So you have pitched your heart out and got recognized and greatly rewarded for your efforts: you are now the newest member of the morning shows panel. Now, what?
I often see people on T.V or hear them on the radio and just cringe. There is something to be said for a little bit of media training or coaching.
Here are a few things to keep in mind before you open your mouth to speak.
1. K.I.S.S: Keep It Simple Stupid
- Don’t get too complicated.
- Remember you need to talk to a wider audience …one that might not know anything about you, your product or service.
- If you keep it conversational then you will ensure you are telling your story in a way everyone will understand
2. Slow Down
- This is something that seems easy but can actually be very difficult to do when the camera or microphone is right in your face.
- Many people have a tendency to speed up when they talk to the media, thanks in large part to nerves. Remember, RELAX and pace yourself.
3. Be Prepared
- Prepare for your media spot by jotting down a few key points on some cue cards you can review before you get on set. These cards act as a guideline for the discussion in your mind. This will help you stay on message. Cards will help you pace yourself and keep the nerves at a minimum because you KNOW what you want to say.
4. Think Before You Speak
- Think about what you are going to say before you get in the studio. The cue cards will help with this too. Filling out cue cards before your appearance will help you figure out what you want to say.
5. Be Yourself
- This is the best way to come across as a genuine expert.
- Don’t try to be anyone else other than yourself.
- You got your media feature/segment because the journalist liked your pitch. They want you so be yourself.
6. Relax
- Don’t get too stressed out ( O.K. easier said than done sometimes)
- Enjoy the spotlight.
- You are in the chair because the person interviewing you (or the show) feels you have something valuable to say so go with it!
- Breath.
There are a few things to keep in mind no matter what kind of media interview you find yourself in. Always remember to be of service to the journalist and their audience. Remember all the important E words when it comes to media…Entertain, Engage, Educate, Enlighten. Keep those top of mind and you will ace your performance and get the publicity you want and deserve.
