When promoting a new book, authors often find themselves in the spotlight, eager to discuss their work, ideas and passions. Yet, amid the excitement of sharing their message, there can be a lurking concern: What if an interviewer’s questions veer into uncomfortable territory? How can you gracefully navigate discussions on sensitive topics without compromising your message or integrity?
It’s important to tread carefully, especially when faced with interviewers who may not share your perspectives or even challenge your beliefs. It’s in these moments that the art of “bridging” becomes invaluable — a strategic technique that allows you to steer the conversation so that your key points are highlighted.
Here are a few tips:
Show empathy toward the interviewer’s concerns or questions
Acknowledge their perspective, then smoothly transition to a related topic that you want to discuss. For example, “That’s an interesting point, but what’s really important here is…”
Take the essence of the question and reframe it in a way that allows you to address your key messages
For instance, “I understand your concern about X, but what I think is crucial to focus on is…”
Be an active listener by paying close attention to the interviewer’s question to ensure you understand their concerns or interests.
This allows you to tailor your responses more effectively and find relevant bridges to your key messages
Offer a concise response to the question and then smoothly pivot to a different topic that aligns with your messaging.
Transition by using relevant examples or anecdotes
Use conditional language with phrases
For example “If we’re looking at it from another angle…” or “While that’s important, let’s also consider…” to introduce your desired topic.
Stand strong while staying calm and confident throughout the interview
Staying positive and professional will help you build a better rapport with the interviewer and leave a positive impression.
Other phrases that might be helpful to shift the conversation:
“That’s one way to look at it, however…”
“I can appreciate your perspective, but let’s also consider…”
“I am really glad you asked that, because…”
“Let’s look at it from a broader perspective…”
“Have you considered the equally important question…”
“Well, another issue playing into this is…”
“That reminds me…”
“Speaking of which…”
“That’s very interesting, but what I really want to say is…”
While bridging and deflecting techniques are useful, it’s also important to address the interviewer’s questions to some extent so you don’t appear evasive or insincere. Balancing these techniques with genuine engagement and responsiveness can help you successfully navigate interviews, especially if there are sensitive topics being introduced.
Check out our other interview tips here:
https://booksforward.com/tips-for-authors-preparing-for-an-interview/
Angelle joined the Books Forward team in 2014, and her experience and dedication has led to her being named our lead publicist. Her distinct pitching style and effective research has secured media coverage for our authors and their books in Vanity Fair, Buzzfeed, The Associated Press, The New York Times and USA Today, as well as countless regional media outlets.
Our authors love Angelle’s meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to their vision and their books. Other publicists frequently spend time learning from her — how to ask probing questions, find the right person to contact and craft a successful pitch.
She began her professional career at news outlets across the country before surrendering to her love of books. An award-winning journalist whose own work has appeared in local and national publications, including NPR, she is tenacious in finding the right angles to utilize for each campaign and connecting with the right reporter for the job.
Angelle can usually be found at a concert, working on Mardi Gras costumes or taking photos of random cats that she meets wandering around New Orleans.
