Think it can't be done? Think again. I will show you exactly how to do just that, as I have done quite a number of television interviews, and far too many radio interviews to count.

Now, no matter what you do, promote, or sell, there is probably a television or radio program that will interview you for it.

However, most people tend to think that television and radio are only for established celebrities, or that they must find an "inside" connection, or must spend exorbitant amounts of money on a professional publicity firm in order to crack these media.

Well, nothing could be further from truth, as I am living proof of it. I suppose I have always been a bit of a media ham/hound, take your pick of terms, for I have been doing television and radio interviews for almost ten years. And, it is a very simple process, and one that I thoroughly enjoy.

Following, is a layout of steps for you to begin approaching this invaluable level of media for bringing dramatically more attention to your venture(s).

* One point of note that should be stressed, is that you will experience greater results and success IF you can put a "news" or "public benefit" spin on what you have to offer, and not simply convey that your sole intent is to "sell" a product or service.

You should also consider incorporating special discounts or even "freebie" offers for viewers and listeners to further entice prospects to your offer. So, let's begin with "how to" process.

Television

1. Pick up you local television guide, or even better, search online, and carefully review any locally or regionally produced programs such as morning shows or news programs. You want to list each of these down on paper.

2. Next, get station telephone numbers, call them up, and inquire name of each show's producer, and/or news director for newscasts. You will probably find there is more than one newscast, with each newscast hour having a different director. The more, merrier.

3. Inform producer or news director of offer you have that you feel would be newsworthy and something viewers or listeners would be interested in.

4. The producer/news director will, at that point, ask you to send more information, generally, in form of a news release or, more appropriately, a media kit. Make sure yours is top-notch. If for any reason you cannot reach producer or news director personally, ask receptionist or an assistant to provide you with their name, as well as station contact address.

Don't let horror stories about expense of TV commercials deter you. With a little creativity, even a small business with a limited budget can afford to run an effective TV ad campaign.

PRODUCING YOUR AD

One of most expensive parts of advertising on TV is getting your commercial produced. That average 30 second TV spot costs around $200,000 to produce. Of course, you can find far, far cheaper ways to get an affordable spot.

Your commercial should look professional. Any touch of amateurism will sink your spot from beginning (unless junk look is part of a gimmick that makes sense to viewers).

TV production equipment used to cost tens of thousands of dollars. Now anyone can own a digital video camera that gives a professional film look. The cost of these cameras is $1,500 or less making it possible for one person production houses to do work up to Hollywood standards.

Find out who does small-time, inexpensive TV production by checking your yellow pages, calling creative director at a local ad agency, or contacting production departments of TV stations in your area. Everyone in media knows everyone else and will be happy to give you name of a friend that does low-cost work.

Forget expensive actors. Run video of your product or service in action and have a professional announcer read your copy. Check local radio stations for a DJ who has a pleasing voice and good delivery. Offer them $50 to read your 30 second copy.

PLACING YOUR AD