I was on CNA93.8 this week

This morning, I spoke on CNA93.8 about the tragic case of the teenager who was electrocuted charging his phone on an express bus.

When Hairianto Diman pinged me yesterday about sharing my thoughts on air, I quickly said yes before my brain could stop me.

The topic: Should we charge our devices using public USB ports or power points?

Going on air

I am an introvert, don't think I speak that well, and cringe when I hear my voice on air. So why did I agree to go on the radio?

If there's one philosophy I live by, it would be this: Practice makes you better.

This is my consistent advice to executives and professionals who ask. Nobody becomes a thought leader or captivating speaker overnight. Put yourself out there.

Practice speaking at:

• Keynotes.
• As a panellist.
• Media interviews.
• Roundtable discussions.

Don't wait for that golden opportunity. If you can't step up when there's little to lose, you'll risk fumbling badly when the stakes are high.

Opportunities are fickle, but preparation is on you.

Practice whenever you can.

Preparation

Once in a while, I'll meet someone who can speak endlessly on any topic at the snap of a finger. That's not me though.

To make up for it, I prepare.

I've found that I work best with the "full script" of what I plan to say. This means I write the text exactly how I would say it conversationally.

In this case, I break it down into interchangeable sections. Then I enhance readability with the following:

• Headers.
• Paragraphs.
• Bullet points.

See screenshot of my notes in my comment below.

Note: This might not work as well in a more dynamic settings such as on stage or in a smaller group setting where eye contact is expected.

In this case, I was at my desk doing the call via Zoom. So I prepared away.

Enjoy the ride. Then evaluate

Finally, remember to have fun!

I had an absolutely lovely conversation with Andrea and Hairianto, who gracefully pivoted from the original questions to also talk about the charger.

Next will be a self-appraisal to get better.

I couldn't bring myself to listen to the recording yet, but I should probably practice my opening, ease up more, and be prepared to veer slightly off-script.

So this rounds up my simple strategy for an on-air interview.

What about you? How would you prepare for an interview or presentation?

• Check out the 15-minute snippet on CNA here.
• Look for "Charging your devices outside – when does it become unsafe?"