Don’t Gabble!

When interviewed on radio or television, a lot of people are nervous, for obvious reasons.  A common reaction when in this state is to speak too quickly, but gabbling doesn’t give you authority, and it doesn’t give you time to think about what you are saying.  If you are prone to this, take a few deep breaths before you go on and practice speaking more slowly (without making it boring).  It will add authority and give you time to think.  It’s also a good idea if you’re talking to a reporter for a written article.  Slowing down your pace of speech will give them more time to write down accurately what you’ve said.