I get it every day, my phone rings and the complete stranger on the other end of the line starts the conversation by asking the stupidest question they could possibly ask:
"How are you?"
Excuse me, but what am I supposed to say?
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Should I spill my guts, telling you that I have a headache, that today's really busy and that I can't figure out when I'm going to get my car in for its alignment job?
Or should I tell you that I'm walking on air because my 17 year old is thrilled because the fashion show that she's producing this afternoon showing modest Prom dresses is looking like it's going to be a smashing success? (Really, it's going to be good, and I'm the MC!)
I'll just say "fine", but the caller started their conversation with a point against them.
Here's how Susan Harrow explains it in our new Training Manual, Secrets to Get Top TV Talk Show Producers To Book You As Their Guest.
"It may be counter-intuitive, but in this time-scarce business it’s actually disrespectful as it’s an unnecessary and even intrusive question. Don't try to befriend a producer. In other words, don't begin by asking them personal questions to establish rapport. Begin by asking or answering a question relevant to the information they're seeking. These producers are savvy and will sniff you out right away. You enter their good graces by doing a great show. You don't do it by chatting about their kids or sending flowers. The bottom line is that it happens by mastering what you're talking about. There isn't a magic formula or a cheat sheet. Getting chummy too fast is a warning sign that you can't deliver the goods. Show them that you can. Stick to the point."
This also works with any type of story pitch. Stick to the point, respect their time, and achieve the purpose of the call.
You can find out more about Secrets to Get Top TV Talk Show Producers To Book You As Their Guest here
Or more on pitching stories in How to Create the Perfect 30-Second Pitch
Posted April 02, 2004
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