking in front of others is a state of mind and a choice you make.
When it comes to preparation, Kim and Mike share that asking the host questions in advance is key to preparing to have a great interview. Focus on the key points you want to make and any stories you can share about them.
Something many interviewees don’t realize is that you’re in control of the conversation and you get to choose how to answer every question and that helps you steer the interview the way you want it to go.
Think mindfully about how your words are coming across and speak clearly on your speaking topic, so that the audience can easily understand and follow along. Avoid jargon.
Kim and Mike teach how to overcome nerves and fear with the reminder that you’re the expert on your business and your life’s stories. They share advice on how to get out of your head when you feel stuck, so that you can confidently, authentically connect with the audience and enjoy the process.
Tune into today’s episode to learn how to become a great interview guest with Mike and Kim Barnes.
This episode at glance …
> (5:00 - 5:20) Remember that the audience is listening to you as the expert and you need to own that. It can help you control the conversation.
> (5:25 - 6:00) Don't think about everyone who will watch or listen to the interview. Keep your focus on the interviewer or if you're speaking to a camera, then imagine one single person who enjoys everything you say and have a conversation with them.
> (6:00 to 6:20) It doesn't matter whether you are an introvert or extrovert. Neither makes you better or worse as an interviewee. Showing up confidently is a state of mind and a decision you make ahead of time.
> (6:25 - 7:00) Even if you're comfortable in interviews, that doesn't necessarily mean you're good at it. You still need to think in advance about the most important things you will share with your audience.
> (8:30 - 10:00) To set yourself up for success, there are some critical details you should ask the host in advance.
> (14:00 to 17:59) How to handle interviews when the interviewer isn't asking you the questions you really want to answer. Learn how to take control of the conversation while staying positive and friendly.
> (18:25 - 22:48) Learn how to give soundbites.
> (23:50 to 30:38) How to authentically connect with your audience, especially in the online world.
> ( 30:47 to 35:00 ) How to let go of the fear of sharing your story and knowledge. Don’t wait to give interviews until you're ready or you never will.
Links in today's episode to connect with Mike and Kim Barnes & with Christie
https://www.instagram.com/barnes_team_media/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/barnesteammedia/
Download my free guide: 10 Tips to Grow Your Business as a Podcast Guest
Instagram: https://instagram.com/christiebilbrey
