After sending out (what seems like) millions of press releases everywhere, you finally get a break! You’ve been invited to appear on a television show. Is that great or what? Well, maybe not. If you’re not prepared you may find your day in the spotlight might just wind up being a disaster.

Here are some ways to overcome this happening and extend your fifteen minutes a little longer.

• Be sure to watch the show first, if at all possible. Take a look at the format and watch closely how the host or hostess dresses. You want to dress in a similar manner.
• When on the air, avoid color choices such as black, bright white or busy patterns. Limit your jewelry to main essentials and wear a hair style that doesn’t distract from what is being said.
• One thing the host of the show will love is any props or visual aids that will help make your point in an interesting way. This will help instill your message even longer.
• Don’t attempt to do a sales pitch or react obnoxiously. Ask the producer the best way to mention your products or services beforehand and they will usually mention your book title in your intro and flash a website address or toll free number across the screen during your interview.
• Never read from a script. While it is crucial that you have prepared and rehearsed what you might say when asked, sounding like you’re reading from a script won’t win anyone over (or get you rebooked). And, don’t forget to use humor when appropriate.
• One-word answers come across as boring and will leave the host wondering what to say next. Having interesting answers prepared before you go on will make you sound professional and keep the audience’s interest.
• It’s okay to have a different point of view or even be a little controversial, but again, there is no reason to be obnoxious when you speak. Always remain calm and show courtesy to everyone on the show.
• And, last but certainly not least, make sure you communicate two or three key points on your subject showing everyone you are the expert, and call the host or hostess by name.

Most of all… just relax and have fun while enjoying the spotlight!

May your fame always come from stardom and never from infamy – unless you do so by choice!

Carmen Wisenbaker, The Publicity Diva
(alter ego and pen name: Casey Lee)
carmen@penworth.com
Speaker, Author, Marketing Coach
Penworth Publishing & Publicity
www.penworth.com
(281) 404-5019