Media Training Essentials: Top 5 Phrases to Avoid in Live Interviews

Live interviews can be challenging. The pressure to respond quickly and clearly often leads to mistakes that can damage your message or credibility. Knowing what not to say is just as important as preparing what to say. This guide highlights five phrases you should never use during a live interview and explains why avoiding them will help you communicate more effectively.

Microphone ready for a live interview

Why Choosing Your Words Matters in Live Interviews

Live interviews leave no room for error. Unlike pre-recorded segments, you cannot edit or redo your answers. Saying the wrong thing can lead to misunderstandings, negative headlines, or loss of trust. Journalists often look for soundbites that grab attention, so your words carry weight.

Avoiding certain phrases helps you:

• Maintain control of the conversation

• Stay professional and confident

• Keep your message clear and focused

• Prevent giving unintended information

  
  

Understanding these risks will help you prepare better and respond with confidence.

Phrase 1: "No Comment"

Saying "No comment" is often seen as evasive or suspicious. It suggests you are hiding something or unwilling to be transparent. This phrase can make the interviewer press harder or lead the audience to assume the worst.

What to say instead

• "I’m not able to discuss that right now, but here’s what I can share…"

• "I don’t have that information at the moment, but I will follow up as soon as possible."

  
  

These responses show you are willing to engage without revealing sensitive details.

Phrase 2: "I’m not sure"

Expressing uncertainty can undermine your credibility. While honesty is important, saying "I’m not sure" without offering to find out can make you appear unprepared or uninformed.

How to handle uncertainty

• "That’s a great question. I want to make sure I give you the right information, so I will check and get back to you."

• "I don’t have that data on hand, but I can provide it after this interview."

  
  

This approach shows responsibility and a commitment to accuracy.

Phrase 3: "Off the record"

Many people think they can say something "off the record" during a live interview. In reality, anything you say is on the record unless explicitly agreed otherwise before the interview starts.

Why avoid this phrase

Using "off the record" can confuse the interviewer and audience. It may also damage your reputation if sensitive information leaks.

What to do instead

• Clarify boundaries before the interview begins.

• If a question is off-limits, politely decline to answer without using this phrase.

  
  

For example: "I’m not able to discuss that topic today."

Phrase 4: "To be honest"

Starting a sentence with "To be honest" can imply you have been dishonest before or that what you are about to say is a surprise. It can raise doubts about your previous statements.

Better alternatives

• Simply state your point clearly without qualifiers.

• Use phrases like "What I can tell you is…" or "Here’s the situation…"

  
  

This keeps your communication straightforward and trustworthy.

Phrase 5: "I think" or "Maybe"

Using uncertain language like "I think" or "Maybe" weakens your message. It suggests doubt and reduces the impact of your statements.

How to sound confident

• Use definitive language when you are sure of your facts.

• If you need to express an opinion, frame it clearly: "Based on the information I have…" or "My view is…"

  
  

This shows you stand behind your words.

Practical Tips for Avoiding These Phrases

• Prepare key messages before the interview and practice delivering them.

• Pause briefly before answering to collect your thoughts.

• Stay calm even if the questions are tough or unexpected.

• Redirect the conversation to your main points if needed.

• Ask for clarification if a question is unclear or too broad.

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