How to Prep for Live Interviews or Panels

How to Prep for Live Interviews or Panels

Live interviews and panels are high-impact visibility moments—but they’re also high-pressure. In 2025, attention spans are shorter, competition for airtime is tougher, and audiences are sharper. Whether you’re stepping onto a stage or dialing into a livestream, how you prepare can mean the difference between a forgettable soundbite and a lasting impression.

Here’s how to show up sharp, confident, and on-message—every time.

Start With the Why

Ask yourself:

• Why am I doing this interview or panel?
• What audience am I trying to reach?
• What do I want them to think, feel, or do after hearing me speak?

Every appearance should have a goal. Clarify yours before you touch a talking point.

Know the Format

• Live panel vs. one-on-one interview: Are you sharing time or solo?
• Virtual vs. in-person: Will you be seated, standing, Zooming, or on a stage?
• Moderated vs. free-flowing: Will there be guided questions or audience interaction?

Each format requires different pacing, posture, and prep.

Craft Your Anchor Messages

You’re not there to recite a script—but you do need 2–3 key ideas you’ll circle back to. These might include:

• Your unique point of view
• A stat or story that proves your thesis
• A phrase or framework that’s easy to remember

If the moderator or audience walks away with just one thing—make sure it’s something you chose.

Practice Bridging and Reframing

Great speakers know how to answer the question they wish they were asked. That’s where “bridging” comes in:

• Q: “What’s your biggest challenge right now?”
• Bridge: “Great question. What’s been surprising is how that challenge has revealed a larger opportunity…”

Stay on message—without sounding evasive.

Anticipate the Tough Stuff

• What questions could trip you up?
• Where are you vulnerable or still learning?
• What’s off-limits—and how will you pivot if it comes up?

Have phrases ready that are calm, clear, and honest.

Don’t Just Prep—Rehearse

• Film yourself answering likely questions
• Time your responses (60–90 seconds max is ideal)
• Have a friend or colleague do a mock interview

Confidence isn’t built in the moment—it’s built in the reps beforehand.

Pro Tips for the Day Of

• Hydrate early: Dry mouth will tank your delivery
• Dress for the medium: Texture and color matter more than brand names on camera
• Don’t over-caffeinate: Energy is good. Jitters aren’t

Final Thought

Media doesn’t reward rambling—it rewards clarity. Panel moderators don’t remember blur—they remember bold. Show up prepared, grounded, and generous. Your voice is your brand. Own it.