Articles

It is amazing to know that there are only a handful of public relations firms out there that truly know how to harness the power of public relations . Which comes as no surprise since media interviews are among the most effective yet least known marketing methods you could ever use.

Interviews can be fantastic public relations opportunities, but you really need to maximize your time on-air!

Marsha Friedman, Chief Executive Officer of EMSI, a nationally pr firm says " As with most things, there are insider techniques that can help radio and TV interview 'first-timers' do a powerful job. In fact, here are eight":

1. Like the Boy Scouts, 'Be Prepared.' Before going on, make sure you're fully prepared with facts, figures and anecdotes to talk about when you're on the air. Use a "cheat sheet' with your best info. Marsha Friedman says, "The viewers or listeners will know if you are full of information or full of "you know what." So make sure to be prepared, or you will totally lose their attention."

2. Practice makes perfect. Marsha Friedman adds, "One of your key challenges is staying 'on-message.' Hosts and their viewers can throw you off topic in a heartbeat. Your challenge will be to know how to keep your on-air balance. Never been interviewed by the media before? Well then why not get a media coach. Got experience already? Then keep sharp with mock interviews with your colleagues." Be sure you're fully prepared to handle ANY questions that come your way.

3. Public Relations is not a One-Day Thing. Public relations campaigns are not a one-time deal and should be developed into a longer national approach. The longer that you are out there on television and talk radio, the more you will recognized as an expert in your industry.

4. Got a Schedule? Then Pack it With Interviews! You should conduct as many media interviews as possible. Marsha Friedman adds, "Talk radio interviews can be an unsurpassed way of informing millions about your product!without leaving the comfort of your home or office."

5. Be Ready for Anything! Media appearances should be thought of as 'instant promotional opportunities,' and you need to be available when they are. Marsha Friedman adds, "That means anytime!" The more that you appear on-air, the more visibility you will gain!which leads to sales!

6. Sparkle on air. When you are really enthusiastic about something, you can not only hear it in your voice, but it is also catchier than heck. Marsha Friedman says, "To keep the audience attentive, you need to maintain a high level of interest throughout the interview. No matter if it's your first or hundredth!"

7. Keep the audience listening. Always remember that media is about entertainment first. The trick, of course, is to be both informative and entertaining. Do that and you'll often find the host jumping in to help you promote your message!

8. Focus on Being a Proper Time Manager. Key to success with media interviews is how effective you use air-time. A great interview or a complete bust will hinge on how well you keep these three things in mind:

1. Be entertaining, 2. Be informative, and 3. Educate.

Well, that's it. These 8 tips should help you with your media interviews. If you would like to learn more about gaining national media exposure for your company, product or service, without the financial burden of monthly retainers, Marsha would love to help. Feel free to contact her directly at mfriedman@emsincorporated.com or visit her firm online at http://www.emsincorporated.com. As a PR expert Marsha has the ability to get the media attention that you desire without monthly retainers .

Marsha Friedman has been a leading authority on public relations for nearly two decades as CEO of Event Management Services, Inc (EMSI). If you would like to receive her free Ebook "How to Be a Great Talk Radio Guest" visit her firm online at www.emsincorporated.com.