How did I ace my first LIVE interview on Star TV ?
For Earth Day, April 2004, Clear The Air Hong Kong received an email from
Anjali Rao’s team, then the prime anchor at the Asian channel Star TV,
inviting us for a LIVE interview.
The 12-minute segment focused on Hong Kong’s environmental challenges,
particularly heavy air pollution, and our NGO’s efforts to address them;
all questions to be asked by the gracious Anjali Rao.
Unsure and "slightly panicking" how to prepare, I consulted a TV-experienced contact who shared key media tips.
These 24 points became my “media preparation Bible.”
Here are three:
✅ Keep your message radically simple enough for a 9-year-old to
understand.
✅ Treat the interview like a casual fireside chat.
✅ If unsure how to answer a question, smile and pivot with, “I think the real point is… ” followed by your key message.
I loved the experience and didn’t even think on the 12 million viewers,
whether it’s 300 or millions, the audience size is irrelevant.
If a speaking opportunity like this comes your way, LIVE or not, and you
need guidance, feel free to reach out, I might be able to help.
