Media Appearances | Susan Harrow: Recent Episodes
Media Appearances Archives - Susan Harrow
SUMMARY: Becoming a standout public speaker involves more than just crafting speeches—it requires media exposure, enthusiastic delivery, and effective branding strategies. From captivating your audience to booking dream speaking engagements, these seven articles offer invaluable tips and insights for speakers at any level. By mastering communication skills, managing nerves, and honing storytelling abilities, you can elevate your public speaking prowess and leave a lasting impact on your audience.
Table of contents: * How to Be a Fabulous Public Speaker: 7 Inspiring Tips + How to Create a Great Speech. + Seven Articles to Send You on Your Path to Public Speaking Greatness: + 1. Capture and Keep Your Audience’s Attention. + 2. Develop into a Top Professional Speaker. + 3. Build Your Brand by Starting Small. + 4. Book Your Dream Speaking Engagement. + 5. Make People Want More of You. + 6. Cope with Your Nerves and Rock Your Speech. + 7. Prep Your TED Talk. + Bonus: 10 Ways to Master Your Communication Skills. How to Be a Fabulous Public Speaker: 7 Inspiring TipsWhether you’re attempting to break into the world of public speaking, or you’re already a seasoned professional handling large crowds with ease, you need to have an edge over your competitors — and be seen as the speaker of choice in a league of your own — in order keep bookings coming.
Being in the news and writing a book are two sure-fire ways to gain the attention of meeting planners, speakers’ bureaus and organizations. Having a book adds major credibility to your skillset, and the traction gained by news coverage can make choosing your brand a no-brainer.
Find out the two ways to gain the attention of meeting planners, speakers’ bureaus + organizations in this article.
Click To Tweet
Why is this? People naturally gravitate towards speakers they have heard about. They feel like they know you already, and are coming to catch up on what’s new, or get the inside scoop on your latest offering. When you appear on TV, on the radio, or in print, to the average person, you’ve already been “vetted” by the media. A mention on a national show or publication serves as a badge of honor if you’re not already famous. And being able to put that logo on your website and speaker’s materials automatically sets you apart.
How to Create a Great Speech.But that’s not where it ends. Now that you’ve got some media exposure and a few gigs booked as a public speaker, you have to deliver the goods. Creating the bones of a good speech is not only necessary, it’s also a crucial part of your winning strategy. However, that’s not all it takes — a truly great speaking engagement is a work of art in structure and delivery. The audience wants to see that you’re enthusiastic, authentic and humorous. Your value as a public speaker is increasingly enhanced if you have a great product or service to sell and the lovability to get booked again and again.
Your value as a public speaker is increasingly enhanced if you have a great product or service to sell + the lovability to get booked again + again.
Click To Tweet
Here Are Seven Articles to Send You on Your Path to Public Speaking Greatness:1. Capture and Keep Your Audience’s Attention.In this piece, speaking pro Chris Widener covers everything. From a simple media training technique to get 20 to 35 percent of your audience to buy, to how to know what to charge and creative ways to get hired even when associations, corporations or companies claim they don’t have a budget.
2. Develop into a Top Professional Speaker.This article is perfect for those of you looking to break into the professional speaking field, covering the 10 steps to becoming an impressive motivational speaker. Joel Brown, a successful CEO in his own right, breaks down the media training tools you need to succeed and make the most from your speaking arrangements.
3. Build Your Brand by Starting Small.This round-up is useful for entrepreneurs of any level looking to book speaking engagements. The Young Entrepreneur Council goes over points even the most developed of us forget, like the ultimate Do-It-Yourself PR training strategies, make it happen meetups, and how to start local, then go global.
Find the ultimate Do-It-Yourself PR training strategies inside.
Click To Tweet
4. Book Your Dream Speaking Engagement.In this article, Susan Tardanico goes over how we can do what the pros do and book the speaking engagements of our dreams. Given that over 90 percent of communication is nonverbal, Tardancino shares media training tools that can help you communicate better with body language. The article also discusses the pitfalls of PowerPoint and how to find your most useful personal stories to create memorable encounters with your audience.
5. Make People Want More of You.In this piece Tim Ferris — public speaker and famed author of the New York Times Bestseller, The 4-Hour Workweek — goes over the perfect formula to be the best professional speaker in town. These masterminded media coaching tips include how to prepare seamless 10-minute segments, what not to do before heading on stage, and what jokes are better left for the break room.
6. Cope with Your Nerves and Rock Your Speech.Sweaty hands, dry mouth, the trembles? Find out How to manage your anxiety – and your body – to rule the stage. With the right media training techniques, standing up in front of a large crowd doesn’t need to be daunting.
7. Prep Your TED Talk.Guy Kawasaki gives his take on Carmine Gallos’s advice from the book, Talk Like TED: The 9 Public Speaking Secrets of the World’s Top Minds. If you’re itching to be a thought leader or have something creative or provocative to share with the world, work on your TED talk. In the speaker’s realm this is one of the fastest ways to becoming known, followed, loved – and booked.
Bonus: 10 Ways to Master Your Communication Skills.Solid advice for both beginners and experienced speakers about how to manage your inner life as well as your outer actions. “It’s about helping others by meeting their needs, understanding their concerns, and adding value to their world.” Ultimately, this is what all good speaking is about.
Share a favorite moment (or blooper) from one of your public speaking engagements. Our mistakes can often be a catalyst, creating the best connections with our audience.
Zen of FameSubscribeFree ConsultThe post How to Be a Fabulous Public Speaker: 7 Inspiring Tips first appeared on Susan Harrow.The post How to Be a Fabulous Public Speaker: 7 Inspiring Tips appeared first on Susan Harrow.
SUMMARY: The National Publicity Summit provides a valuable chance to connect with top journalists and producers, either virtually or in person, and gain national media exposure. With over 75 media professionals attending, participants can pitch their stories and stand out. Preparation is key, including concise pitches, appropriate attire, and impactful visual props. Gaining permission for follow-up communication can enhance opportunities to get an interview or be booked on a show. Early registration and strategic planning are essential due to limited spots available.
Table of contents: * National Publicity Made Easy: 5 Must-Know Strategies + Meet Over 75 Producers and Journalists. + Stand Out - 1. Prepare your pitch. - 2. Look the part. - 3. Make it visual. - 4. Create a beautiful, moving, stunning or shocking experience. - 5. Open the door. + 10 more tips from a three-time attendee: + Apply here to attend: National Publicity Made Easy: 5 Must-Know StrategiesYou can get big-time national publicity by personally meeting top journalists and producers face-to-face – and now, since COVID, via Zoom – at the National Publicity Summit held by Steve Harrison.
At the National Publicity Summit, participants will discover how to get featured in America’s prestigious Magazines, on big blogs, and interviewed on the top TV, radio and podcast shows.
After a quick review, MayDayReport.com states that it believes this event is a tool that can help people get more publicity and recognition. By being at the National Publicity Summit , publicity hopefuls will get to meet some of the most influential people at top media outlets. These relationships are what will give the participants the exposure they need to get booked and appear on national TV and in major magazines, newspapers, radio, and podcasts.
5 tips to get national publicityMeet Over 75 Producers and Journalists.At the event, guests will meet over 75 producers and journalists from America’s top media outlets. Anyone looking to get exposure would be wise not pass up this opportunity. Unfortunately, as most people who have tried to get publicity know it’s usually very difficult to get top journalists and producers to even take a phone call or open an email.
However, by joining Steve Harrison’s virtual, closed-door National Publicity Summit, guests will have the opportunity to learn the secrets to garnering coverage as well as meeting with top editors and producers one-on-one.
If you are looking to get media exposure, you can meet over 75 producers and journalists on Zoom at the National Publicity Summit. Learn more in this post.
Click To Tweet
Consider this your media speed dating. And prepare accordingly.
You have two and a half minutes to “get a date.”
How to get on national TVThere are a limited number of spots available so that everyone gets enough one-on-one time with the media. The summit is currently offering 100 spots, and they always go fast!
Plus, he has an early-bird special, so you can save by applying early.
Stand OutAlthough you will be one of 100 participants, you still have to stand out and gain the media’s interest. So, here are 5 ways that you can do that:
1. Prepare your pitch.Keep it simple and be ready to explain your business, book, product, service or cause in 20-30 seconds. Position yourself in the marketplace so the journalist or producer understands what sets you apart from your competition. Have statistics to prove your point. Facts speak loudly in a sea of hype.
2. Look the part.Dress as you would if you were actually appearing on TV. This means not only being well-groomed with clothes that fit you like a fashion model, but be sure to choose an outfit that represents your brand. You want to give the look and feel of whatever you’re representing and promoting. If your product is humorous, you might have a piece of jewelry or clothing item that makes someone laugh.
3. Make it visual.Cameras love costumes. Cameras also love tactile. The great thing about props is that they are a shortcut to sound bites. Visuals can often explain a complicated concept or idea more quickly than words. So plan your shortcuts and bring eye-popping props that help tell your story. Stuff that the media need to interact with is a plus.
4. Create a beautiful, moving, stunning or shocking experience.Experiences are what people remember. That’s why perfume ads show a glamorous man or woman lounging in a tropical island all smooth and beautiful and looking languorously happy. Perfume promises us a luxurious experience with the man or woman of our dreams. It’s not about smelling good to cover up the stink after you’ve been cooking onions, is it? No. You’re selling an experience. So create a scenario where you can take the journalist or producer through an experience where they get the FEEL of whatever you’re promoting.
5. Open the door.Even if a journalist or producer isn’t interested in the idea you pitched, ask permission to connect with them again when you have another idea. Sometimes your pitch just needs a twist, a different angle, or a timely event to make it right. Getting explicit permission helps ensure your follow-up call or email will get considered. And to be memorable when you reconnect, mention your visual or the experience you created to jog the media’s memory.
Here are 10 more tips from a three-time attendee:“The National Publicity Summit was easily one of the most worthwhile events I have attended – the speakers were inspiring, the topics were relevant, and Steve Harrison runs a world-class organization. Not only did they provide insider information and actual training, but we had meetings with the decision-makers on the spot. I have had several interviews for Project Happiness as a result, and many more in the pipeline. A rare and valuable opportunity for anyone interested in jumpstarting their PR campaign,” says Randy Taran, founder of Project Happiness.
To get immediate access to a ticket for the National Publicity Summit and make your experience a profitable one follow these five strategies and make your mark with the media.
Apply here to attend:Apply NowThe post National Publicity Made Easy: 5 Must-Know Strategies first appeared on Susan Harrow.The post National Publicity Made Easy: 5 Must-Know Strategies appeared first on Susan Harrow.
SUMMARY: Are you struggling to get featured in the media? It might be your attitude holding you back. Discover 7 harmful attitudes blocking your path to publicity success, from body image concerns to feeling ordinary. Learn from role models like Oprah and Anne Hathaway, who embrace authenticity. Remember, being yourself is key to media success. Ready to change your mindset? Start here.
Table of contents: * 7 Harmful Attitudes Blocking You From Getting Featured in the Media and Getting Great Publicity + Get Publicity the Right Way so it Works. + Harmful Publicity Attitude #1. + Harmful Publicity Attitude #2. + Harmful Publicity Attitude #3. + Harmful Publicity Attitude #4. + Harmful Publicity Attitude #5. + Harmful Publicity Attitude #6. + Harmful Publicity Attitude #7. + Relax. 7 Harmful Attitudes Blocking You From Getting Featured in the Media and Getting Great PublicityNot getting featured in the media?
Feeling tons of “resistance” whenever you sit down to work on your press kit, pitch or press release?
Can’t seem to “crack the code” on how to get top bloggers, journalists, editors podcasters, and producers to pay attention to your work?
Frustrated that your replies to HARO and other PR services and don’t get any response?
Feel like, deep down, you “know” what you ought to be doing to take your visibility to the next level… except for some reason, you’re not doing it?
Over the past 34 years of my career, I’ve spent over 150,000 hours (that’s a very conservative estimate) training entrepreneurs, authors, founders, speakers, consultants and coaches to help them get featured in the media and then use that exposure to double or triple their business and increase awareness and loyalty to their brand.
Get Publicity the Right Way so it Works.I always ask my clients, “Why are you having trouble getting press for your business?” One client said she had done literally hundreds of radio shows, with few results, and had no idea what she was doing wrong. Many other clients have similar stories. Those are the ones that say that “publicity doesn’t work.”
Just as typically my clients tend to point towards something “external” (like: “My press releases doesn’t really represent what we do” or: “My website looks dated.”)
Fair enough. I agree: having all of your materials looking professional is very important. Your presence and what you say when you’re in the spotlight is too.
But in my experience? If you’re consistently struggling to get your business, book, product, service, cause or mission in the media, or your media appearances just don’t have much of an effect, the source of your “blockage” usually boils down to one thing:
Your attitude.
Your attitude stinks! Could that be what’s holding you back from getting major media?
Click To Tweet
In other words: What you BELIEVE about yourself and your ability to serve.
This may sound harsh, but it’s actually a very empowering thing to realize. Because once you’ve identified the harmful attitude that is holding you back, you can take steps to resolve it. Hopefully: once and for all.
Think your attitude is just fine, thank you very much? That may be true.
But it never hurts to do a little self-exploration.
Read on and see if any of the following 7 attitudes sound a bit like… you.
Harmful Publicity Attitude #1.“I’m too fat to be on TV or get publicity. Maybe if I lose 20 pounds first…”
Why you need to change your ‘tude:
It’s been reported that 97% of women have at least one “I hate my body” moment, per day.
Imagine if every woman who thought to herself, “Ugh, I don’t like how I look” allowed those thoughts to STOP her from seeking media opportunities. We would literally have almost ZERO women appearing in the media. What a dismal world that would be!
Harmful weight-related attitudes aren’t just for women, of course. Men can — and do — think these kinds of thoughts, too, but generally, they don’t let that hold them back.
If you feel that you need to drop some weight, for your overall health, go for it. But in the meantime, don’t let “size shame” halt your progress. Not everyone who appears in the media needs to be a rail-thin supermodel. There’s room for all kinds of ideas, personalities and sizes.
Have you thought this: I’m too fat to go on TV? Don’t let that hold you back.
Click To Tweet
Your media role model:
Oprah, of course.
She has publicly battled with her weight for decades. Even at her absolute lowest weight, she wore a size 10! Now with the help of Ozempic or the equivalent, she’s shrinking again. Yet at any poundage she’s perfectly comfortable talking about health, happiness, well-being, and “living your best life” — in front of international audiences. People respect her opinions, completely. If she can do it, why not you?
Harmful Publicity Attitude #2.“I’m so boring! My life has been relatively comfortable and easy. I haven’t overcome an extreme adversity, don’t have a rags to riches story, or anything ‘gritty’ to share.”
Why you need to change your ‘tude:
Not everything in the media needs to be “gritty,” “caustic,” “violent” or “dramatic.” And we’ve certainly had our fill of rags to riches stories, haven’t we? You don’t need to have become homeless and lived under a bridge, eaten from garbage cans or been swindled out of a fortune by your business partner to get media coverage.
In fact, I would argue that today’s audiences are so bombarded with “drama” that they are delighted for an escape from the madness. (There’s a reason why compilations of viral videos like this one are so popular.)
You don’t need to be rude, crude or rough around the edges in order to get booked in the media. You just need to be yourself.
If the “real you” is a positive person who was blessed with wonderful parents and a joyful childhood, so be it. You still have ideas, tips, strategies and stories to share, you can still be entertaining, you can still be insightful and you can still help people to lead better lives. Suffering is not a prerequisite for service.
As my friend Alex puts it, you don’t necessarily have to “overcome adversity in order to know stuff.”
Your media role model:
Kelly Clarkson
Kelly has built a huge media platform anchored on “traditional values” like kindness and compassion. She consciously steers away from gritty or violent topics. The description of her show is: Singer Kelly Clarkson offers heartwarming stories, live musical performances, games and surprises.
She’s known for delivering audiences a daily dose of positivity — complete with local heroes who are doing great things in their community. That’s who she is and what she does best.
If you are the “Kelly” of your industry, embrace it! Don’t try to change yourself for the spotlight. You will feel awkward, uncomfortable, and struggle to successfully make the “point” that you’re there to make — and audiences will be feeling uncomfortable, right along with you.
Just be you. “You” is what works.
Harmful Publicity Attitude #3. “All of this media preparation stuff — like setting up my website or meeting planner page — is too hard! I’m terrible with technology.”
Why you need to change your ‘tude:
To quote the folks at this design firm: “If Google can’t find it, it doesn’t exist.”
That’s the reality of our world today.
If you are unwilling to set up a website, participate in social media, and create materials that are quickly searchable (and findable) online — like a backlog of recent press releases stored on your site — or a press kit — you are going to have a tough time getting the kind of media coverage you want. Especially since Google is the number one tool the media use to find sources.
Terrified of tech? Not Betty White. Follow her lead.
Click To Tweet
Your media role model:
Betty White.
Even at age 99 this actress, activist and product spokeswoman had a vibrant Twitter presence and showed no signs of slowing down with her career, despite her age—until her death.
Her manager joked, “Betty and I have an understanding. I have told her that I have already booked her when she turns 100 and there is no out clause. Betty never backs out of a date.”
Another role model for you:
Theresa Reed.
As a professional Tarot card reader who has been reading cards — full time — for over 25 years, Theresa has a steady stream of “regulars” and could certainly opt to “rest on her laurels.” But that’s not her style.
She is constantly learning new tools, upgrading her website, and experimenting with new ways to connect with audiences around the world (including starting three of her own podcasts). She firmly believes that all business owners need to be tech-savvy, and she even mentors “tech-phobic” entrepreneurs to help them grasp the basics.
Theresa is regularly a go-to expert on Tarot, astrology and spirituality blogs, podcasts and magazines. The secret to her success? Well, as she put it — while talking to a friend of mine — “I ain’t no stale hippie.”
Harmful Publicity Attitude #4.“I’m not the world’s most credible expert on this topic. Other people are much more experienced and authoritative than me.”
Why you need to change your ‘tude:
There will always be people who are more highly credentialed than you are. That’s a fact.
“Comparing and despairing” when you size yourself up to your competitors is very counter-productive.
Don’t compare and despair when your competitors appear on TV, podcasts, Lives or radio
Click To Tweet
Yes, of course, there are people who might have more degrees, certifications or years of experience than you. But that doesn’t detract from your ability to serve your audience in your way, right now.
The real question is this: Do you have something to share — right now, today — that could help a fellow human solve a problem, get inspired, or lead a better life?
If so, then you’ve got the most important “credential” of all: something of VALUE to share.
Your media role model:
Gabby Bernstein.
Gabby is one of the world’s most sought-after media commentators in the realm of personal growth and spirituality.
Does she have a PhD in psychology? Nope. (She actually studied “theater” at college). Is she a Nobel Peace Prize winner like The Dalai Lama? Nope. Has she published formal, academic research papers? Nope. Has any of that ever stopped her from pursuing opportunities to write, appear, and get interviewed in the media? NOPE.
She has personal stories to share and insights that she knows will help people.
And share she does. With videos, audios, TED talks, lectures, meditations, courses, books, products, and a podcast, a spirit junkie app, and stuff she loves. And if that’s not enough you can enroll in the “Get More Gabby” subscription service. Phew!
Harmful Publicity Attitude #5.“I just don’t have time for all this stuff! Between running my business, taking care of my clients/customers, and dealing with my family… I don’t have a minute to write press releases, build relationships with journalists, maintain my website, and… ugh!”
Why you need to change your ‘tude:
Life is unquestionably busy. As a business owner, there will always be “something” pulling at your attention.
But if you want to grow to the next level, serve wider audiences, and sell more of your books, products, courses and services (without spending money on advertising), then getting featured in the media needs to be part of your plan.
As Stephen R. Covey, author of the bestselling book The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People said, “The key is not to prioritize what’s on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities.”
If getting media coverage is a priority for you (and it should be!) then it must be treated as just that: a priority.
This may mean shutting down lower-priority projects for the time being or learning how to delegate more effectively. (If you’re struggling to stay focused on the action steps that really count, this training program can help you stay on track.)
Your media role model:
President Obama.
As president he was arguably THE busiest man on planet earth — with an unthinkable level of stress resting upon his shoulders.
Yet he still created the time to write guest articles for The Huffington Post, contribute exclusive interviews to People magazine, occasionally, even tweet personal notes to his followers, and appear on TV talk shows to discuss his latest thoughts on basketball or a new bill in Congress.
Did he have a team supporting him? Of course. The point, here, is that Obama recognized the importance of making media coverage a top priority. It’s not something to ignore or neglect. It’s vital to his success as a thought leader.
Harmful Publicity Attitude #6.“I’ve never been good at public speaking. It’s just not my thing. I’m going to freeze, blush, giggle, burp, sweat, snort, forget my ‘lines’ and mess this up… somehow. I just know it.”
Why you need to change your ‘tude:
No one wants to watch a “perfect robot” on the air or listen to a “slick and polished” presentation. If you go “off script” during a media appearance, it can often work in your favor. Little flubs can be endearing and humanizing.
This is something I talk about a lot in one of my media training programs, The Zen of Fame. If you’ve got your sound bites down pat — meaning: you’ve chosen a couple of key messages that you really, really want your media audience to remember and “take home” — then it’s pretty tough to mess anything up. Just stick to your sound bites and allow yourself to relax. If you’re too slick? We want to topple you off that perfect pedestal. Be yourself. Quirks, nerves, sweats, burbs and all.
Your media role model:
Anne Hathaway.
While appearing on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart to promote her film at the time — which she produced and starred in — Anne lost her composure and began laughing hysterically. Why? Because the plot of the movie (which deals with a coma victim) is so dreadfully, horrendously sad, it was actually… kind of funny.
Rather than sitting back in horror, fans LOVED it. Multiple media platforms (Vanity Fair, E! Online, US Magazine) shared the now-legendary giggle-clip, using words like “charming” and “adorable” and “utterly endearing” to describe it!
As one journalist put it: “This feels real candid. I don’t know if Anne Hathaway has ever been so likable. This is how you sell a movie, even when it’s a coma movie.”
Harmful Publicity Attitude #7.“I don’t deserve to be featured in the media. I’m ordinary. I’m not special.”
Why you need to change your ‘tude:
Let me ask you this:
Has an “ordinary” person ever given you a piece of advice that made your entire week better?
Has an “ordinary” person ever shared a resource with you that saved you tons of time or brought you hours of delight?
Has an “ordinary” friend, colleague or family member ever said something that motivated you to change an unhealthy habit and improve your life?
“Ordinary” people have the power to serve, educate, inform and inspire, just as much as rich, famous “celebrities” or “authorities” do.
If you have something of value to share — whether it’s a product, service, book, mission, cause, or day-changing tip, tool or idea — then you deserve to be in the media.
The brilliant Marianne Williamson had it right when said, “We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world.”
Your media role model:
This “ordinary” mom from Sumter, South Carolina.
She recorded a video of herself singing her baby to sleep and spontaneously posted it online. When she woke up the next morning, her video had gone viral. After a radio station shared it on Facebook, it got 4 million views. TV stations started calling. She was featured on Good Morning America and the host said that this could be the big break she’s been waiting for to become a singer. This mom became — literally! — an overnight sensation.
Her voice is very pretty, yes, but the real reason that her video touched the hearts of millions of people is that… she is ordinary and heartfelt. There was no artifice in her singing. Just a mom, home, in a dimly lit room, rocking her baby to sleep, singing as if no one was watching.
Moral of the story?
Your “ordinary-ness” can be THE quality that makes you appealing to the media and to audiences, worldwide.
“Ordinary” is not the same as “boring.” You can be totally un-flashy and still wow audiences with your ideas, stories and talents.
Musician Sam Smith who has won five Grammy awards said, “I just want to say that before I made this record I was doing everything to try to get my music heard. I tried to lose weight and I was making awful music. It was only until I started to be myself that the music started to flow and the people started to listen.”
Allow yourself to be exactly who you are. We want to see your blemished self. Not a prettified version of someone you think you should be.
That’s the approach that will resonate most strongly with audiences — and get the media calling you back.
Final words:
Getting booked in the media is one thing.
Translating media attention into sales… is another.
Simply getting “interviewed,” “featured,” “quoted” or “mentioned” in the media does NOT guarantee that people are going to actually buy your program, products and services or hire you for speeches or consulting.
To accomplish that, you’ve got to have specific systems and processes in place that turn curious callers or new website visitors into paying customers.
Those systems and processes are exactly what I teach inside my training program: The Zen of Fame: Your Genius Gone Viral.
If you want to learn how to get featured in the media and use and get publicity to grow your business and brand ― while keeping your integrity intact ― this course was created for you.
The program is ongoing and you can begin your training any month, any time, and get access to all the goodies immediately. Join us here.
Rather work with me 1:1? Book a time to talk.
Book your Free ConsultationRelax.Let’s just see if we ignite together.
Zen of FameSubscribeFree ConsultCheck out our PR and Media Training Workshop to Jumpstart your Publicity
The post 7 Harmful Attitudes Blocking You From Getting Featured in the Media and Getting Great Publicity first appeared on Susan Harrow.The post 7 Harmful Attitudes Blocking You From Getting Featured in the Media and Getting Great Publicity appeared first on Susan Harrow.
I had no idea what I was in for when I attended the National Publicity Summit in New York City—focused on how to pitch the media and get booked on the spot and later. (Now the Summit is via Zoom – The next one is March 11-23, 2024)
National Publicity Summit NYCSUMMARY: Learn the best tips from journalists and producers on pitching the media successfully. From proving your expertise to being available immediately, these insights will boost your chances of getting noticed and booked. Create controversy, know editorial calendars, and continue connecting with media contacts. Bonus: Be willing to be a last-minute guest for added opportunities. Start implementing these strategies now to instantly enhance your media pitching abilities.
Table of contents: * How to Pitch the Media: Best 5 Tips From Journalists and Producers + Here’s what happened…. + Here are the 5 Best Pitching Tips From Journalists and Producers: - 1. Prove you're an expert. - 2. Be available immediately. - 3. Create controversy. - 4. Know the production schedule/editorial calendar. - 5. Continue connecting. - BONUS: How to Pitch the Media: Best 5 Tips From Journalists and ProducersHere’s what happened….Steve Harrison talked for a bit about how to approach journalists and producers to get the best results when pitching the media.
Then dozens of them (from the Today Show to O Magazine) filed into the room and each told us what was most important for them. How they wanted to be pitched, their pet peeves, and ideas about how to get their attention.
After that they marched into another room and then we all stood in line for the media we had chosen to pitch them for 2.5 minutes each. Whoa! Mind spin! Eureka!
While the summit is now virtual so there is no marching about, you can rest at ease and enjoy meeting the media in the coziness of your home or office. Either way their insights on how they want to be pitched are the same…
How to pitch the mediaHere are the 5 Best Pitching Tips From Journalists and Producers:1. Prove you’re an expert.Some producers of major TV shows wanted 3-5 words in the subject line shows you are an expert for your topic. Example: “Female pediatrician from Chicago… FILL IN YOUR IDEA HERE.
Many asked me to be sure to link to my media appearances when I followed up with them. While others told me that they could see that I’d make a good guest — by the way I pitched them in person.
Remember that we get who you are in just 1/4 of a second — a blink of an eye — called thin slicing. The next 30 seconds is proof of an initial impression—which will be proven out in your demo video on your press kit page. Make sure you have one.
A TV Demo Video is a must-have to prove that you are mediagenic #publicity #authors #leaders
Click To Tweet
National TV appearance demo video2. Be available immediately.One journalist bemoaned the fact that he often received email pitches he was interested in, but when he responded immediately with a call he was greeted with…silence. No one answered his call. No one called right back. We often think we’re an incredible, irreplaceable expert. But that’s just not true.
Since journalists are often on demanding deadlines they can’t necessarily wait for the most qualified source. “Be available the same day you send the email,” he advised. “The person who answers the phone first gets in the story.”
3. Create controversy.Can you make a “fight” sheet? A series of statements where you state why you disagree with the status quo or something another expert said? There is a time to be inflammatory — if it’s true to your brand. Taking a strong stand sets you apart from others fast.
Apply Here!4. Know the production schedule/editorial calendar.Producers and editors want you to suggest ideas for upcoming shows/articles they’re working on and to be aware of what has already aired/been published. Don’t pitch a story that’s been done!
You can find out what the producers are looking for by searching the “Be on the show” link on many major shows . You can find the yearly editorial calendars for magazines on their individual websites. Typically the magazine plans its “theme” 12 months ahead.
Remember that hard copy magazines plan 3-6 months out. For digital content, a month or two’s notice is ideal to be published. Magazine editors will plan content beforehand, but also leave room for new pieces to be inserted for trending or topical issues.
5. Continue connecting.I can’t tell you how many of the 150 journalists and producers mentioned that it was important to continue to connect with them. Often your pitch isn’t an exact fit for the time or topic. But it could be in the future. The never-ending news cycle gives you a daily opportunity to tweak your topic to fit into whatever happened that day or week.
You may need to reach out 5-10 or more times before your idea lands. When I was a publicist what worked was to be top of mind by staying in touch with a consistent stream of ideas – and then to call when breaking news happened. I often booked my clients this way — simply by staying in touch.
BONUS: Also, put in your pitch that you’re willing to be a last-minute guest. Be ready to hop on a plane to be in a TV studio or jump on Zoom. Guests get waylaid for all kinds of reasons, including something as simple as the weather or a sick child.
ZEN ADVICE: Rick Young, a Madison Square Boxer turned radio host, (who pulled out O’Sensei’s the founder of Aikido’s book The Art of Peace, in his backpack when I told him I was a black belt in Aikido) said, “Start from here you are. Go after your dream.
Rick Young, a Madison Square Boxer turned radio host, (who pulled out O’Sensei’s the founder of Aikido’s book The Art of Peace, in his backpack when I told him I was a black belt in Aikido) said, “Start from here you are. Go after your dream. J.K. Rowling started from somewhere. There was a time when we didn’t know who she was. Everyone starts from a time when we didn’t know who they were.”
The best time to start? Right now.
For more info about attending The National Publicity Summit to meet the media in-person via Zoom go here: https://prsecrets.com/publicity-summit
Apply Here!The post How to Pitch the Media: Best 5 Tips From Journalists and Producers first appeared on Susan Harrow.The post How to Pitch the Media: Best 5 Tips From Journalists and Producers appeared first on Susan Harrow.
SUMMARY: Learn the critical media interview mistakes to avoid to safeguard your career. From waffling during interviews to neglecting to share how you’ve helped others, these errors can tarnish your reputation. Ensure you’re prepared with concise messaging, quotes from industry leaders, and compelling stories of impact. Transform your wounds into wisdom and have well-formed opinions ready to showcase your expertise. Mastering these media strategies will enhance your media presence and speed your career trajectory.
Table of contents:* 5 Media Interview Mistakes: That Could Crucify Your Career + 1. You Waffle. + 2. You Don’t Quote Industry Leaders or Competitors. + 3. You Don’t Tell How You’ve Helped People. + 4. You Don’t Transform Your Wounds Into Wisdom. + 5. You Don’t Have Your Opinion Ready. + Avoid Media Interview Mistakes Now. 5 Media Interview Mistakes: That Could Crucify Your CareerIn this new age of social media 3.0, the media is more often searching for experts when they have the need rather than pouring over hundreds of useless press releases that don’t have information that is relevant for their audience. So even if you haven’t sent out a press release you could get that important call from the media – if you’ve positioned yourself correctly on the Internet.
On the flip side did you know that now with YouTube, TikTok, Instagram and Time Machine that what you say could haunt you forever?
Once a video of you is posted or something you said shows up on the Internet there’s no way to take it back. With the advent of technology what you say will stay around in eternity and anyone can access it at any time.
This is why it is so important that you pay attention to what you say and how you say it — before you blast it out.
That’s right, your reputation, your credibility, your brand, your livelihood could disappear with one bad article or one TV appearance gone south. But it doesn’t need to be so.
Don’t make these five media interview mistakes:
1. You Waffle.Many people I media train waffle. They meander off into a tangent or blurt out a thought that just came into their head in the heat of the moment, instead of carefully planning their messages and delivering them.
via GIPHY
A while back I saw the movie Fair Game about the Valerie Plame story. When Plame spoke to one of her contacts overseas from whom she wanted information she was firm as a mountain, soft as breeze, fluid as water. She was never harsh, but she got her way. She knew her facts so when she spoke to one of her own team members or someone whose cooperation she wanted she quietly, but firmly repeated her request.
During a media interview you can do the same when someone asks you a question. You calmly assert your pre-rehearsed answer no matter how many different ways a reporter or host asks you a question to elicit a different response. Know what you want to say and stick to it. Stay firm as a mountain, soft as a breeze, fluid as water.
2. You Don’t Quote Industry Leaders or Competitors.It might sound counter-intuitive to quote your competition or other high-stature people in your field during a media interview, but it shows that you are on top of what’s happening in your industry.
In an Inc.com article titled 10 Tips for Giving an Important Speech by Alyssa Danigelis, anthropologist, filmmaker, and National Geographic explorer Elizabeth Lindsey said, “The more we talk about the things that matter to us, and less about our achievements, people breathe a collective sigh of relief.”
When we focus on what’s important to us in a sincere way it translates to our audience. They get it. Quote people you admire whose philosophy resonates with your own to help get your ideas across in a novel way.
They often say things that give a different point of view given we are all entangled in our own perspective. It’s a way of broadening our own views and the views of our audience.
3. You Don’t Tell How You’ve Helped People.The most potent way to persuade people to buy or buy into you or your ideas during a media interview isn’t for you to talk about your achievements but to tell a story about a person you’ve helped. I recently media coached a client who said he wasn’t a good storyteller. As a doctor, he referred to medical facts so he would be more authoritative. But the human warm fuzzy factor was a bit lacking. It’s important to use facts and stories to build trust during every media appearance. Facts alone aren’t enough. When using facts make sure to put them in their human context so you combine feeling with fact. It’s also necessary to tell stories that reveal our effectiveness human to human.
#Soundbite Tip: Tell People How You’ve Helped Others To Be More Human + Lovable.
Click To Tweet
Facts show you have knowledge. Personal and professional stories illustrate your understanding – how you do what you do and how well your methods work. I suggested that he tell dramatic or funny stories about people who came into his office with an acute problem whom he helped recover quickly using both his doctorly intuition and the product he was promoting.
In our next media coaching session he did this beautifully in preparation for his NPR interview. Giving your audience a story about how you helped another person is the closest thing to giving them an actual experience of you.
4. You Don’t Transform Your Wounds Into Wisdom.Your hardships are the mistakes that others don’t need to make. Your wounds make you lovable. We all have an Achilles Heel.
Don’t hide it, highlight it.
Comedian Craig Ferguson said, “I think that sometimes fear is God’s way of saying, paying attention, this could be fun. I’ve learned from people who are braver than I that fear is necessary, failure is necessary. When I talk to people and they tell me how well they are or how well they are doing I think they’re crazy and they’re failing. And when I talk to people and who are telling me how they feel—I’m not saying that misery is more authentic than joy, I don’t mean that. But I do think that sometimes self-promotion can be tiresome as I sit here talkin’ about my book. Which is available reasonably priced from all good outlets.”
What I love about Ferguson is that he doesn’t wallow in any sentiment. He moves into the wound and then moves out of it with humor. And aren’t you interested in his book just from reading this one quote? I was.
5. You Don’t Have Your Opinion Ready.Thought leaders have opinions. They back their opinions with evidence or piggyback them with humor to soften a tough point of view. Have your opinion ready for your media appearances.
To become a respected thought leader spend some time every week thinking about the issues in your industry.Consider some of the trends that are happening. Formulate your thoughts. Concretize them in writing on your blog, Facebook, LinkedIn or in an article.
When a reporter who had interviewed me before called and asked me my opinion of the new Conan O’Brien Show I told her I hadn’t seen it, but I still had an opinion about it. We laughed. Then I transitioned from what I didn’t know into what I did know – which was Jon Stewart. I watched the Daily Show with Jon Stewart regularly and think he’s hilarious, smart and self-deprecating.
Even though he’s super smart he’s not a snob about it. She really wanted my comments about the future of the talk show format so I talked about that in relation to Jon Stewart. I got a paragraph at the end of her article – without knowing a thing about the topic of her piece – Conan O’Brien.
The important thing when in a media interview is to transition to what you know and make the connection so you are serving the reporter and her audience.
Folk singer Joan Baez said, “I’ve never had a humble opinion. If you’ve got an opinion, why be humble about it?” Thought leaders aren’t afraid to voice a strong opinion.
Avoid Media Interview Mistakes Now.So in the spirit of mastering your messaging you’re invited enjoy the Zen of Fame: Your Genius Gone Viral Course.
Everybody needs to speak succinctly in sound bites. They aren’t just for politicians, talking heads, or movie stars. Even if you’re not preparing for a media interview, the information in the course can help you be a better parent, leader, succinct speaker, dazzling party guest, run an effective meeting, close a deal or get venture capital.
5 Media Interview Mistakes That Could Crucify Your Career + How to Make Sure You DON’T Make Them
Click To Tweet
Have you had a success (on TV, during a meeting, in your own living room with your kids?) Please share it!
Zen of FameSubscribeFree ConsultThe post 5 Media Interview Mistakes: That Could Crucify Your Career first appeared on Susan Harrow.The post 5 Media Interview Mistakes: That Could Crucify Your Career appeared first on Susan Harrow.
SUMMARY: Learn the art of media training for CEOs to ensure powerful and beloved communication during interviews. Craft nuanced key messages that resonate with audiences in today’s fast-paced media landscape. Embrace concise sound bites that convey your message effectively without losing depth or meaning. Practice techniques like speaking in phrases that can’t be edited and creating modular messages for different audiences and vertical markets. Foster likability and openness in your CEO’s demeanor to enhance their presence and influence in the media.
Table of contents: * Create Key Messages With Nuance That Resonate With Your Audience During Media Appearances. * Send a Clear Message That is Easy to Understand. * Deliver Concise Key Messages That the Media Can Use. * Media Training For CEOs Technique #1: Speak So You Can’t Be Edited During a Media Appearance. * Media Training For CEOs Technique #2: Create Modular Messages / Sound Bites in Media Interviews. * Media Training For CEOs Technique #3 Move People With Your Good Spirit in a TV Interview. * Media Training For CEOs Technique #4 Express Openness Which Equals Power During a Media Interview. Create Key Messages With Nuance That Resonate With Your Audience During Media Appearances.The late ABC Anchor Peter Jennings noted, “I find writing the evening news sometimes very challenging because I realize that what we’re trying to give folks in the evening is black and white when so often I want to give them gray.” That same frustration is only exacerbated these days for media, thought leaders and TV guests alike. Especially given the 24 hour news cycle where anchors and commentators are pressured to fill in every moment while the audience suffers from information overload and boredom watching the same images cycle through the screen. Bottom line: There is a place for nuance. It’s just a small place.
Send a Clear Message That is Easy to Understand.Attention spans have shrunk to the size of a Nike Swoosh. But one reason why the conservative right is so successful is that they give audiences one side and one side only. It’s simplistic, but it’s clear.
While I’m not advocating simplifying issues devoid of nuance, what I am suggesting is that to help your CEO or spokesperson learn the game that gets ink or air, you must help them develop a million-dollar tongue.
Attention spans have shrunk to the size of a Nike Swoosh. Which means you must speak concisely in any media interview
Click To Tweet
Deliver Concise Key Messages That the Media Can Use.A large part of that involves delivering concise sound bites (key messages) the media will use.
I love poetry and nuance and subtlety. It saddens me that the place for it in the media is almost as extinct as the White Rhino. I’ve frequently said to my clients that the art of sound bites/messaging is like taking War and Peace and turning it into a haiku.
Learning to speak “sound bite” is like learning a new language. Here are some ways to do that without selling your soul (or losing your message):
The art of sound bites/messaging for a media interview is like taking War and Peace + turning it into a haiku.
Click To Tweet
Media Training For CEOs Technique #1: Speak So You Can’t Be Edited During a Media Appearance.I media coached a former Jesuit priest for CBS’ “60 Minutes” who was protesting the sexual harassment he had endured that led him to leave the priesthood. The show was called “Is the Catholic Church Above the Law?” I played Mike Wallace. He got Morley Safer. He said the interview was easy after what I put him through. He was positioned positively. It could easily have gone the other way—except for one thing: When I taught him to only speak phrases that couldn’t be truncated and spliced to change his meaning, the six hours of taping that was edited down to five minutes turned in his favor.
Does this take lots of practice? Yes. But it can be done. And CEO media training is the quickest way to get there. The harder you are on your CEO or spokesperson, the better it is for them. Better you making them sweat and swear than Mike Wallace. By the way, the case went all the way to the Supreme Court and he won.
Media Training For CEOs Technique #2: Create Modular Messages / Sound Bites in Media Interviews.I was media coaching a CEO of an up-and-coming company positioning itself to go public. The company was targeting business shows on MSN, CBS, CNN and wanted to attract investors. We created sound bites to include facts about the company’s financial well being, about the internal health of the company and employee happiness, and the ways that they were innovators in their field. Plus the company was growing fast, adding new stores nationwide at record speed, while staying in the black.
We took those same stories and angled them for the company’s other two audiences: consumers and trade. And we worked the CEO’s passion for fly-fishing into the mix, which brought out his sweetness.
PRO TIP: Work with your CEO or spokesperson not to memorize talking points, but to make them modular—to flex their ideas into different shapes and sizes for different audiences. Make them human and lovable by establishing some key stories about their personal life, which exemplify how well they lead their people—which is what we really want to see. We need more leaders and fewer protectors of the bottom line.
Make your sound bites/messaging modular for a media interview so you can flex them into different shapes and sizes for different audiences
Click To Tweet
Media Training For CEOs Technique #3 Move People With Your Good Spirit in a TV Interview.Words are less important than you think, likability more. In the Gallup poll taken during each presidential election since 1960, the candidate who scored highest in the likability category has won every election.
Making your CEO likable is crucial to their success in the media.
I was working with a CEO of a popular magazine who had a brilliant mind, was a talented athlete, but wooden.
As soon as I encouraged him to speak of his youngest daughter, his whole demeanor softened. His VP of PR cooed, “Oh, you just got soooo handsome.” It was true.
Once I coached him to speak from that place of the pride and love he had in his daughter he could talk about the difficult situation in his industry that directly impacted his magazine—formerly a stumbling block—with ease and grace.
Media Training For CEOs Technique #4 Express Openness Which Equals Power During a Media Interview.The more open your CEO or spokesperson is, the more powerful they are. Practice having them remain open and loving when you grill them with tough questions.
The more open your CEO or spokesperson is, the more powerful they are during a media interview.
Click To Tweet
That may sound ridiculous, but when we speak as if we were addressing a beloved child it’s pretty hard for the media to retaliate with the same vehemence than toward a person holding a sword ready to strike.
Spending time with your CEO or spokesperson to hone their sound bites, body and facial language to suit any situation will help make rich poetry in troubled times.
Zen of FameSubscribeFree ConsultThe post Media Training for CEOs: How to Be Powerful + Beloved first appeared on Susan Harrow.The post Media Training for CEOs: How to Be Powerful + Beloved appeared first on Susan Harrow.
Elevate Your Media Presence: Expert Tips to Avoid Soundbite BlundersSUMMARY: Learn expert tips to avoid soundbite blunders and improve your media presence. Craft a concise, tailored introduction to control your bio and the narrative before stepping in front of the camera or microphone. Ensure your message is concise and precise, focusing on six essential points to cater to different mediums. Engage your audience with demonstrations and support your ideas with compelling facts and statistics. Take control of your media appearances and make a lasting impact on your audience.
Table of contents: * 1. Craft Your Introduction: A Soundbite Opportunity For Your Short Bio * 2. Note the Essentials of a Bio For Your Media Appearance. * 3. Avoid Meandering Meaninglessly. * 4. Demonstrate So You Don't Deviate. * 5. Support Opinions or Ideas with Facts. 1. Craft Your Introduction: A Soundbite Opportunity For Your Short Bio Before you even step in front of the camera or microphone for a podcast, presentation, TV or radio show, your bio plays a crucial role. It’s often the first impression you make on your audience.
Many people leave this introduction up to the TV or radio host and that’s their first mistake. Take control by crafting a concise, two to four-line bio tailored to the topic you’ll discuss.
Controlling the public’s perception of you begins with the bio. Even if you have hired a publicist, this job is still yours as your publicist won’t have the time for this level of detail.
Your bio is the first introduction to you and it’s your first soundbite—even though you’re not the one to say it.
One of the most validating ways to be taken seriously by the media is by researching statistics that support your views + to quote them accurately.
Click To Tweet
Most people don’t know that each subject you pitch to the media deserves its own bio. This approach ensures you’re perceived accurately. Tailoring your bio deepens your credibility no matter what your profession or title.
- Note the Essentials of a Bio For Your Media Appearance.Your bio should be two to four lines and specifically tailored to the topic you’ll be discussing. I highly suggest that you create bios for every single subject you pitch to the media.
One of my clients didn’t have time to do this when she dashed into the studio to comment on breaking news for a major network. The result? She was labeled a psychologist because she had a “PhD” after her name. She was not a psychologist or therapist, but a wellness expert. Not the end of the world, but a blip in her branding.
On the positive side, another one of my clients who is an expert in Huna, the ancient science of Hawaiian wisdom passed down to modern day through a lineage, developed several separate bios. There are many different aspects of Huna, one of which is Ho’oponopono, The Hawaiian Code of Forgiveness.
When he was speaking directly about this aspect of Huna, his bio reflected that focus. When the angle was about mental infidelity, cheating in your head, his bio emphasized his experience in dealing with the thousands of people in his seminars seeking loving, long-lasting, rewarding and hot relationships.
When you angle your bio to your expertise within a given niche you deepen your credibility.
Create bios for every subject that you could possibly pitch to the Media so that they are always targeted.
Click To Tweet
3. Avoid Meandering Meaninglessly.Don’t squander time. Your message must be concise and precise. You have a precious few minutes to convey your essential messages to people who have nano attention spans. Writer Vladimir Nabokov said, “Caress the divine details.” It’s your job to first discover the details that matter and then sort out what is divine from the worldly dross of all that you know.
The problem most people have is not knowing too little, but knowing too much and then choosing what is relevant to the audience they are speaking to. That can differ widely in all the media mediums. Instead of overwhelming your audience with too much information, create a core of six essential messages. Then, adapt and condense these messages to cater to your specific audience.
Work on expanding and contracting them so they work for all the different communication mediums. This takes enormous skill and practice and is essential for effective communication so your media appearances have real results and impact your ROI.
4. Demonstrate So You Don’t Deviate.Talking heads on TV shows get dull. In the visual medium of television, actions speak louder than words. Incorporate props, movement, and demonstrations whenever possible to engage your audience. Whenever you can prove a point by demonstration it increases its effectiveness for several reasons.
You’re getting the host involved physically, and research shows that when two people who are interacting with each other are in motion, not only do they remember better and learn more, but they feel more connected. Marci Shimoff, author of Happy For No Reason, and one of the teachers in the DVD The Secret did this exceptionally well in her NBC’s The Today Show appearance.
Marci asked The Today Show host Meredith Vieira to put her arm straight out to her side and pushed down on it. This is called “muscle testing.” It was strong and stayed in the same position. Then she asked Meredith to say “I’m not good enough” three times. When Marci pushed on Meredith’s arm it went right down, Meredith couldn’t keep it out straight and strong.
In the virtual medium of television actions speak louder that words, incorporate Props + Movement +Demonstrations where possible to engage your audience.
Click To Tweet
Finally, she asked Meredith to say “I’m good enough” three times. Meredith’s arm stayed out straight and strong even with Marci pushing on it hard. Marci’s point? Negative thoughts and words weaken us. Strong thoughts and words strengthen us.
Marci Shimoff was an excellent guest. Well rehearsed yet natural and engaging.
5. Support Opinions or Ideas with Facts.The whole focus of NBC’s The Today Show appearance for Marci Shimoff was not “about” her book, but about a trend in the American culture. Marci stated that we have an “epidemic of unhappiness.” She backed up that strong statement with the fact that 1 in every 5 women are on antidepressants. And 30% of the people report being deeply unhappy. In addition, Americans have 60,000 thoughts per day, 80% of which are negative. This data is startling and Marci delivered it in a warm yet precise manner, with no hype.
One of the most validating ways to be taken seriously is to research statistics that support your views and quote them accurately. To gain even greater credibility, do original survey studies yourself. If this is a possibility for you, you’ll be an outstanding source. The media are always looking for new data on fresh and old ideas.
If you’re ready to make this your year of building your business and brand with media appearances and want personal media training from me, please let me know a bit about what you want to accomplish.
Zen of FameSubscribeFree ConsultThe post Elevate Your Media Presence: Expert Tips to Avoid Soundbite Blunders first appeared on Susan Harrow.The post Elevate Your Media Presence: Expert Tips to Avoid Soundbite Blunders appeared first on Susan Harrow.
SUMMARY: Learn five strategies to physically prepare for a TV interview and overcome appearance-related anxieties. Clear your mind with Bulletproof coffee for peak cognitive function. Slim down with T-Tapp exercises and tone up with the Flexbelt for a more confident appearance. Release fears with the Sedona Method and energize with a nourishing green smoothie. By focusing on your physical and mental well-being, you can confidently deliver your message during media appearances.
Table of contents: * 5 Strategies to Physically Prepare For a TV Interview–My Personal Secrets + 1. Clear Your Mind to Prepare for a Media Interview. + 2. Slim Down to Prepare for a Media Interview. + 3. Tone Up to Prepare for a TV Interview. + 4. Release Your Fears to Prepare for a TV Interview. + 5. Energize to Prepare for a TV Interview! + Ingredients for My Nourishing Green Smoothie 5 Strategies to Physically Prepare For a TV Interview–My Personal SecretsI need to lose 20 pounds. I wish I had less wrinkles. My butt is too big. Look at my wobbly double chin. She’s a liar. I don’t believe a word she’s said. What a schlump. Is that any way to sit in a chair? I’m an imposter. Does this tie make me look like an idiot? I’ve lost my confidence. I don’t know how I imagined I could ever do a TEDx talk or be a thought leader.
These are actual phrases that clients said to me in the past 33 years I’ve been a media trainer, marketing strategist and former publicist. When I media train my clients for TV shows most of them first fret about their appearance.
A messaging strategy and sound bites take a back seat to clothes, expressions, body language and butt size. Shame, fear, insecurity, all rear right up.
The question, “What will people think of me?” takes center stage.
And rightly so. Research on what’s called “Thin Slicing,” shows that rather than 7 seconds, audience has already decided whether they like, trust, respect, believe, and will buy from in the blink of an eye. So how much of what people think of you has to do with your clothes, hair, make-up, facial language, body language, and demeanor as well as the look and feel of you?
A lot.
But here’s the silver lining. People follow your lead. If you feel like a slouch you’re directing people to think you are one. If you radiate beauty and good health even while toting extra pounds, we may notice your heft, but we forgive it for your verve.
And while I know that a TV appearance isn’t going to help you get over your childhood issues any faster, there are still strategies that can help you be fabulicious, increase your business, and stop thinking so much about your butt.
But, because the question I get most is about looks, I’m going to address how to prepare now, in advance, BEFORE you get booked on TV so you’ll feel your Fabulicious best when your day in the sun arrives.
No scrambling for clothes that don’t accentuate your best features. No last minute panic about how you look. You can’t lose 20 pounds overnight but you can focus your full attention on what you can give your audience that only you can. In the brief time you have – two to four minutes – on Good Morning America, The Today Show, CNN, MSNBC, The Kelly Clarkson Show, or Fox, you can deliver your core messages with generosity and wit.
During a TV interview the audience decides whether they like, trust, respect, believe, + will buy from you in the blink of an eye, so you want to make a good impression right away.
Click To Tweet
1. Clear Your Mind to Prepare for a Media Interview.Drink Bulletproof coffee.**** I start every morning with a variation of this special coffee combined with unsalted Kerrygold grassfed butter, MCT oil and collagen. This combo was created by Dave Asprey who bio-hacked his body to lose 250 pounds and gain optimal health. This is potent coffee that is organic and doesn’t contain any toxins normally found in commercial coffees. You combine the coffee with MCT oil (which is fat-burning) that is 12x stronger than coconut oil, for maximum cognitive function.
In English that means peak brain performance – a clear mind. Asprey says that you can, “Learn to be perfectly focused in any situation — in one week.” He says, “In this protocol, you eat no protein and no carbs at all in the morning, instead enjoying a Bulletproof Coffee. That provides the most energy and the least hunger for about eight hours. Adding in the collagen “delivers low inflammation, high quality, and heat stable protein to my coffee without affecting the taste.”
Insider Secret: Add this one ingredient to your coffee to help clear your mind + prepare for your media interviews.
Click To Tweet
The butter became a bit rich for me so I ditched it and in it’s place added in a generous scoop of a superfood blend of 8 different mushrooms from a wonderful company called Malama Mushrooms that gives back to the community. These adaptogens assist cognitive function as well as help you feel relaxed and alert.
According to Tim Ferriss, author of, The 4 Hour Body, eating protein within 30 minutes of waking up is essential for losing weight. Even if you don’t want to lose weight, this coffee will sustain and nourish you while giving you clarity of thought. Exactly what you need in a media pressure cooker situation.
Yes, there is decaf as well, however I didn’t find the same effects with it. And since I’m sensitive to caffeine I combine half decaf with half caf beans – just so I could drink more of the delicious stuff. Otherwise I could just have one tiny cupful. (And I wasn’t a coffee drinker at all before this. Green tea was my go to morning drink, which I still enjoy after I have my Bulletproof coffee).
You’ll be the judge of how much you can drink without getting a buzz on. I suggest you sip a small cup and wait fifteen minutes so you can judge the effects. Also, add as much butter as you like. I admit I was first horrified at the thought of dumping a half stick of butter into my coffee. I thought it would taste disgusting. But it’s like putting cream on steroids, rich and smooth. You’ll discover what works best for you.
2. Slim Down to Prepare for a Media Interview.Do T-Tapp and Lose 2 Dress or Pant Sizes in 30 Days.
You’re a month away from a smaller, more toned you. I went from a size 8 to a size 6 in a month (I’m now a size 4), Lisa Earle McLeod, an expert in helping companies name and claim their noble purpose, lost 2 dress sizes and got back the flat tummy she hasn’t had for 10 years. Teresa Tapp (who sadly passed away suddenly) first created this program for models to get back into shape after pregnancy. No one cared about their weight. What mattered was size – so they could fit into the proper clothes that they were modeling. Tapp says it’s all about the inches and loving what you see in the mirror —not what the scale says.
If you’ve got a media appearance coming up and you want to get in tip top (T-Tapp) shape ASAP this is the ticket.
My sweetie is doing it in the living room right now. Yes, it works for men too.
3. Tone Up to Prepare for a TV Interview.Want to know the Hollywood stars secret to looking great, staying fit and getting a flat stomach fast without exercise? The Flexbelt.Essentially you strap the Flexbelt around you waist and it contracts your muscles like you’re doing sit-ups — while you’re walking around getting stuff done.
We all know that the camera adds 10 pounds to your weight. Learn the Hollywood secret to getting into shape fast so that you shine in your TV interviews.
Click To Tweet
I put it on first thing in the morning before I brush my teeth, feed the cats, start my day. I use the butt and thigh belt too and also the Flexbelt for the arms. The great thing about the Flexbelt is once it’s on you can just go about your business so you’re getting a workout while you’re answering your email, talking to clients, working in the yard. Do it daily for a few weeks and then 2-3 times per week or as needed. Once you get in the habit it’s simple to stay in shape.
4. Release Your Fears to Prepare for a TV Interview.*The Sedona Method* is one of the fastest, simplest and most effective methods to instantly release uncomfortable or unwanted feelings on the spot. It’s also a tool to let go of current or long-standing pain. Whether it’s fear of speaking, becoming a more public person, losing weight, or letting go of stress, or past issues or trauma, this will help you achieve your goals effortlessly and with great joy. It also works to get to the root of physical and emotional pain.
I learned these techniques long ago when Hale Dwoskin, founder of Sedona Training Associates, was a client, and still use them daily. They’re a great help during media training role-play so my clients can stay centered and grounded when the host or journalist springs a surprise question.
I particularly like the technique of going back and forth between opposite extremes to neutralize forceful feelings – just one of the things you’ll learn and keep using as long as it serves you. Their courses are helpful trainings if you’re getting ready to go on a media tour or preparing for any type of media interview.
5. Energize to Prepare for a TV Interview!Swirl up a green smoothie.
This is my own special green drink smoothie recipe that helps make your skin gloriously golden and nourishes you at a cellular level. You’ll see a noticeable difference in your skin, vibrancy, and energy almost immediately.
I use all organic ingredients and buy from the local farmer’s market when I can and mix this up in the Vitamix that chops every part of the fruits and vegetables so you get the most nutrition. We grow chard, cilantro and parsley so I dash out into the garden to snip a few leaves before the birds and other animals get them (which is often).
I pick dandelions from the neighbor’s lawns and look for the tender, young ones without a stiff stem. You can buy dandelions at your local market if you don’t want to ferret them out.
As a child when we’d visit my nana and grampa they’d send us kids out into the yard to pick dandelions to put in the salad to give it some bite. According to the USDA Bulletin #8, “Composition of Foods” (Haytowitz and Matthews 1984), dandelions rank in the top 4 green vegetables in overall nutritional value. Who knew a weed could be so nutritious?
Ingredients for My Nourishing Green Smoothie* ½ cup water or unsweetened coconut water (or more as needed depending on how thick and sweet you like it) * ½ cup virgin olive oil (I do 15 glugs vs. measuring). * 1 frozen block of Acai * 1 pear * 1 frozen banana * 1 large sweet apple (I like Pink Ladies, Yellow Golden Delicious or Fuji) * 1 large carrot * 1 large avocado
Mix together.
Tamp down these ingredients into the above mixture before you restart the Vitamix.
- 3 generous handfuls of spinach
- 2-3 large leaves of chard with the stalks (to taste as this can make it bitter)
- 2 sprigs of parsley
- 2 sprigs of cilantro
- 5 leaves of dandelion
- 1 stalk celery
Optional: Add frozen blueberries for added anti-aging benefits. Adjust the sweetness to taste by adding more fruit or unsweetened coconut water.
We’ve concentrated on honing and toning your face and body in order to move you to a place where you’re not worrying about how you look so you can focus on what matters most – your message. Victor Hugo said, “Concision in style, precision in thought, decision in life.”
Audiences look for consistency in your message and in your life. One of my clients is a well-known motivational speaker who naturally also talked about health and wellness as well as the process of transforming the mind. But one thing was out of synch.
In his own words: he was fat.
In a kind and considerate way his wife pointed out the discrepancy. So he created an exercise and diet regime for himself. It wasn’t easy as he loved apple pie and ice cream and didn’t care much for lifting weights. But he did it. So now the overall message he’s conveying is consistent with his teaching.
Take what works for you from these strategies so you can feel good inside and out.
The French have an expression, “Bien dans sa peau,” to feel good in your own skin or to be at ease with yourself. When you’re relaxed, centered and calm we’re right there with you.
Zen of FameSubscribeFree ConsultThe post 5 Strategies to Physically Prepare For a TV Interview–My Personal Secrets first appeared on Susan Harrow.The post 5 Strategies to Physically Prepare For a TV Interview–My Personal Secrets appeared first on Susan Harrow.
I haven’t seen much to applaud in the current administration or the recent presidential debates. So I thought I’d harken back to the Obama White House PR campaign strategy for some ideas you can apply to your own publicity campaign. 1. Define your image as a thought leader. While I don’t particularly like the word…
The post Barack Obama’s Campaign Strategy: How you can apply his PR techniques to your publicity campaign first appeared on Susan Harrow.
I was talking to my neighbor next door who works for a famous matchmaking firm. She’s a warm and cozy person who people feel comfortable with right away. She has a knack for putting people at ease — including celebrities, princesses and the rich beyond imagination, who are her clients. Want to listen to this…
The post Media (Love) Coaching for Matchmaking first appeared on Susan Harrow.
Guest Blog post As a PR professional, knowing how to dress for media appearances is of utmost importance. There are few departments who represent a company more directly then the PR team themselves. Though preparing yourself for an appearance with the media can be a bit stressful in the beginning, creating your wardrobe is essential.…
The post Media Appearances: Your Guide to PR Professional Dress first appeared on Susan Harrow.
Last week I spoke at East Bay Women’s Network to a group of wonderful women attended who were curious about how to promote their businesses and themselves. It had been a long time since I’d given a “speech” as I’ve been on a bit of a hiatus from speaking engagements or other public events. My…
The post What To Do When People Criticize You in Person or on the Internet first appeared on Susan Harrow.
Lots of people call me who want to get on The Today Show, Good Morning America, Fox and Friends, The View, MSNBC and more. Most don’t know that if they create the entire segment they have a better chance of becoming a guest on a national TV show. If they can envision the show, map…
The post Create a TV Pitch Letter and Get on National TV first appeared on Susan Harrow.
Develop your essential talking points / sound bites so you can easily incorporate them into your work and media appearances to grow your business fast.
The post Media coaching to get chosen for a media appearance or commercial first appeared on Susan Harrow.
Although she’s known as an engaging speaker, trainer, author, and executive coach, Kimberly (Kim) Faith, was still terrified to be on TV. But she did it anyway. And to see her you wouldn’t know she was fearful or nervous. Watch her here on a major market live TV show in Seattle. Prepare to be encouraged!…
The post Feel afraid of appearing on TV? Read this first appeared on Susan Harrow.
I was walking down our tree lined street yesterday when a boy popped his head out of a car window parked in his driveway. “Hi!” he yelled. “Hi!” I yelled back. “What cha doin?” “Washing my car,” he said. “Oh, don’t mind him,” his father chimed in. “He is only three and doesn’t have a…
The post Why I love Lady Gaga – and You – Unfiltered first appeared on Susan Harrow.
The following are 3 radio pitch letter templates courtesy Steve Harrison and Alex Carroll. (Thank you guys!)
Steve shared these brilliant radio pitch letter email templates and Alex created the amazing examples. You can just copy these and fill-in-the blanks with your topic or subject matter.
Also, if it isn’t obvious, all of these fabulous formulas double as as story headlines for pitching TV, magazines, newspapers and online to feature you or whatever you're promoting.
The post 3 Radio Pitch Letter Templates Guaranteed to Get a Producer’s Attention (And get you booked!) first appeared on Susan Harrow.
I had a big slump in my writing group. For a year. I’d put pen to paper in a beautiful journal and out would pour — drivel. Sometimes I’d write to get all the minutae out of my head. Other times I’d write a list. But the end “result” was nothing of consequence. I mentioned…
The post Love Your Drivel first appeared on Susan Harrow.