How radio and television differ from print media outlets when it comes to getting on them

You may know everything you need to know about getting in a print publication, but that does not mean you know what it takes to get on radio and television talk shows. Over the next ten days, you are going to learn what you need to do to get on a radio or television talk show. However, first you need to know the differences between print media outlets and radio and television.

Print media and radio and television are really different mediums. Many of their differences are fairly obvious, such as the fact that TV is far-reaching, and it's instantaneous. Some of the other differences are not as obvious. However, it is safe to say that a lot more people are going to be watching the television for their news and entertainment than are reading the paper. Part of this is because of the fact that when you watch television you can do other things too, and when you read the newspaper you are pretty limited. For this reason, the fact that it is further reaching, it is harder to get on television and radio. Thus, there are more things you will need to know and do to get noticed.

In the print media, the person you want to pitch to is the reporter who will be writing the story. In radio and television you have a head guy. There is not several different people broadcasting several different things, like in the newspaper. TV stations and most radio stations have a "Queen Bee." This is someone who knows what's going on; they are the person who everyone runs to with problems, etc. They are the person who has all the power. Other people have power too, but not like the "Queen Bee." So you really want to be friends with this person if you want to get on radio or television. If you develop a relationship with this person it is going to be easier to get on a radio or television talk show.

It is easy to find out who the "Queen Bee" person is.They are not usually distinguished by one title or another. They'll either be called a managing editor, a planning editor, or the assignment editor. So, look for this person. You can also ask. If you ask who is in charge, you will generally be directed to the right person. Never be afraid to ask.

In print media you usually only send your pitch to one person. In radio and television, it's a really good idea to send your information to more than one person, in fact, it is best to send to three or four people. So, be sure to send to the "Queen Bee." But, also be sure to send it to the others and the next in the chain of command. This is usually the producer.

There are some other differences, but these are the main differences between print media and radio and television. These are the differences that are going to make the biggest difference in what you do to get on during a talk show. Tomorrow look for tips on why you should call the anchor or the talk show host over the producers if you really want to get on and other efforts are not working as well. This is going to be valuable stuff.