By Susan Eckert

Tips and advice on being your best straight from the pros

Whenever you have the opportunity to market your service, product or just yourself on radio or TV, GO FOR IT!

The very first time I was to appear on a radio talk show about a subject near and dear to my heart, at first I was thrilled and excited, but as the time drew nearer, I suddenly realized, I was nervous and more than a little unsure of myself.

How not to let a lack of confidence diminish your star quality, or your ability to convey your message

Fortunately, I realized I was more excited than nervous, so I talked to the pros—by my own definition that meant anyone who had been on TV or radio at least once.

It was a great move. They passed along some great advice and tips that I now share with you below. By the way, these tips enabled me to go on the air, make my points clearly and confidently, and have a great time while doing it!

1. Do your research

Find out who your host will be. What’s their background—is there anything you can appeal and/or relate to?

If possible, observe or listen to this individual ahead of time with others. What’s his/her style? Sense of humor? Pet peeves?

Getting familiar with whoever might be sharing your airtime will help to create a sense of familiarity that will be of tremendous value in feeling comfortable, quickly.

2. Outline your key speaking points

If you’ll be on radio, it’ll be easy to keep them handy. Make sure they are clear and legible so they can actually be useful. Don’t write too much. Instead, keep simple bullets that capture main ideas or messages.

On TV? You’ll have to memorize your key points, so even more important, keep things simple. Above all, know this: What are the key 3 messages I want to get across? Use whatever supporting methods or devices you want to use (e.g. mnemonics: If your three main messages are to: Build, Maintain, then Work-up to your goal over time, you might want to envision a BMW)

Tip: Are there any products, websites, etc. you want to plug while on the air? Remember to incorporate these as appropriate, or allow your host to do so—some actually prefer to do it themselves. Doing your research ahead of time will inform you about how best to handle this piece.

3. How do you want to come across?

Do you want to entertain? Come across as a consummate professional? How can you differentiate yourself from others with similar messages who might also be getting airtime?

Plan how you’ll come across, then dress the part. Even if you’ll be on the radio, dressing the part will help you to feel the part, and therefore, come across as you want to. It will also encourage others to interact with you in the way that you want them to.

4. Identify your fears, concerns and reasons for self-doubt

What are you afraid of?

What’s the worst that could happen?

Envision it and then let it go. List all the reasons why you will be successful, and then believe it will be so. (And, it will!) Allowing your thoughts to linger on your fears, and concerns will create a self-fulfilling prophecy effect—bringing to reality the very things you worried about in the first place.

5. Now, conquer your fears

Do whatever it will take. There’s always a first time. So, if it’s your first time, allow yourself a little space for imperfection.

What’s your coping mechanism? So long as it’s healthy, use it.

6. Have fun

Above all, remember to have fun. If you don’t expect to enjoy it, then don’t do it. Life is too short.

So: Lights, Camera, Action. Now, show your stuff!