When you appear on television, thousands of people may be watching. Plan ahead and prepare to be as professional as possible. If you are successful, you may be asked back. Here are a few steps to remember:

• research
• refine
• avoid faux pas
• present a memorable segment

Do Your Research
Investigating several things will help you make the most of your TV appearance. What is the show's format? How much time do you have? How many cameras will be used? Will you be allowed to promote yourself, a product or an upcoming event?

Researching the host is especially important. I was contacted to tape a segment for a new program, The Martin Short Show. I had no idea who he was! So, I rented and watched three movies in which he appeared. When I met him, I understood his humor and was able to play off his style.

Most television segments last three to six minutes. Talk to the stage director beforehand so that you understand the time cues and floor signals and can end your point as the segment ends.

Refine Your Content, Delivery and Visual Materials
Can you be interesting and passionate and say something with a new twist in six minutes? Divide your segment into an introduction, body and payoff. Practice your topic in front of audiences and determine the key points. Your gestures, voice and timing all need to be appropriate for television.

Learn how to deal with questions and interruptions. Sometimes a host is unprepared or will want to talk more than he or she wants to interview you. Learn to be graceful and effective in all situations.

TV is a visual medium, so make use of props whenever possible. When Dr. Pat Wiklund wanted to stress the importance of emotional support during difficult times, we developed a "Feel Good Fast First Aid Kit" that included tongue depressors with emotional challenges written on one side and solutions on the other. Be creative!

Avoiding Faux Pas
One of my first mistakes was due to unfamiliarity. Early in my career I was asked for a media release. I designed my own and sent it out. A kind reporter suggested that if I was going to be successful, my press release needed to look professional and contain information tailored to the television industry. If you're not skilled in this area, get some training or hire an expert.

Supply the producer with a one-page summary of what you're planning. You may want to prepare a few key questions for the producer or host. They may not use them, but the questions can be a guide.

Present a Memorable Segment
Send your materials in advance and take duplicates with you. Send a card with your toll-free number or website, or event details and ask that it be prepared for the screen. Don't forget to make duplicates of this, as well. Get prior approval to promote products or events.

Make the most of your appearance by doing your homework and keeping your energy up. Be sure to smile!