Let’s talk about an interview tip that often gets overlooked: Brevity.

Listen, I can take one question and turn it into a whole conversation—because when I get going, I’m jumping from one gem to the next like it’s Sunday brunch with my girls on an LA rooftop. But when it comes to media interviews, you don’t always get that kind of time; you get the spotlight for a moment. And you’ve got to know how to work it.

In interviews, whether you’re on the news, a podcast, or someone’s Instagram Live, keeping it short isn’t about cutting yourself off; it’s about making your message shine brighter. It’s about knowing your worth and speaking with intention. Think Viola Davis in an acceptance speech—gracious, powerful, and direct.

Why Short and Sweet Wins

Here’s why this tip is valuable to you:

• Journalists need soundbites. They don’t have time (or data storage space) for a whole background story. What they want is your key message, wrapped tight and ready to quote.
• Your audience needs clarity. People tune out fast. If you don’t grab them quick, you’ll lose them. Say what you came to say before their attention moves on to the next thing.
• Your brand needs consistency. Long-winded responses often lead to tangents that stray from the original topic. Keeping it short keeps you aligned with your purpose, values, and voice.

Let me be clear…This does NOT shrink your message—it sharpens it! Think of it as removing all of the instruments from your favorite track so you can hear the lyrics clearly.

How can you keep it short?

Here are 3 ways to help you.

1. Lead with the main idea.

What do you want people to remember when the interview ends? Say that up front. No need to dress it up— just go in!

“Our mission is to make sure every family in our community has access to clean water.” Period. See what we did there?

2. Keep it centered.

Don’t try to explain everything. Pick one or two points and stay grounded in those. That’s how you make sure that what you’re saying is easy to follow.

3. Practice speaking with intention.

Get comfortable timing yourself. Rehearse answers in 30 seconds or less. Trim the extras. You’ll still sound like yourself, but you’ll appear more sure.

Want to Practice This for Real?

This is just one of the powerful lessons in my new digital workbook, Media Training on the Go. It’s designed for professionals, creatives, students, and leaders who want to present themselves with clarity and confidence in interviews.

Inside, you’ll find:

• Clear strategies
• Real interview scenarios
• Practice exercises
• Bonus tools like prep checklists and pivot phrase templates

Best of all, it’s a digital download that arrives in your inbox seconds after you place your order.

Grab your copy now at AriParsonPR.com.