What’s a TV interview worth for an aspiring writer?
I had a call from a producer working on the Lifetime Television Network. An opportunity to be interviewed on their early morning program, The Balancing Act. To discuss my latest western novel, Escape from the Alamo.
Heart-stopping! Details to be settled sometime in the next few days. I signed a “Product Insertion Order.”
Here’s the rub – There’s a “scheduling fee.”
Some of my writer friends thought I should pass it by. Don’t pay anything for an interview, they said. It’s not a major network. What you are doing is an infomercial.
Others pointed out that you have to pay for advertising. This is national TV. Great exposure. Go for it!
I plan to go ahead with this one, pending on the final details. Fly to Florida and be taped in their studio.
Skeptics ask – Do you expect to see an immediate jump in book sales? If not, you’ve wasted your money. I reply that there may be long-range benefits to that kind of exposure, even if it doesn’t pay off in the short term.
So, winner or loser? My friends, what’s your advice? Breakthrough or waste of money?
I’ll let you know if and when this interview will be aired. Keep your fingers crossed.
Dac Crossley
July 5, 2011
The six most important words an author may say: “Nice to see you again, Oprah.” – Dan Poynter’s Self-Publishing Manual.
Make sure you have some control over the editing and final product of this "interview" you're paying for. Make sure there is a script. I'd be very careful.
Posted by: Judy Gunn | July 09, 2011 at 04:39 PM
I agree with all your friends with their positive responses! I look forward to the interview!
Posted by: Jane Bedell | July 08, 2011 at 10:23 AM
Greetings Dac,
Heck yes, go for the interview. At the least they will be introduced to ya magnetic personality, your solid scientific wit, your dashing persona, and who knows you may even be able to work in some discussion of the species abundance & distribution of Oppiella nova Oudemans. Carpe Diem, Professor.
Posted by: Dan Hagan | July 07, 2011 at 06:59 PM
Hey Dac, Go for it! It will be an unforgettable experience and I siscerely believe it is aabove board. More power to ya. Love, Linda
Posted by: Linda Adams | July 06, 2011 at 02:43 PM
WooHoo!! Do you need a chaperone? I'll drive you!! Any opportunity to get the brand out is good. Tv coverage, residuals, reruns...go for it!
Posted by: Paige | July 06, 2011 at 09:49 AM
The fact that someone recognized an indie writer at all leaves something to be said for obtuse opportunities.I say, go for it! Any movement forward is still movement. You know what S. King says...'If it isn't a wheel- it's a brake!'
Take the leap...and then give them my name! LOL
Posted by: T.A. Powell | July 06, 2011 at 07:15 AM
Dearest Dac--here's your friend, Miss Skeptic--I always stop and wonder if this is a scam.I've read of numerous authors getting offers "to write their story into a screenplay and make a movie of it,--for XX number of dollars."
Interviews for a TV show? I haven't seen this, so might be tempted to play it out. However, I have a real aversion to paying for an invitation.
But you're a much braver person than I, so I wish you well, I am behind you, and I certainly want to see the interview. Celia
Posted by: Celia Yeary | July 05, 2011 at 04:32 PM
Adventure -- then you can tell the rest of us about the great time you had. Oh yes, wear your hat.
Irene
Posted by: irene black | July 05, 2011 at 01:19 PM
Go for it!!!
Posted by: Lizsteve55 | July 05, 2011 at 01:07 PM
A lot of people watch Lifetime; now you will know whether this kind of interview is worthwhile and can advise your friends. Enjoy the experience and Fl.Carole H.
Posted by: carole Hayden | July 05, 2011 at 12:02 PM
We get Lifetime. Keep me posted on the date, time,etc.
Posted by: EJ | July 05, 2011 at 11:32 AM
Hi Dac,
I think you should do it. A great adventure and broadens your world. Spend a few
extra days in Florida - vacation too. Keep
us posted. Congratulations.
Posted by: Jan Okey | July 05, 2011 at 10:53 AM
If you can budget the time and fee, it's part of your profession. Semper Fi, Dac, bowl 'em over.
Posted by: Mark Davis | July 05, 2011 at 10:30 AM
If you can afford it, why not? You never know until you try something.
Posted by: J. R. Lindermuth | July 05, 2011 at 10:22 AM
Hi, Dac.
I agree: Go for it! You wrote your books to have fun. This is part of the fun. Congratulations!
Betty Jean
Posted by: Betty Jean Craige | July 05, 2011 at 09:43 AM
Beyond possibly increasing your book sales, I think that your example of starting a new career after retirement will be very inspiring for viewers. By all means, go for it!
Posted by: kitti Reynolds | July 05, 2011 at 09:43 AM
You don't ever want to say "I wish I had done that." In this case, "I wish I hadn't" doesn't even come close. Go for it and let us know when.
Chris
Posted by: Chris Antenen | July 05, 2011 at 09:26 AM