10 Media Readiness Tips Every Influencer Should Know Before Going on Air

In today's fast-paced social media landscape, influencers are increasingly finding themselves in the spotlight of traditional media outlets. Whether you're preparing for a TV interview, radio show, or podcast appearance, being media-ready is crucial for success. Getting featured on a radio, podcast, TV show, or livestream can be a major opportunity to grow your brand and connect with new audiences. But before you go live, it’s important to be ready, especially if you want to make a lasting impression. 

Proper preparation can help you avoid common mistakes and ensure your message is clear, engaging, and impactful. To help you ace your next media appearance, here are 10 media readiness tips every influencer should know before going on air.

 Know Your Topic Inside and Out

This is one of the tips lots of people ignore just because they do not think it is important, at times, because they are influencers, it is easy for them to be seen, but at EBO, one of our favorite slogan says “you are only as better as your last appearance” and that is the truth because what makes you get called for the next media appearance is what you deliver at the last one. 

Before your media appearance, you must understand your topic thoroughly. Do your research, prepare key points, and be ready to discuss the topic confidently. If you need more clarification on any aspect of the discussion, study it so you're well-prepared for any question that might come your way. Put these three points in place when getting to know your topic.

• Clearly define your key messages. 

• What are the main points you want to convey? 

• Develop a concise "elevator pitch" that summarizes your expertise and brand in 60 seconds or less.

Why it matters: When you know your subject well, you'll avoid stumbling or giving unclear answers, which will help build your credibility as an expert.

Practice Makes Perfect

Practice is key to a successful media appearance. Rehearse potential questions and answers before going live with a friend or in front of a mirror. You don’t need to memorize everything, but practice will make you more relaxed, confident, and natural in delivering your key messages when you go on air

Pro Tip: Record yourself while practicing to notice how you can improve your tone, body language, and delivery.

Dress Appropriately

Your appearance plays a huge role in how you're perceived. Even if you’re only on an audio podcast, dressing well can still boost your confidence. If you're on video, choose clothes that look good on camera—solid colors usually work best. Also, avoid distracting patterns or accessories that could take attention away from your message.

Quick Tips: 

• If it will be a remote video call from the studio, check the lighting in your room—proper lighting can make you look more professional. 

• Ask your host if there will be any form of Green screen, so you don’t wear a dress that would blend into the camera effects. It can be embarrassing and frustrating, you don’t want to lose your “steeze” on air

• Stay Calm and Confident (Even Under Pressure)

It’s normal to feel a little nervous before a media appearance, but staying calm is key. Learn and develop ways to manage nerves, such as taking a few deep breaths, relaxing your body, and reminding yourself why you're there—you have valuable insights to share. Staying calm will help you think clearly and present yourself more confidently and professionally. Remember, it's okay to pause briefly to gather your thoughts before responding to questions.

Why it matters: Confidence not only helps you feel more comfortable, but it also makes you more engaging for the audience.

Speak Clearly and Slowly

When you're live, it’s easy to speed up because of nerves. However, speaking too quickly can make it hard for people to understand you. Focus on speaking clearly and at a steady pace. If needed, pause between thoughts to give yourself time to think and the audience time to absorb what you're saying.

Pro Tip: Pauses are powerful—they give weight to your words and allow the audience to reflect on your message.

Know Your Audience

Understanding that with every media appearance, be it radio, TV, podcast or even written publications are you introduced to a new audience, some of these people do not know you as an influencer or might likely not even be on the same social media channels as you, due to this, it is beneficial for you to understand who’s listening or watching. Are they teens, young professionals, or parents? Your audience will guide how you frame your message. Keep your language fun and light if you’re speaking to a younger audience. For professionals, go for a more polished and informative approach.

Why it matters: Tailoring your message helps you connect better and keeps your audience engaged.

Prepare Soundbites

One of the most fun things to prepare for when going on air is to prepare for soundbites, we all love soundbites, it is a naturally occurring attribute for a human to catch and enjoy soundbites. So you need to craft memorable, quotable phrases that express your main points.  These "soundbites" are more likely to be featured in the final edit of your interview.

Pro Tips: Make your soundbites as short as possible, between 5-10 seconds to be memorable, something like “Content is King but Consistency is Crown” and update your soundbite regularly.

Prepare for Unexpected or Tough Questions

No matter how much you prepare, there’s always a chance you’ll get a tough or unexpected question. Don’t panic! Take a deep breath, pause for a moment, and then answer thoughtfully. If you don’t know the answer, it’s okay to say so. You can offer to follow up later with the correct information or suggest an alternative topic.

Why it matters: Staying calm under pressure shows professionalism and builds credibility, if you do not prepare for it, you might lose yourself for a few seconds or even a minute.

Master Non-Verbal Communication:

Your body language says a lot, especially if you're on video. Sit or stand tall, maintain eye contact, and use natural hand gestures to engage your audience. Avoid fidgeting or slouching, as it can make you appear nervous or unprepared. Positive body language conveys confidence and helps keep the audience engaged.

Be aware of your body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice. Maintain good posture, make eye contact, and smile when appropriate to appear confident and engaging.

Pro Tip: Watch previous interviews of yourself or others to learn from their body language and how they engage viewers.

Be Authentic - Be yourself

While preparation is key, don't come across as overly rehearsed. Let your personality shine through and speak from the heart to connect with your audience. Audiences love influencers who are genuine and authentic. Don’t try to be someone you're not—just be yourself! Let your personality shine through, Whether fun and energetic or calm and thoughtful. Audiences can easily spot inauthenticity, so being true to yourself will help build trust.

Why it matters: Authenticity is key to connecting with your audience and growing your influence.

By following these media readiness tips, you, as an influencer can make the most of your on-air opportunities, expand your reach, and solidify your expertise in your field. Remember, each media appearance is a chance to grow your influence and connect with a broader audience. With proper preparation and practice, you'll be ready to shine in the spotlight and make a lasting impression. But let us give you an extra tip because, at EBO, we always give an extra for everything.

Promote yourself

This is a tip nobody will tell you or might likely skip because they do not see it as a tip but it is something to prepare for when getting ready to go on air. Before your media appearance, let your followers know where and when they can watch or listen to you. Use social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and Facebook to build buzz. Before your time is up, make sure you end your media appearance with a strong call to action. Whether it’s asking people to follow you on social media, visit your website, or subscribe to your content, make it clear and easy for the audience to take the next step. A good CTA helps you turn your media appearance into more followers or opportunities.

After your appearance, share clips, quotes, or behind-the-scenes photos to keep the excitement alive and increase your visibility. Thank the host and media outlet, and use the exposure to further build your brand and credibility. This works every time!!

Pro Tip: Use relevant hashtags, tag the show or platform, and engage with followers who respond to your posts.

Being an influencer on air can be a little intimidating, but with these 10 media readiness tips (with an EBO extra), you’ll be well-prepared to take on any podcast, TV show, or live stream. Remember, the key is to be authentic, stay calm, and always know your topic inside and out. Each appearance is an opportunity to build your brand and you are always as good as our last appearance, so follow these tips and make your next media moment a huge success!