I just learned that an interview I gave in South Africa, has been published in a the South African government magazine – Presidency Update.
The interview was done outside of the Union Building – essentially SA’s government HQ. An official was in the vicinity interviewing foreign visitors about their thoughts of South Africa,
I’m glad and humbled to know that… that of all the views and comments the interviewer gathered from the group of over 10 of us, he decided to include my insights in his final publication.
I say humbled, because all of us were business owners and entrepreneurs, and by virtue of that everybody has some wonderful insights to share.
This got me thinking about some principles and techniques one can use to increase the chances of getting quoted by the media and your interviewer is. So off hand, I came up with three fundamental tips and principles, and how they relate to the laws governing #theartofinfluence:
1) Always think short, simple & succinct sound bites
The key here is memorability. Short, simple and succinctness makes it easy for the audience to register and remember your points.
Too long, and the message gets lost. People find it harder to follow, and your chances of getting quoted falls.
Tip: Using alliteration (words beginning with the same letter) helps. Read (1) again for some examples.
#lawofinfluencenumber5 #communicateclearly
2) General rule of thumb: Always give sincere appreciation
Where possible, be grateful and give sincere appreciation for the positive things you see and experience. You can also give constructive comments about how things are provide some PRACTICAL tips and suggestions on areas for improvement.
This is not a place for complaints or airing grievances. There’s enough suffering in the world; we should strive to highlight strength and stories of love as well.
#lawofinluencenumber1 #knowwhatpeoplewant #positivity #constructiveness #relevantcontent
3) Relate: Empathise, Pay Attention and Connect with the Power of Spontaneity
During my conversation with the interviewer, I picked up a point that South Africans were wary of foreigners because of the bad rep of a few who indulged in world of crime.
At that moment, I was able to relate the country’s political history with the general perception of foreigners… and quickly connect the dots to realise that trust and self-esteem were areas that were generally lacking
That was a reason which for me highlighting Nelson Mandela as a shining example (see article) that the locals can be proud of and a model to present to the world.
That, and their excellent F&B customer service which put most restaurants in Singapore to shame.
The ability to pick up keywords, and empathise with others was a key in helping me provide content and quotes that was relevant to the interviewer.
The ability to #thinkonyourfeet and #speakoffthecuff #spontaneously also helped with fostering trust and connection with the interviewer… and his readers.
#Lawofinlfuencenumber3 #buildingtrust #spontaneity #credibility #connection
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So there you go, here are some quick tips for you the next time you’re preparing for an interview.
If you’d like to read the article in the magazine, you can find it here.
See more photos here:Â https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.582632511892477.1073741833.479370188885377&type=3
The Shy Speakers' Guide to Success 