Week 6:Phun with Phoners: 5 Radio Phone Interview Tips

One of the best ways to get ready to host your own radio show is to appear as a guest on other peoples shows.  Many of the most effective radio interviews you’ll do are “phoners”, or interviews conducted on the telephone with a radio show (or in rare cases, a television show).  There are several techniques that are crucial for a successful phoner; here are five of the most important:
 
1)    Always keep in mind that you’re having a one-on-one conversation with the interviewer or host; don’t “sermonize”, or “give a speech”.  Approach the phoner like you’re having a spirited conversation at dinner; be a slightly more animated, energetic version of yourself…but always be yourself.  And, remember to use the hosts first name to make the phoner more personal and warm.
2)    Give valuable insight and information during your interview in short, easy-to-remember nuggets.  Share tips and short stories to illustrate your points.  Don’t worry about “giving away” too much.  The more you give away during your interviews, the more likely listeners will be drawn to you and want to find out more.
3)    Do frequent “re-sets”.  Remember that listeners are constantly tuning in during the time you’re on the air.  So, if you’ve only mentioned your name, the name of your book or topic or other identifying material in the very beginning of your phoner, a large number of potential customers (listeners) will have missed it.  Look for opportunities to naturally work your name, the name of your website, your book, etc. into the fabric of the phoner on a continual basis without sounding like an infomercial.
4)    Minimize “technical” issues with your phoner.  This will enhance the quality and effectiveness of your interviews.  For example, make sure you do interviews on a land-line phone (no cell phones or VOIP) to avoid dropping the call, interference, etc.  Disable your call waiting before you go on the air.  Ask the producer before the phoner for the approximate length of the interview, so that you don’t go too long.  Make sure you’re in a quiet area where you won’t be interrupted by the doorbell, kids, dogs or other noise that can distract you and the listener. 
5)    Own the experience.  Ask the show producer if they can post a link to your website on the station site.  See if you can write a free column for their website.  Promote the phoner in advance with your web and socnet sites.  Remember to ask (off the air) for an mp3 or CD copy of the show.  Then, use that audio for continuing promotion by posting it on your website and social networking sites.  Send a hand-written thank you note after the interview to show your appreciation to the host and producer for having you on the air.
Remember to save the audio from your phoners, and supply them on request to other outlets.  Then, other media pros who are considering having you on the air will have a good point of reference as to what you sound like on the air.
Allen Media Strategies hosts an intensive three day Media Mastery Weekend October 22nd-24th in Washington DC where we work one-on-one with you to perfect your media exposure.  You’ll be interviewed and coached in television and radio studios by seasoned media professionals, take part in a professional photo shoot, learn what a major TV news producer is looking for when booking guests and lots more.  Space is very limited; sign up today at www.mediamasteryweekend.com or call (703) 589-8960 for more information.