How to Be a Great Radio Guest

1. Be confident. Present yourself and your message with confidence. Know your topic inside and out. Be confident that your message is something that the audience wants to hear about. The audience will perceive you as more credible.

2. Don't try too hard. Just relax, let go and let your message flow. Don't try to work too much information into too short a time. If you come across as trying too hard or you rush your message, you'll risk losing the attention of the audience.

3. Compliment the host. Radio hosts typically have fairly healthy egos. Massage those egos whenever you can and you may reap the benefits on the air. Compliment them on their show or on their line of questioning, when appropriate.

4. Remember names, and use them. When taking calls from listeners, write down the first name of the caller and use it when possible and appropriate. This helps the listening audience relate to you. You may want to also write down the host's name beforehand, just in case. Forgetting the name of the person interviewing you on the air is a big "no-no."

5. Be prepared for confrontation. You may be ambushed on the air by a combative radio host or call-in. While this is rare, be prepared to deal with it. Don't argue with the host, because he or she will always win and get the last word. Be firm but polite.

6. Don't sound like an infomercial. Plug yourself, your product or your company when a natural opportunity arises or when prompted by the host. Listeners are turned off when they perceive a guest as being overly pushy or "salesy."

7. Learn what you can about the show beforehand. Check out the station or show Web site before an interview. By familiarizing yourself with the host and show, you avoid any surprises and you will be more relaxed and collected.

8. Be punctual. Whatever you do, don't be late. Some hosts will cancel your interview if you don't call at the designated time. If the station/host is to call you, stay by the phone and keep your line clear.

9. Be sensitive about political views. If you are discussing a controversial political issue, acknowledge that the other side has some good points. Radio audiences are diverse. By "giving and taking" you will win credibility points with the audience. Obviously, this tactic won't work on shows such as Rush Limbaugh or Al Franken, where the hosts have distinctive viewpoints.

10.Don't try to hide anything. If you have made mistakes, admit to them. They may come out at some point in your interview and you are better off coming clean from the get-go. We all make mistakes and listeners will relate better to someone they see as honest.

This article is based on the written work of Marsha Friedman, founder and CEO of Event Management, Inc.