The Hired Guns Blog

I give an annual presentation for members of a religious group about how to ensure that their faith is presented fairly in the media and in the rest of society. What they most want to know is what to do during panel discussions, TV interviews, and other unscripted scenarios in which participants aren’t in control and are sometimes taking unfriendly fire. Here’s what I tell them….

Be a “point” guard. First, know your point. Second, deliver your point.

1. Know Your Point

Just because you’re in a live, extemporaneous setting doesn’t mean you shouldn’t come prepared with a point — your belief, your thesis, your truth. But keep in mind that “topics” are not “points.” It’s only a real point if:

a) It fits into this phrase: “I believe that ________________.”
b) It can be stated in a single sentence or two.

For example:

“Occupy Wall Street” isn’t a point, but “Why Occupy Wall Street makes a difference” is.
“Facebook” isn’t a point, but “Facebook, when used smartly, can increase your ROI” is.
“Introducing the next speaker” isn’t a point, but “This next speaker is relevant because XYZ” is.

Everyone speaking in public should have a point, even if you’re simply introducing another speaker or welcoming an audience. Know yours well, and commit it to memory.

2. Deliver Your Point

In most panels and interviews, your #1 job is to share and “plug” your point –- NOT to engage in battle, address other people’s points, or defend yourself personally (no matter how much your host or other guests provoke you). Even when you answer questions, tailor your answers to support your point, and don’t allow yourself to be pulled into someone else’s point.

Remember, your audience is there to receive your point; you’re there to deliver it. Period.

If someone is determined to move you onto their point, consider one of these transitional lines to stand your ground:

“I hear what you’re saying, but my point is… (point)”

“I know that’s a commonly held perception, but the truth is… (point)”

“This is indeed a gray area, but what resonates most strongly with me is (point)”

“That’s a good question, and I hear you. My point of view is that (point)”

As in personal relationships, the simple acknowledgement of what someone else has said goes a long way toward cooling down a contentious exchange.

[Photo of Sean Parker by LeWEB11/Flickr]