Radio & TV Talk Shows

It is critical to get a sense of what talk shows are about and how they are run. Find out who invites the guests to appear on the show and which shows cover relevant topics. Once prepared, call the appropriate person and make your pitch.

Appearing on TV and Radio

• Be concise.
• Generalize. When appropriate, start with answers like this: "For the most part, yes." "Sometimes." "Usually." "With some exceptions." Then discuss your major point.
• Listen and wait. Make sure you understand the question before you answer.
• Understand that tape interviews will be edited.
• Stay calm. Pause. Think. Smile.
• Ask questions to learn the basics. Do not be afraid to find out about the format, who else will be on, who goes first and especially how long you will be on.
• Be careful of what you say. No matter what the question, always bring it back to your message!

On the Radio

• Focus on your words.
• As far as the listener is concerned, you are sitting right in their living room or car. Do not shout, preach, or give a speech. Use gentle, conversational tones.

On TV

• Moderate gestures help make you interesting.
• Everything you do is magnified.
• Practice, if need be. Act as if you are on camera at all times.
• Dress carefully, conservatively, and wear dark colors. Don't wear stripes or white.
• Never speak in the specific language of your field, rather, choose your words and phrases as if you are speaking to a person unfamiliar with the issue at hand.
• Don't ramble! You can answer briefly and make your point much more dramatically.