In the vernacular
of the street, Prime Time is when you have the necessary level of knowledge, skill and experience to “Hangout”
or be in the presence or company of or with those that do. Therefore, not ready for Prime Time simply means a person lacks
the necessary level of knowledge, skill and experience to “Hangout” or be in the presence or company of or with
those that do. Another meaning of Prime Time that might be more popular to you is the broadcast time on network television
between the hours of 8 pm and 11 pm. However, the Prime Time that is the subject of this module is “How To Handle Success
& Exposure to Mainstream Media.
The most important
thing to remember is never lie. Always tell the truth and quote, repeat or know factual information. The bottom line is everything
you say must stand the test of scrutiny, be verifiable or can be corroborated by independent sources. In addition:
2.
Answer the question that you are asked without elaboration.
3.
When not sure of a question, ask the reporter or host to re-word the question for clarification and always add these words
before answering; and only if you are satisfied you understand the question being asked. After a question has been reworded,
answer in the following manner, “I do not want my answer misinterpreted or taken out of context. That being said,....”
(Give your answer)
4.
When in public or on a TV or radio show, do not try to seize control of the interview or show by asking the reporter or host
a question. Always stay calm, stay focused and answer all questions from talking points even if the “Talking Point(s)”do
not seem to relate to the question asked.
5.
Never entertain personal questions during business interviews and never answer business questions during personal interviews.
6.
Never answer or entertain any political questions. As a nonprofit, we cannot endorse any political position, philosophy or
candidate.
7.
Never laugh, giggle or chuckle after giving an answer. It depicts insincerity and weakness.
8.
Choose your words carefully when answering a reporter's or host's question(s). The same is true for law enforcement, agents
(federal or state) or military personnel.
9.
Never look down or up when answering a question. It depicts, lack of knowledge, uncertainty and sometimes, even deception.
10. Always be prepared to decisively deal with the unexpected. Never lose your composure on a live broadcast.
11. Always be aware of your environment and the elements within it. TV hosts, commentators and/or interviewers
are not your friends. They have a job to do and a work project to complete..and unfortunately... its you.
12. There are seven (7) keys to knowledge. The
7 Keys are the following words: The keys are most powerful when used alone.
1. Who?
2. What?
3. Where?
4. Why?
5. When?
6. How?
7. Which? or Now depending
on the circumstance, situation or event. When is the best to act or not act? NOW!! WHY? The past is behind us...and the future is not promised. All
we have is HERE and NOW!
Example:
Billy runs in excited and says, “Something
is happening down the street!!”
You: Where? (You see how
rapidly you have control of the situation with a single word?)
