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by Becky Krueger on 9.11.2012 in Company News, Public Relations 0

I have a confession to make. I love being on TV. I think it is great when friends call to tell me they saw me on the local news promoting an upcoming event or providing an interview for a special interest story. And if I’m being honest, it sort of bums me out when I go to the grocery store and no one recognizes me. (That has actually never happened, but it would be so cool if it did!)

I realize most people don’t enjoy being in front of the camera, but I promise, it isn’t as painful as you might think. Once you get past that “star-struck” state seeing the reporters live in action, remember that they are just people. If you forget that the cameras are there and just have a conversation with the reporter, the interview can look effortless. One important thing to mention here, don’t look at the camera when you are talking. Always maintain eye contact with the reporter.

Keep your cool. Television is unpredictable, and you should be prepared for that. I’ve been called the wrong name, had a Chihuahua almost bite a reporter during a live interview, and have been bumped for breaking news. You can’t get frazzled. Just roll with the punches and have fun.

One final tip, don’t be late! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve sat in the green room waiting for my segment when the producer runs frantically down the hall looking for a late guest. This totally ruins a producer’s day, and it increases your stress level even more.

Whether your segment is live or recorded, on television or the radio, you can give a good interview. Just remember the basic tips and who knows? Maybe you’ll be recognized in the grocery store!

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