As a radio guest for twenty times thus far (with three more interviews coming up), below are just a few tips I’d like to share with others from my own experiences:
1. When e-mailing a radio host, briefly introduce yourself and what you do, and explain why you would like to be a guest on their show. Be brief and write in short, simple paragraphs. Always paste a one-page information outlining your topic and field of expertise in the e-mail.
2. Ask what topics their show discusses and see how your topic can fit in. Always voluntarily tell the host what topics you can cover
by giving the main points or talking topics/subject areas.
3. Confirm each radio appearance (date, time, number to call, and what time to call if the guest has to call in )with an e-mail or a call a few days before the show.
4. Ask the host if they would like to have more information from you. It is best to keep an electronic media kit so you can just e-mail the information rather than mailing it (if they accept attachments, of course…be sure to ask if they do before e-mailing any attachments).
5. Prepare yourself for the show with questions you think the host might ask you. I personally don’t physically keep notes; instead, I store everything in my mental treasure box.
6. During the interview, if the host makes a mistake introducing who you are, your company, or what you do, promptly but courteously correct them so they won’t make the same mistake the next time and so the listeners can receive the correct information. The host would thank you for it.
7. Have fun during the interview and smile. People can easily tell whether or not the guest is having a good time. Be relaxed; don’t feel nervous. Hosts and listeners are just people like you and me.
8. After the show, send the host an e-mail thanking them for a wonderful interview and let them know that you’ll be glad to be their future guest.
There are many other tips (i.e. standing as opposed to sitting down during an interview), but they don’t apply to me personally and/or are suggested by many others (i.e. stay on topic, use easy language, etc.).
Shirley Cheng (b. 1983), a blind and physically disabled motivational speaker, poet, author and contributing author of eight books,has had severe juvenile rheumatoid arthritis since infancy, and did not receive education until age eleven. She mastered sixth-grade level in all areas after about 180 days of schooling in her lifetime. After a successful eye surgery, She hopes to earn multiple science doctorates from Harvard University. Despite her multiple disabilities, Shirley is living the life she loves and she empowers, inspires, and motivates others to do the same. Be inspired by her books, including The Revelation of a Star’s Endless Shine, and her newsletter Inspiration from a Blind, to which you can subscribe via her site at http://www.shirleycheng.com
