by Keith Boepple DTM
Being a Contest Master is a joyful honor for me. In the course of the contest, I get to introduce a contestant, then interview them. Recently I was asked what I do to prepare for these dual tasks. Let me use the word SHINE as an anchor for my thoughts.
I Study the “Speech Contestant Profile (SCP)”. This means I look for the deeper meaning beyond what is on the SCP. I notice the order things are written. I home in on their Interests, what inspires them, and favorite quotes.
I Have fun in the process. Too often the interview is simply seen as “giving time for the votes to be counted”. I think about the real purpose of the interview: To give the audience a chance to make a stronger connection to a contestant by letting the person beyond the speech come out.
I become Inquisitive. People are fascinating when we give them the chance. What makes this person special? If I don’t know them, I get the chance to learn something about them. If I do know them, I get to know something new about them. What lies beyond the surface?
I do a lot of Note Taking. The SCP has a lot of open space on it. I use it to brainstorm any questions that come to mind. I write out questions. I highlight words that stand out to me.
I Engage the Contestants. During the Contestant Briefing, as I show them the speaking area, learn the correct pronunciation of their names and speech titles. I listen to what they say. I talk to them. I ask questions. “Why are you competing?” “How was your day?” What I hear gives additional insights that leads to better questions.
This is what I do. It is a skill I’ve learned – as anyone can.
