Scheduling media slots for your client can be an arduous task. this is because there are lot of other people vying to get that same interview for their own clients. You may be unfortunate to call when an editor is having a bad day which may drown your hopes of getting it for your client. But here are 11 surefire tips that will make sure you carry on a conversation from the beginning till you schedule even the highly contested interviews.
- Do Research:
The kind of research needed here is not deep and could be done within minutes. You need to be sure of the kind of media outlet it is. Study their patterns and the kinds of guests the handle on their shows.
Will my client be of interest to them?
What kinds of questions are they likely to ask and how will I craft them without hurting any party?
Will this interview achieve the bottom line for my client?
Is the timing perfect?
Will it give my client the required exposure needed?
- Focus on Priorities:
While scheduling interviews, make sure you focus on the main reason you’re calling or sending out an email. The name of your client, a brief description of who he/she is, reasons he/she should be featured in their media outlet.
- Sound Convincing and confident:
Part of what makes you sound convincing is preparation. You have to be prepared to make the call and know exactly what you wish to ask for. So you do not falter while making the call. Being well equipped with all the information needed makes you sound confident and make demands.
- Find Shortcuts:
You might hear the word “shortcut” and assume that means shoddy work. But, that’s not what this strategy is about at all. Successful people are always concerned with producing top-notch results—however; they also find little ways to save time in the process. You need to do other things aside scheduling that interview. So find a way to get off the phone as quickly as possible and send a lengthy mail instead.
- Be Specific:
Make your request clear. Remember that without guests there would be no shows. As much as you need them, they need you too. So do not be subjected to being pushed around while trying to schedule. Most times it is better to reject their options at first to make them know that you know what you really a want. All these without sounding haughty to those you’re talking to.
- Timing is important:
Know the perfect time to call offices and business places. Try not to call just before closing time because all they are thinking of is to clear their desk and go home. Give them some time in the morning to settle in before calling except it is in an emergency.
- Space calls:
Just in case you call and you do not get through, always wait minutes before calling. They might be in a meeting and your calls might be disturbing them.
- Achieve a Consensus:
Make sure you reach a conclusion. Never leave any conversation hanging. This shows thoroughness in execution. You may reach a conclusion on when to call back for more information or details of the interview
- Request for feedback:
Always request for a response or feedback whenever you send a mail. This will prompt the contact person that you are actually waiting to hear from them and will keep the conversation going till you reach a consensus.
- Always look for other options:
Just in case you do not get the slot or show for your client, always look for other options. Do they have another show that can go with your clients wants? You can also reschedule to another time suitable for both your client and the media outlet. Do not let the contact slide by. Always fix another time dependent on the needs of your client.
- Remember to show gratitude:
Show gratitude in terms of tone of voice and in writing too. When the interview is conducted or the publication is released, always show gratitude. It doesn’t cost a thing and it created good relationship and an air of friendship between you and the contact person. In case you need to call in quick favors you may have an advantage.