“Don’t ever do an interview – make it a conversation” – Advice Jack Parr gave to Dick Cavett
It almost seems without effort. His execution is flawless.And again this weekend.
To watch CBS Sunday Morning’s Steve Hartman interview REAL people, you’d think they were long lost friends.
Which is exactly his gift.
You might not know Jack Parr or Dick Cavett from a bucket of chicken.
Watch them work – and learn.
Even facing cantankerous John Lennon, Dick Cavett’s conversation with the famous ex-Beatle and his Yoko – made history.
It certainly was far from an interview but a clear, intimate look into their lives.
The art of the interview eludes most radio talent – because we make it an interview, not a conversation.
We’re faced with diverse sets of ‘interviews’ – local city officials, charity leaders along with regional and national stars.
First – do your homework.
Nothing tells the Listener you don’t know what you’re doing if you’re not in control of the answer – or can regain control if a fastball flies by you.
Second – put the interviewee at ease. Perhaps a nugget of personal information not previously in the spotlight that lifts them up.
Finally – always record the conversation.
Or at least delay.
Imagine if – say – Diane Sawyer were ‘live’ with her conversations.
Yet, we do it in broadcast – every day.
Cancel the interview – book the conversation.
Next Up: 12 Notes
Kevin Robinson is a record-setting and award-winning programmer. His brands consistently perform in the Top 3 of the target – often times as the list leader. In his 35 years of radio, he’s successfully programmed or consulted nearly every English language radio brand. Known largely as a trusted talent coach, he’s the only personality mentor who’s coached three different morning shows on three different stations in the same major market to the #1 position. His efforts have been recognized by The World Wide Radio Summit Radio & Records, NAB’s Marconi, Radio Ink and has coached CMA, ACM and Marconi winning talent. He is also a featured speaker to national groups and state associations. Kevin lives in Indiana with his wife of 34 years, Monica. Reach Kevin at (314) 882-2148 or kevin@audiencedevelopentgroup.com.
