How Authors Can Prepare for an Interview and Calm Pre Interview Nerves
Author interviews and events can be exciting, but they can also feel intimidating, especially if you are new to them or naturally shy. Whether the interview is for a podcast, a local newspaper, a blog, or a live event, a little preparation goes a long way. The good news is that you do not need to be perfect or overly polished to make a great impression. You just need to feel grounded, prepared, and confident in your story.
Start With Simple Preparation
One of the best ways to feel more at ease before an interview is to do some light prep ahead of time. Research who is interviewing you and what kind of audience they speak to. This helps you tailor your answers without overthinking them.
Most importantly, memorize a few talking points. These are short ideas you can always return to if your mind goes blank. Think of three to five points you want listeners or readers to remember about you or your book. These could include what inspired the book, who it is for, why it matters now, or what you hope readers feel after finishing it. You do not need to memorize full sentences, just clear ideas that feel natural to say out loud.
Practice Out Loud
Reading your talking points silently is helpful, but saying them out loud is even better. Practice answering common interview questions in a conversational way. You can do this in front of a mirror, while driving, or with a trusted friend. The goal is not to sound scripted, but to feel familiar with your own answers.
If possible, record yourself once or twice. Listening back can feel awkward at first, but it helps you notice where you sound confident and where you might want to slow down or clarify.
What to Do If You Feel Nervous
Feeling nervous before an interview is completely normal, even for experienced authors. Nervousness usually means you care, which is a good thing.
If your nerves spike right before the interview, try a few deep breaths and remind yourself that you are the expert on your own work. No one knows your book better than you do. It is also okay to pause before answering a question or to ask for clarification. Interviewers expect this and are usually happy to help.
Another helpful mindset shift is to treat the interview like a conversation, not a performance. You are not being tested. You are simply sharing something you created with someone who is genuinely interested. Focus on the person right in front of you and don't worry about anyone else.
During the Interview
Stick close to your memorized talking points, especially if you feel flustered. If a question throws you off, you can gently guide your answer back to one of those key ideas. This keeps the conversation focused and helps ensure your main messages come through.
Be yourself, speak honestly, and do not worry about being perfect. Authentic answers are far more engaging than rehearsed ones.
Interviews get easier with time and practice, but even your first one does not have to be stressful. With a little preparation, a few memorized talking points, and a reminder that your voice matters, you can show up confidently and enjoy the experience. Your story deserves to be heard, and an interview is simply another way to share it with the world.