Articles

It has become more competitive than ever in today's current business climate. Thousands of products are flooding the market on what seems like a daily basis. How can you stay competitive and keep consumers educated about your company, product or service? By using the power of public relations!

PR can help you reach a broad national and local consumer base through talk radio, television and print.

Television is one of the most popular of these mediums as it seems that everyone nowadays wants their "15 minutes of fame." "The audience thinks that if you are on tv you must be a celebrity of some sort, so when you appear as a guest on a TV show your credibility goes sky high" says Marsha Friedman, Chief Executive Officer of EMSI , a national public relations firm. Here Friedman will shed more light on the television medium and offer some insights on how to get the most out of your time on-air.

1. TV is a visual medium. TV shows communicate to their audience through pictures as well as conversation." Marsha Friedman says, " Producers look for newsworthy topics that are visual and entertaining. They want compelling conversation and pictures that will grab their viewer's attention."

A great method to getting your visual together is thinking like a child. How would I explain it to my son or daughter? What pictures can you use that will translate into graphics for a TV story? " As an example, if you sell life insurance your 'visuals' could be graphs of the mortality rate of women vs. men to match your conversation about why women need to protect themselves and their children against the loss of their spouses" adds Marsha Friedman.

2. All newscasts have different demographics. Marsha Friedman says, "All of the main newscasts of the day are directly targeted to a drastically different audience . The early morning shows are usually watched by working adults and families getting ready for school. Afternoon shows are more geared to lifestyle segments. Finally, the evening shows are focused on news." Once you know your topic and message, check and make sure what newscast you would benefit the most from when you are appearing on the show as a guest.

3. Work on sound bites. As opposed to talk radio interviews, TV interviews are short (typically 3 to 5 minutes) so you have to be REALLY sharp about knowing exactly what the message is that you want to leave the audience with and how to get it across in such a limited time. Marsha Friedman says, " Before you go on air really get your sound bites down. Practice does make perfect, especially if you are going to be seen by millions nationwide!" 4. Don't look like a slob. There is nothing worse than seeing a television show guest who looks like a slob. The sad truth is that audience members are not really going to believe a person who looks like a bum. Marsha Friedman adds, " Make sure you look good as your appearance will make a lasting impression. Pick out and wear the clothes that fit and are flattering. Are they clean and pressed (not old and ratty looking)? Do your shoes look professional? Try not to wear a shirt with a loud pattern or you will give viewers a headache. " A clean and sharp look will help people focus on your message, rather than your outrageous appearance.

So now you are ready for your close up! If you would like to learn more about gaining national and local media exposure for your company, product or service, without the financial burden of monthly retainers, Marsha Friedman 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 public relations expert Marsha Friedman has the ability to get the media attention that you desire without budget busting monthly retainers.