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Using his background in news broadcasting, Paul Carr has taken on the challenge of training others how to deal with the media.
What’s your story?
Media Interview Skills Coach who loves rehearsing media interviews or press conferences with company spokespeople.
What excites you most about your industry?
The fact that since the pandemic EVERYONE is talking to the media from their kitchen, spare room or cafe via zoom. No more going to the TV studio, with layers of security & tedious small talk. Now it’s click & ‘You’re LIVE!’
What drives you in business to push beyond what other people consider normal?
A desire to hear interesting stories. One of the things I enjoy is having someone get me interested in a topic that normally I wouldn’t bother with. Whether it is a spokesperson explaining how their new technology will help the the disadvantaged earn an income or an analyst making sense of a complex geopolitical situation. I help clients find these stories during our coaching conversations.
What have been the most useful skills you have learnt and applied in your journey?
Getting to the point! For many years I sat next to a senior editor at the ABC who would often scream at me as he was approving the news copy I was about to present ‘on air’ “What are you trying to say Carr?” I’d tell him verbally & he’d say with a heavy sigh, then write that for goodness sake. Your ability to read or listen to a message & then put it into your own words is a really useful skill – as a broadcaster & a spokesperson. Finally, make people feel good!
What’s the best piece of advice you ever received?
Nothing is that important it can’t wait til tomorrow. Sleep & wake up early & deal with whatever it is.
Who inspires you?
Bill Maher, Phillip Adams + My Mum & Dad.
What have you learnt recently that blew you away?
My media interview skills coaching is actually more effective via zoom than face-to-face.
If you had your time again, what would you do differently?
I wouldn’t waste my time with people who’s first question is “got discount or not?” If they do eventually engage me they are always such hard work & never appreciate the service I provide.
How do you unwind?
Keeping my gingers & heliconias healthy in an ever growing garden, listening to the BBC & ABC + reading & cooking. I also volunteer with a NGO that cares for & provides meals for migrant workers.
What is a major mindset change, belief shift or ‘ah ha’ moment that you’ve experienced in relation to your business?
Sadly I’ve learned the hard way that a lot of people don’t actually want to apply themselves & master a skill… they just want to be entertained. So as well has being a teacher, these days I’m a ‘song & dance man’ too.
Everyone in business should read this book:
The Well-Gardened Mind by Sue Stuart-Smith
Shameless plug for your business:
Rehearse Your Media Interviews! Imagine being able to answer questions confidently the next time you are interviewed by a journalist. Your peers & clients will recognise you as a trusted authority in your industry. You’re promoting your company – products – events on real media networks across the Asia Pacific and above all you are telling compelling stories with conviction to your target audience.
With some expert input – you’ll soon be able to answer difficult questions with ease, know how to avoid sensitive topics and master the art of moving a conversation from topic A to topic B.
How can people connect with you?
Social Media Links?
Instagram paulcarrmediaskillscoach
https://sg.linkedin.com/in/paul-carr-78900390?trk=people-guest_people_search-card
This interview is part of the CallumConnects series.
