Communication is something we just take for granted. I am tempted to say that it is a vital part of our existence but I will dare say that it is THE vital part of our existence.
We communicate all the time. Verbally, nonverbally, in person, in the media, through documents, via the internet, in our heads, with our families, with our neighbors, co-workers, customer service people, with God.
We are constantly sending out a message or receiving one.
But for the sake of keeping to MY topic, lets talk a little bit about the importance of effective communication when you are selling yourself through media.
Here are 3 things you must keep in mind when you get the "spotlight" opportunity:
Image- Do worry about how you look. This will be your opportunity to really put yourself out there and thousands of people will see you and make a judgement about you and it is safe to say that more than 50 percent of that judgement will be based on how you look. Unfair? Maybe, but really it's just how it is. Now by image I don't mean you need to fit a certain standard. No. You have to look sharp! Get a trendy haircut, go get a facial so that your face is glowing and on the day of the interview. Make sure your makeup is done properly. With colors and tones that suit you. Do you wear glasses? Are they boring and old fashion? Consider getting a more "trendy" pair. Women, get the eye brows and nails done. I once saw a woman on T.V. with chipped off nail polish talking about mortgages. It was distracting and hard to see her as the expert that she was when she looked so undone. So really polish yourself up and aim at looking your best on that interview.
Voice Modulation-One of the most important things I do as a Media Coach is teach people how to modulate their voice. Some people either speak in a very low voice or a very high voice. Some tend to start off just right and then die out towards the end of what they are saying. Learn to speak in a tone of voice that is consistent, clear, and leveled. And it may sound easy. But it takes practice. So start recording yourself and listening to how you sound. And we always hate our own voices so have someone critique it or hire a Media Coach to help you modulate that voice.
Talking Points-You would think that if someone was trying to get on the media they would know what they wanted to say. Well, think again. It is so taken for granted. Figure out what your main point is and come up with 4 or 5 key points that you can communicate in quick soundbites. When you are on-air you only have a couple of minutes if not seconds, depending on the type of media venue you are appearing on, to say what you have to say. So be prepared to condense all your knowledge into simple to understand points.
Remember that ultimately what you want is to gain the trust of the public. Would you trust a sloppy, unprepared, whisperer? Probably not. So go that extra mile and really pamper yourself to look and expose the sassy expert that you are!
© 2008 Julissa M. Fernandez
Entrepreneur Julissa Fernandez a.k.a "The Sassy Media Guru" is a Media Coach and Media Consultant helping other women entrepreneurs become Media Darlings. To learn more visit: http://www.synergycommunication.net
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