Booking appearances by ACE representatives on local radio and television talk show programs gives
organizations opportunities to boost awareness and inform the public about programs.
Scheduling an Interview:
Start by calling local radio, television and cable stations and talking to producers of morning shows and
special evening programs about becoming a guest. If there is not a specific issue facing the program,
discuss general program information.
Suggested Talking Points
- The majority of the community is not taking advantage of ACE programs
- ACE offers important skills such as basic reading, writing and arithmetic, as well as teaching English to
those who speak other languages
- ACE assists adults with disabilities in developing skills to become contributing members of the community,
including daily on-the-job training.
- ACE is the primary provider of adult education classes in the community (if applicable).
List three more points that might increase a TV or radio station's interest
in your organization, and convince them to schedule an interview.
Preparing for an Interview
Inquire About Format
- How long will the interview be?
- Will there be an opportunity for general Q & A?
- Can the organization bring students from ACE programs to be interview guests? How many guests
total should attend the interview?
- When scheduling a television interview, ask the contact person about appropriate dress for the
TV studio.
Prepare the Spokesperson
- Choose a person from the organization to attend the interview. Inform the station of this
information ahead of time.
- Prepare index cards with speaking topics for the spokesperson
- Encourage the representative to arrive early for the interview. Have them bring two ACE
information kits (one for him/herself and one for the host).
Keep Communication Flowing
- Mail an ACE information kit to the show's host prior to the interview, so that he/or she is familiar
with the programs the organization offers.
- Provide them with some background on the representative.
- Call a few days before the interview to confirm the date and time.