Presenting a podcast is an art that combines rehearsal, natural conversation, and quick thinking.
Louise Chandler is an experienced broadcaster with 20 plus years on-air experience with the BBC and national radio services.
Here is the Soundbite Media definitive guide to on-air success includes these six essential tips:
1. Speak Naturally
Imagine a Friend on the Other End:
Don’t think of it as talking into a microphone—instead, visualize a conversation with a friend. This mindset helps your delivery sound relaxed and genuine.
2. Control Your Voice
Project Authority, Don’t Shout or Mumble:
Vary your pace and tone effectively. Avoid speaking too loudly or remaining too quiet so each word comes across confidently and clearly.
3. Prepare, But Don’t Script
Use Talking Points Over a Full Script:
Jot down key ideas or bullet points to guide your conversation, ensuring you stay on topic without sounding robotic or rehearsed. This approach keeps your delivery natural, even if you stumble slightly.
4. Find the Right Rhythm
Pace Yourself:
Aim to speak briskly enough to hold interest but slowly enough that your listeners can follow every thought. Striking the right balance is crucial to keeping the audience engaged.
5. Directly Address Your Listener
Make It Personal:
Even though your broadcast may reach a huge audience, use language that makes each listener feel as if you’re speaking directly to them—address them as “you.” This personal connection is one of radio’s unique strengths.
6. Handle Mistakes Smoothly
Keep Moving Forward:
If you make a minor verbal error, simply repeat the word and continue without over-apologizing. For more significant issues (like a prolonged pause or dead air), briefly excuse yourself, then move on confidently. Your audience appreciates authenticity, and a quick recovery reinforces that you’re only human.
By embracing these techniques—conversational tone, controlled voice modulation, prepared spontaneity, balanced pacing, direct engagement, and smooth recovery—you’ll not only sound professional but also create a memorable and credible presence on air.
Let’s chat about your experiences and any additional insights you’ve learned along the way!
Get in touch with Louise today to explore how we can tailor a strategy that combines PR, communications and digital marketing. Together, we’ll ensure your brand thrives in this changing digital world.
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