3 Ways Your Live TV Interview Is Different Than Your IG or Facebook Live Video

written by Julie Parise

Thanks to social media, people are more comfortable than ever appearing on camera. That’s great because video is one of the largest marketing tools — maybe even the largest. In fact, it’s predicted that by 2022, more than 80% of internet traffic will be made up by video. 

So we know that video is a crucial part of building an audience and gaining publicity. If you’re utilizing it with live video, good for you! 

By creating and appearing in your own social media videos, you’re getting great practice for television interviews. But it’s important to know the differences between the two platforms. You can’t treat a TV appearance — whether it’s local news or a talk show — the same as your social media feed. 

Here are some key differences to keep in mind:

TV is a more formal platform. While many on social media tap into their authenticity by creating a video reel from their bed before even brushing their hair (#iwokeuplikethis), this isn’t how you want to treat a TV interview. Authenticity is great, yes, but it’s all about how you show it. 

Nowadays many TV stations are offering the opportunity to do interviews from the comfort of your own home – which is great! But you’ll still want to look put-together and professional. This means: Find a quiet, clean, well-lit space to do your interview (more tips for your space here!). Sit down at a desk. Maintain eye contact with the camera. 

Don’t walk around with your phone or computer as you’re answering questions. Make sure you’re looking and feeling your best. 

Time is limited. Like, really, really limited. Interviews on television are usually no more than three minutes long. It doesn’t leave time to touch on a ton of details. 

This means short, succinct answers are crucial (more on how to create your messaging here). If you don’t prepare to speak briefly and fairly quickly, you’ll likely find yourself rambling. 

Often, some of the best, most successful social media video bloggers will stay on camera for a long time when hosting their own videos. This may work well for a social platform, but it doesn’t translate to television. 

The interaction is between you and the host. In most TV interviews, you’ll be asked a few questions by an anchor or a reporter. It’s not like your Facebook live videos, where you’re hosting the conversation and have the freedom to take the conversation wherever you want, with whoever you want. 

For example, often we see people on Facebook live stopping mid-message to say “hello” to people who are joining their video, feeling free to turn and talk to somebody else who is in the room, or even letting their pet become a part of the video. 

These types of videos work great on social media — being social is the whole point, after all. But they’re not for television. Focus on the host, and present a message that resonates with the audience. 

If you’re looking to book more television interviews, here are 3 steps to landing your next on-camera interview.