Not All Radio Interviews are Worth the Effort

I’ve been fortunate to score some radio interviews with my new book’s release (about Rock & Roll Radio DJs of yesteryear). Imagine that—an author of a book about radio, on the radio! Will wonders never cease. (OK, I’ll pull my tongue out of my cheek now.)

If you’re wondering how I did that (no, not the tongue-thing, the radio interviews) I promise to discuss it in an upcoming post (hint/example: Steve Harrison’s RTIR).

But while the past several interviews are fresh, I want to address a couple of lessons learned. Hopefully, you will discover a few good tips and be spared the baptism by fire experiences. ...

You know, most radio and TV interview techniques for authors are focused on Dos and Don’ts for the author.

Do this, don’t do that. Wear this, don’t you dare wear that. Stay on topic. Don’t overstate your book. Know your facts. Yadda, yadda, yadda. (BTW, I have a friend with a dog named Yadda. lol)

In case you haven’t seen the dominant lists, whether radio or TV, before the appearance and after:

-        you should promote the hosting station, and link to their site (you really don’t need to be told this, right?)

-        no matter how well you know your subject, have notes on hand for common and a few obscure facts, figures, and fun anecdotes

-        list two or three points you would specifically like to address (even if provided a subject list by the station)

-        post the archived version (hopefully there is one) on your site and spread the link virally through your social networks

-        And of course, at interview’s end, don’t forget to send a nice thank-you note and express interest in a repeat performance

But my inquiring mind wants to know, where are the game rules for the hosting radio shows? Often the author is made to feel they are soooo fortunate to be a chosen guest. True or not, we are providing great content for that radio show host—which means a happy audience. It’s a two-way street, folks.

For instance, if a producer or host drops the ball in providing links and locations for you to promote—well, um, what’s the point of the interview?

If an interviewer is more concerned about his or her ego, is offensive, or obviously believes you are blessed to be on the show, run! You will not likely be the center of the “interview.” You are there only to give the show credibility and make the show host look good while spouting an egocentric agenda.

Seriously, let’s explore this animal further in tips to spot one prior to the interview. Why? Because I saw the warning signs and ignored them. So you won’t be stuck on “shock-talk” shows …

-        try to listen to an interviewing host prior to your scheduled day

-        if an interviewer “takes calls” and you are lumped in with a list of “callers,” explore further before the interview’s final confirmation

o   although some quality shows are structured this way, most authors will be more comfortable with a show that treats them as a specific, scheduled guest

-        listening to the show, does the host formally introduce guests, or simply work them into an ongoing theme or discussion? (The former is preferred.)

-        if not possible to listen beforehand, ask your network for feedback from anyone who has interviewed with that show host, or at least listened to it

I’m not suggesting you should turn down the opportunity to interview with a “running discussion” talk show; but many of those formats rely on shocking or controversial news for entertainment value. Just know what you’re getting into and be prepared.

If the show is, however, not your cuppa tea, or even your choice of poison, it isn’t worth a poor interview just for the perceived exposure. Not all bad publicity is still good promotion.

If you jump into the show and find the host aggressive, or worse, attacking your POV, don’t stoop to their level by becoming defensive. Take a deep breath and sweetly suggest they take a pill. I know it’s tough not to retaliate, but realize the transparent world we now live in and … take the high road, m’friends.

Still, send them a thank-you note, and acknowledge the interview in your networking posts; however, your retribution comes by omitting links and being honest. If it was a less than enjoyable experience, say it with tact and move on.

Yes, I’m advising to note the negative experience. Why? Because your fellow authors deserve to know. (And they might have been listening!) Your network likely includes a plethora of like-minded writers. They follow you for a reason, and if you have a great experience, they may seek your counsel.

Likewise, acknowledging the negative with wit and aplomb makes you look good, while offering a word of caution to others.

Not that they should necessarily “write off” that station for their own publicity efforts. Some authors thrive on that type of hype. But for me and a couple of other authors I talked with about one particular show and its host―unfortunately I did not grasp the concept―the experience was less than pleasant.*

Do a good deed—tell your story―but again, with TACT and HONESTY.

Available at Amazon, BFYP & BBOTW

Recently marketing and promoting my new book, Blast from Your Past! Rock & Roll Radio DJs: the First Five Years 1954-1959, I interviewed with several radio stations over a 2-3 month span, cresting in a 2-day radio tour the third week of January.

Although I write about radio with ease and confidence, being on the radio as an informative, entertaining guest was at first, a challenge. I’m getting better. (I hope!) And I’m learning some tips and techniques that can apply to many levels of promotion. That discussion will come soon, I promise.

In the meantime, if you want a head start: Michael Dresser’s media interview training (Dresser After Dark). Tell him I sent you!

Most of the radio hosts I’ve interviewed with were very helpful. Live interviews were generally archived, at least for a while (some broadcast or station rules prevent indefinitely); and if an interview was taped rather than live, the air date was provided and again, with an archive link, if possible. Great promotional opportunities.

However there was that one station …

(See *Mastering the Art of Radio Interviews coming soon!)

Ciao for now!