Quick Tips On How To Be A Radio Or TV Guest In Demand
It\’s time to learn the skill set of a professional guest. When you appear on radio and on TV you\’ll need to sound and act like a polished pro. You can do that with a little publicity knowledge. You want to avoid amateur mistakes, like over-promotion, and learn the interview skills to make you the media\’s dream guest.
Tips! When the producer or journalist is contacting you the segment or story idea is already positioned within the format of the media outlet. You have no power to influence the media because they looking for this specific idea or slant. If what they want for the story or segment fits with your point of view, that\’s terrific and the media opportunity will work out for you. If you are not a good fit for the particular point of view they are looking, its best to just say no than to try to change the segment or story idea to be a better fit for you. Don\’t worry, if you are professional, the media will be back to use you the next time. If you are easy to work with, even better, as the media will surely be back with lots more.
Here is a rule never to break: Never cancel an appointment or segment you have agreed to in advance. That\’s right, you just cannot do this. Once you say yes to appearing as a guest on a segment, the entire supporting crew gets to work preparing and coordinating. All system go, you might say. If you suddenly cancel, a lot of people are affected and you put your media contact in peril. It was their job to secure the expert or guest and they have failed to do so. All in all, everyone gets in trouble including you. You have lost your credibility. So, say yes only when you mean yes. Never commit to a media opportunity and pull out as that will follow your publicity career.
Prepare in advance for your pre-interview with the media and for the actual interview. During the pre-interview the media is evaluating you on many levels including your energy, enthusiasm and ability to engage yet provide an expert opinion. If you waffle or appear frazzled, the media will move on. The media is looking for both signs that you are the one they will choose or warning signs that they have to keep looking. No being prepared gives them the big signal for them to keep looking. If you are not able to get your commentary together for the pre-interview where there is little stress, how will you perform when in the hot seat, that is, on the air? So, take the time to find out what is the point of view that media is looking for from you and prepare your five talking points or more.
Always make sure the media can contact you quickly. One big beginner mistake is to miss the media\’s call once you have made contact. The media must move quickly and being able to pick up the phone, call your cell and connect with you is imperative. So, if you are expecting a call from the media, set it up in advance that you will take the call when it comes in. Nothing is more frustrating to the media than to not be able to get in touch with their guest at critical times. Keep your cell phone on, answer it and be a great guest!
Discover additional strategy on how be the media\’s dream guest. If you want publicity on TV or publicity on radio, learning the skill set of an experienced and professional guest is critical. Experience tremendous success with your publicity and promotion initiatives by learning the professional skill set of a great guest. Find out how!