Some of you know that I’ve been doing my own publicity in preparation for my book launch, tentatively scheduled for mid-August. I’ve been reaching out to various media outlets to see if I can get on their shows to talk about my book. While I was trying to time these appearances with the book release, some responses came sooner than expected. One was an opportunity to record a live TV interview, and preparing for a live TV interview takes strategy!
When a TV show gets back to you, you need to be available. You can’t just say, “Oh, can we schedule for next month?” You need to be ready when they respond.
Recently, I recorded a live TV interview for a CBS network, and I’m going to share the top 10 ways I prepared for this interview.
The Surprise of a Live Show
When I reached out to the host/producer to be on the show initially, I had no idea it was going to be live. However, I was pleasantly surprised because that meant I would be on the show and not risk being cut out if it were pre-recorded.
Below Are My Top 10 Preparation Tips
1. Decide on In-Studio vs. Zoom: I decided to be in the studio rather than on Zoom, which I totally could have done. The show was filmed in Northern California, where I’m from, so I decided to take the hour flight from Southern California to visit my family. It was also my birthday weekend, so I stayed with them and recorded the show. Ultimately, I chose the studio because it provided a better sample for other potential shows and a better overall experience. If you have the opportunity to be in the studio I would definitely take that option.
2. Prepare the Host: I sent the host everything needed for the interview, including my media kit, which contained my brand credentials, social media handles, bio, contact info, and links to previous TV interviews and red carpet press. I also sent her talking points. By the time I got to her show, she had everything she needed, and they even used all the info I provided during the airing.
3. Find the Right Outfit: Solid colors are best for TV. I researched the show to see what colors the female hosts typically wore and found that reds, blues, greens, pinks, and purples were popular. I noticed my host wore red a lot, so I chose a lavender color, which turned out to be my brand color.
4. Research the Host: I found out that the host wears a lot of red, so I avoided that. I also learned about some of her hobbies and that she had a great sense of humor and was semi-retired. Knowing the host’s background can be helpful during the interview.
5. Practice Talking Points: I was told I’d have about 3 minutes for my segment, which is very short. I practiced answering questions succinctly to ensure I included everything I wanted to mention. Although some questions were unexpected, I was able to respond effectively.
6. Decide on Makeup and Hair: I got my hair done beforehand and was unsure about makeup since I hardly wear any. After much prayer, God led me to my baby sister, who is great with makeup. She did my makeup at 5 in the morning because I had to arrive by 7:30 a.m. for my segment between 8:00-8:30 a.m.
7. Wear the Right Undergarments: You want to present yourself professionally, so ensure you have the appropriate padding for a cold studio. Also, make sure no bra straps are falling down, and that nothing is see-through.
8. Be Prepared to Share a Call to Action: Unfortunately, my book was not ready, but I shared a link to a freebie on my website, which helped grow my mailing list.
9. Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask questions. You want to be as prepared as possible. I asked if I’d be walking out for my segment, sitting behind a desk, or on a couch, to know what kind of shoes to wear. Before going live, I asked my host if there was anything I needed to know. She told me to look at her while talking and not at the camera. It’s better to ask questions and be prepared.
10. Be Ready to Say Thank You: Say thank you on air and follow up with an email. Not only is this polite, but it also helps build relationships and opens the door for future appearances.
Related: Check Out My Interview Here!
Recap: The 10 Ways I Prepared for My First Live Interview
1. Decide on in-studio vs. Zoom
2. Prepare the host
3. Find the right outfit
4. Research the host
5. Practice talking points
6. Decide on makeup and hair
7. Wear the right undergarments
8. Be prepared to share a call to action
9. Ask questions
10. Be ready to say thank you
I hope these tips help you prepare for your own live TV interviews. Being well-prepared not only ensures a smooth experience but also leaves a positive and lasting impression. Don’t forget to smile throughout the entire process, and have fun!
Listen to the podcast episode here:
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