Originally on 5 Things I Learned – February 1, 2011
Last week, Colayco Foundation sent me to a small TV station to talk about what we do… It was my first solo TV guesting. I’d done guestings and interviews before but I was either with another person or the segment was really short. This time, I was engaged with the hosts for almost an hour.
1. The studio is cold.
I was in a polo shirt (because it had the logo of our foundation) and a pair of slacks. By the end of the show my teeth were nearly chattering.
To do for next time: have a button pin of our logo made and wear a warm jacket to future TV guestings.
2. Contour, contour, contour!!!
I’ve become a bit rounder the past two years and its showing in my face. Adding a bit of contouring to my make up would make me look better on camera.
Where to add: under my cheek bones and along my jaw line.
3. Figure out your angles and where the cameras are.
Trying to talk to the two hosts while giving the cameras a good angle of my face was difficult, but ultimately doable. The key is to test angles before taping/airing and to remember not to turn away too much.
4. Prepare your key phrases beforehand.
In past guestings, I was a bundle of nerves. I knew my material but there were times that I got tongue tied. Having a set of phrases on the ready helped me a lot with this last guesting. It helped keep the energy going.
5. Smile, laugh, play along, RELAX!
It’s the host’s responsibility and area of expertise to keep a show moving. You’re in good hands, take his/her cue and run with it.
