There’s a difference between showing up and showing up. I recently watched a celebrity walk into a morning TV interview looking like he just rolled out of bed—wrinkled t-shirt, sunglasses indoors, zero presence. A live TV appearance is not the time to give “I just woke up” energy. It’s a missed opportunity to connect, inspire, and own the moment.
The best interviews don’t come from vague lines or yes-no answers. They come from personal stories, thoughtful soundbites, and the ability to make the audience lean in and feel like they know you a little better by the time the segment ends.
What You’ll Learn in This Video
- Why Presentation Matters
How you show up physically affects how you’re received. Wrinkled shirts and sunglasses scream, “I don’t care.” - The Power of Eye Contact
People trust what they can see. Your audience—and interviewer—want to see your eyes. - Bring the Good Stuff
Don’t rely on the interviewer to make the conversation great. Come in with meaningful, prepared stories: a cause you support, a collaboration you loved, a behind-the-scenes moment no one knows yet. - Say No to Surface-Level Answers
A one-word response shuts down the moment. Thoughtful storytelling keeps you in the chair—and gets you invited back. - Show Up, Then Show Out
Treat every interview as a performance. You’re not just answering questions—you’re shaping perception.
Why It Matters
Every media opportunity is a chance to build your reputation, reinforce your brand, and show people who you are beyond the headline. Lazy interviews waste airtime. Smart, story-driven interviews convert followers into fans—and open doors to future appearances, partnerships, and press.
This is what I teach my clients to master. From A-list celebs to first-time founders, my job is to make sure they walk into that studio prepared to connect, not just promote.
On-Camera Tip to Practice
Before your next interview, prep three stories:
- A surprising behind-the-scenes moment
- A recent win or milestone (personal or professional)
- A cause or value you care deeply about
These stories are your anchors—they add depth, invite curiosity, and give the audience a reason to care.
Ready to Shine On Camera?
If you want to feel confident walking into any studio, red carpet, or Zoom room—let’s talk.
For more media training insights, check out these articles: Storytelling That Connects and How to Look Good on Camera.
Schedule a media training inquiry here.
Alison Deyette is the CEO of Alison Deyette Media and a seasoned media trainer and brand strategist with two decades of experience both on camera and behind the scenes. She works with a wide-ranging roster—from rookie and professional athletes, CEOs to breakout entrepreneurs, musicians and celebrities—helping them sharpen their message, navigate high-stakes media moments, and build a presence that sticks (in a good way).
Her background spans television, journalism, directing, and production, with a track record of shaping successful brand-driven content across platforms for companies like Amazon, Don Julio Tequila, TJ Maxx, and The Home Depot. As an on-camera expert, she’s a familiar face on EXTRA, The Kelly Clarkson Show, KTLA, and more. She also contributes to top publications, including The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Real Simple, and The Washington Post—bringing her media savvy full circle, one headline at a time.