This one’s for all you hosts, whether it’s TV, radio, a panel, a social media video, or a podcast. When you’re the one asking questions, you need to be mindful of how long those questions are.

Sometimes I watch TV interviews and the hosts just won’t stop talking. They ask what seems to be a pretty straightforward question, but they just can’t seem to wrap it up and they keep on talking. Sometimes a question can end up be 20-30 long; and when that happens the guest is put in an uncomfortable position.

The guest just sits there, waiting to talk, trying to figure out what to do. Do they keep nodding in agreement while the host is talking? That looks really awkward. Do they jump in and start answering? Also, awkward. Or, perhaps they just sit there, doing nothing, desperately waiting for the host to finish their point? None of those options are good!

As a host, don’t put your guest in that position. Plus, the longer your question goes, the more confusing it often ends up being. The point you made when you started talking might get really convoluted, and by the time you finish speaking the guest might not even know what you were asking in the first place. Remember, not every question has to win an Emmy. Make them as short and sweet as you can, and engage in a conversation.

Have faith that you asked it well, and that there’s no need to keep asking it. Trust yourself, and your ability to be succinct. And, get on with it 😊.

If you’d like to work on your hosting, just reach out to me here.

Have a great day!

Dave