Your Radio Interview: 5 Tips to Help You Shine

by Louise M Moore

Do not underestimate the significance of a radio interview. Like television, newspaper and magazine, a radio interview is a wonderful opportunity for you to promote your product or service. Because there are so many radio stations--terrestrial, Internet and satellite--it is often easier to secure an interview on radio than on any other medium. However, due to possible scheduling issues with the radio host, limited broadcast availability and the time it takes for you or your publicist to arrange it, an interview should never be taken for granted. It is excellent exposure so be appreciative and make the most of it. One interview may be better than another depending on the interviewer so do not be discouraged if you feel you did not get as much out of it as you could have. But regardless of who is on the other end of the phone or across the microphone from you, your goal is to make every interview a good one. Here's how.

1. Be on time. Always respect the time of the radio host and make sure you are on time for your interview. If your interview is over the phone, dial in a few minutes prior to the designated interview time. If it is an in-studio interview, make sure you have the radio station mapped out at least the day before and give yourself plenty of advance time to ensure that you will not be late.

2. Prepare talking points. Your talking points are very important. Use neon highlighters to emphasize the most important items. Do not assume that you will remember everything you want to say. Have specific information like upcoming events, web addresses, phone numbers and key messages listed as bullet points for easy reference.

3. Use the interviewer's name. It is a good practice to use the interviewer's name frequently. You will appear more personable and it will certainly create a more comfortable setting for you, the interviewer and the listening audience.

4. Have a glass of water. Everyone may not agree with me but I always recommend accepting the bottle of water when interviewers offer it. Otherwise, definitely ask. For phone interviews, keep water handy. Sometimes when doing a lot of talking, your mouth may get dry and, if needed, you can take sips of water in between questions.

5. Smile. Yes, you are on the radio and no one can see your smile but they can sure hear it. Your topic of discussion may be a serious one but every chance you get, smile while you are talking. Let your personality shine over the airwaves. You will come off as pleasant and cheerful to the listening audience.

Any opportunity to share information about your product or service with a captive audience is golden. That is why it is critical that you develop good habits for your radio interviews. It is your time to shine.