Going on TV? Everything You Need To Know

Nov 2, 2018 was one of those Fridays – bright, beautiful and fun-filled. I was honored to be a part of a panel featured on KTN’s Books and Blogs TV Show. The show features book reviews with no limitation to genre and airs every Monday 8.30am – 9.30 am. During this screening, me, Tony Mochama and Janet Onyango reviewed Lean In: Women, Work and Will to Lead by Sheryl Sandberg and Nell Scovell.

Being on TV is such a thrill! You can easily flunk out and go blank or wing it with graceful boldness. So, what do you need to do to achieve the latter? Here are a few things:

1. Prep for what you will say

If you’re a newbie in the TV show industry like me, you’ll need all the prepping you can get. The adrenaline rush is insane, and you may end up forgetting everything. So, it helps to take short notes and keep them within an arm’s reach. I had mine on my phone (which is chained on me). I have a photographic mind so when something catches my eye it sticks. Some people would have to cram their notes. Hey, do whatever floats your boat – just make sure you familiarize yourself with your content.  Also, unlike shooting commercials, when screening a live or recorded TV show there is only Take 1 for the guests, so you must get it right.

2. Be bright inside out

Great energy. Great mood. Great attire. Once you’re on TV, you’re a representative of a certain school of thought to the public. What an opportunity to deliver your message and brand like you were born for it!  Dress up for it! Some shows will tell you what to wear – this one didn’t. But be sure to be decent, chic, with a fresh sense of style. I went with a multicolored blouse to make sure I stood out. I stood out alright. I was even asked to move to the seat farthest from the presenter.

Often, I see shows with hosts who cannot moderate their show so at one point the guests speak over each other while other guests blatantly shoot down their counterparts’ sentiments – the whole thing just becomes messy.  When you’re in a fabulous mood with a purpose to thrive, you’ll take the high road irrespective the mess. If you’re one of those guests who tear others apart, let go of your ego. This is an amazing learning experience.

3. Do your homework

Research about the show, the host and the topic of the day. It will empower you to contribute to the conversation with wit and sass.  Watch previous editions of the show as well to build evidence-based expectations e.g flow of conversation.  Read up bios of your fellow guests.  This will help build rapport and create chemistry which will add to the entertainment value of the show.

4. Arrive early

It gives you time to ease into the event. For this show, I arrived early enough to get lost in the premises thrice, and bump into the owner of the hotel who took me on a tour of the premise. I also had the chance to watch the shooting of the previous book review session which enhanced my preparedness for the show.

5. Do your make-up

If not sure about availability of a make-up artist at the set, do your own make up very well before the show. I took care of mine, thus only needed a splash of setting powder before the show. Carry your own appliances as well to ensure hygiene and reduce the risk of dramatic makeup that will either take away your natural sense of beauty or make you seem like you have risen from the dead. My counterpart, Janet, colleague specifically asked for powder to take away shine which won’t change her complexion. So, of course, feel free to state your terms.

Overall, it was an exciting opportunity that I’d wish upon everyone. Let’s get to watching the video. Thank you for dropping by and remember to leave your comment below.