Navigating an Interview to Suit Your Message

When you find yourself in a press interview, the key is not only to provide the information requested but also to ensure that your message resonates. Here are some strategies for tactfully redirecting the conversation to topics that align more closely with your personal or professional goals.

Polite and Respectful Redirection

Interviews can be challenging, especially when the questions do not align with your objectives. You can gently steer the conversation back to areas that are more meaningful to you while maintaining a professional and respectful demeanor.

One effective method is to mirror the questions back to the interviewer with a personal touch. For example, if the reporter asks about your personal values, you can redirect while staying true to your beliefs. As an illustration:

Personal Example: Redirecting the Conversation

Imagine the scenario where you are being interviewed by a reporter, but the questions are veering away from your main talking points. Instead of getting defensive or dismissive, you can use a strategic approach:

"If you're interviewing me, I believe it's important to focus on understanding what is specifically interesting to you in this interview. For instance, if you're interested in my values, I would like to share that for me, God is the central focus in my life, and I strive to serve Him as He commands me."

Similarly, if the interviewer asks about your interests, you can redirect in a way that highlights your passion:

"When it comes to my personal best interests, I'd like to share that my goal is to bring joy to all dogs and cats, ensuring they live happily and healthily. This passion drives much of what I do, from volunteer work to professional endeavors."

Strategies for Effective Redirection

To ensure your message is heard, here are some additional strategies for redirecting the conversation politely and respectfully:

1. Acknowledge and Build on the Question

Start by acknowledging the interviewer's question or interest in a positive manner, then naturally transition to the topic you want to discuss. This approach shows respect and engagement while subtly guiding the conversation:

"Thank you for asking about my value in life. I believe the most important value to me is my faith in God, and my goal is to serve Him in whatever capacity I can."

2. Use Analogies and Storytelling

Often, people relate to stories and analogies. You can use these to introduce your main message in a way that is both engaging and relevant to the conversation:

"As you can imagine, when I think about my best interest, it's not just about personal gain, but about making the world a better place for the animals that rely on us for their happiness and care. This mission drives me to advocate for their welfare in whatever way I can."

3. Be Clear and Concise

Be straightforward about your objectives without alienating your audience. This helps to ensure that your message is clear and memorable:

"If you're here to learn about my best interest, then I want to make sure you understand that my primary interest is in serving others, particularly animals, and ensuring they lead happy, healthy lives."

Conclusion

The art of redirection in an interview lies in blending respect for the interviewer's questions with the ability to express your personal message. By doing so, you not only stay true to your values but also make a lasting impact on your audience. Remember, the key is to be respectful, clear, and to always prioritize the core message you wish to convey.