-
If at all
possible, be able to give your undivided attention for the
amount of time you'll be on the phone (remember that that
might entail some downtime between when you first call in and
when you are on the air).
-
If you have
something to say, don't wait! A talk show might have all
the callers it can take before it is very far into the
broadcast.
-
Call until you
get through. Smaller shows may be limited in staff and
phone lines so don't be discouraged if you get a busy signal.
-
Be confident in
your ideas and party without sounding arrogant.
-
Keep your cool
and remain rational even if baited by one of the guests or
host.
-
Listeners will
generally trust a positive and upbeat attitude rather than a
negative one. Not stooping to back-biting or vicious
attack will give you respect from those who might not agree
with your viewpoint.
-
Have one thing
you want to say and support it. Write out a few bullet
points ahead of time that help you stay on message.
Prepare a succinct sentence-summary to give to the call
screener.
-
Comment on
something relevant to the subject at hand. You might cut
yourself (and your arguments) short by not sticking to the
topic being discussed.
-
Support why your
points are valid. If the issue affects you personally,
briefly explain why. Try to have statistics and figures
to back up your claims and be ready to say where they are from
if they are challenged.
-
Stick to your
point and be polite and confident; after all, you're a
Democrat!
