Get rid of the grumps or go to A.A. That’s what my friend tells me. In this case, “A. A.” means attitude adjustment class.
Like a disease, a poor attitude can be contagious and make everyone around you sick. By contrast, a positive attitude also can be infectious and make it easier for people to engage with you. This is especially true when people do telephone interviews with reporters.
A reporter on deadline and juggling many details may not come across as warm and engaging. However, a solid, uptempo interview candidate with a good, concise story to tell can at least make the job easier.
To convey a positive attitude in your voice during an interview try these tips:
- Back up the story up with some energy. Consciously think about voice modulation.
- Walk around the room when talking.
- Deliberately gesture to emphasize key points.
- Pretend you are a vocal artist and let the sound come from your diaphragm, not from your throat. It will be a fuller voice that will last longer. One of the best ways to do this is by toning your core. Doing sit-ups not only flattens your stomach, but also strengthens your diaphragm and makes your speaking voice stronger.
Finally, try visualizing the outcome you are trying to achieve through the interview. The image of a full-page article about you or your business should help motivate you towards an energetic interview.