# TV appearances: how to prepare for an interview or talk show on camera > A TV appearance is a chance to build visibility and credibility, as long as you're prepared. Find out the format, length and topics in advance, define two or three key messages and practice short answers that make sense on their own. On camera, what counts is calm body language, looking at the person you're talking to rather than into the camera, and understated clothing. Practice with video recordings so the situation doesn't catch you off guard. Speaking confidently on camera isn't a gift. It's a skill you can train. - URL: https://michaelsinnhuber.com/en/blog/tv-interview-tips/ - Language: en - Last updated: 2026-10-28 - Author: Michael Sinnhuber - Deutsch: https://michaelsinnhuber.com/blog/tv-auftritt/ Not long ago, I was a guest on Kurier TV together with two colleagues from Kleine historische Städte (Austria's Small Historic Towns), a marketing cooperation of small Austrian towns. We talked about our cooperation on the [Kurier Talk](https://kurier.tv/kurier-talk/eine-reise-in-die-kleinen-historischen-staedte-oesterreichs/403012846) (in German). It was a great experience, and moments like that make one thing clear: **a TV appearance is a big opportunity, if you know how to use it.** For many people, though, an invitation like that feels more like a challenge. What if I don't get my message across? What if a tough question comes up? What if nerves get the better of me? Those worries are understandable. And with preparation, you can make them a lot smaller. ## Why a TV appearance is worth it An appearance on TV, in a video format or an interview reaches people you'd never reach otherwise. It boosts your visibility, your credibility and your network. At the same time, it's less forgiving than a talk: the camera catches every gesture, and one unfortunate sentence might be the very one that airs. ## 8 tips for your TV appearance ### 1. Find out the format Ask the production team in advance: is it live or pre-recorded? How long is the segment? Who else is on? Which topics are planned? The more you know, the less can surprise you. ### 2. Define your key messages Decide on **two or three messages you want to get across no matter what.** Phrase each one so it fits into two or three sentences. That's your anchor, whatever questions come your way. For more on getting a message across, read [What is public speaking?](https://michaelsinnhuber.com/en/blog/what-is-public-speaking/). ### 3. Answer in complete sentences Especially in pre-recorded pieces, often only a short clip ends up on air. So answer in a way that makes sense even without the question. Instead of "Yes, exactly", say: "This initiative shows that small towns achieve more together." ### 4. Bring examples A short story or a concrete example sticks with viewers. Abstract statements don't. Prepare an example for each key message that you can tell in a few sentences. ### 5. Look at the person you're talking to In an interview or talk show, you look at the host or the other guests, not into the camera. You only look into the camera when you're explicitly asked to. It looks natural, and it gives you something to hold on to. ### 6. Keep your body language calm The camera amplifies every movement. Sit upright, leaning slightly forward, and keep your hands calm. Gestures are fine, but smaller than on stage. More tips in [What to do with your hands during a presentation](https://michaelsinnhuber.com/en/blog/hands-presentation/). ### 7. Choose understated clothing Wear something you feel comfortable in that suits the occasion. Fine stripes and small checks can flicker on screen, very loud patterns distract. Solid, mid-tone colors almost always work. ### 8. Practice on camera The most important tip: **practice in a low-stakes setting before it counts.** Have someone ask you the most likely questions and record your answers on your phone. You'll see immediately where you ramble, where you dodge and how you come across. ## And if nerves kick in? Being nervous before a TV appearance is normal, even for people who are on camera a lot. It shows that the appearance matters to you. For what helps you deal with it, see [overcoming stage fright](https://michaelsinnhuber.com/en/stage-fright/). ## Speaking confidently on camera can be learned I can say from my own experience: **when you're prepared, you can not only handle a TV appearance, you can actually enjoy it.** Speaking with confidence isn't something you're born with. With the [House of Speaking method](https://michaelsinnhuber.com/en/house-of-speaking-method/) from my book ["3, 2, 1… Reden ist jetzt Deins"](https://michaelsinnhuber.com/en/book/), you practice exactly that, step by step. And when a specific appearance on camera is coming up, we prepare it together in [coaching for speaking on camera](https://michaelsinnhuber.com/en/public-speaking-coaching/video-social-media/). ## Bottom line **A TV appearance is an opportunity, not an exam.** Find out the format, define your key messages, answer briefly and in full sentences, and practice on camera. Then you'll make the most of the moment instead of just getting through it. ## Frequently asked questions ### How do I prepare for a TV appearance? First find out the format, length and topics, and whether it's live. Then define two or three key messages you want to get across no matter what, and practice short answers to them. Record yourself on video so you can see how you come across on camera. ### Should I look into the camera during a TV interview? Usually not. In an interview or talk show, you look at the person you're talking to, the host or the other guests. You only look into the camera when you're explicitly asked to, for example in a remote interview where you're alone on screen. ### What should I wear for a TV interview? Something you feel comfortable in that suits the occasion. Avoid fine stripes and small checks, which can flicker on screen, and very loud patterns. Solid, mid-tone colors almost always work. When in doubt, ask the production team if there are any guidelines. ### How long should my answers be in a TV interview? Short. Plan your key message so it fits into two or three sentences and makes sense even without the question. Especially in pre-recorded pieces, often only a short clip ends up on air.