It has become more competitive than ever in today's current business climate. There are millions of products hitting the market every year, many which die within the first few months after launching. How can you stay competitive and keep consumers educated about your company, product or service? The answer is by harnessing the power of public relations.

PR can help you reach a broad national and local consumer base through talk radio, television and print.

Television is one of the most popular of these mediums as it seems that everyone nowadays wants their "15 minutes of fame." " As viewers expect to see celebrities on TV, when you appear as a guest on a TV show your credibility goes sky high" says Marsha Friedman, Founder of EMSI , a national public relations firm. Here Friedman will shed more light on the television medium and offer some insights on how to get the most out of your time on-air.

1. Visuals, visuals, visuals. The great thing about TV is that you get to see what is going on in addition to being able to hear what is going on. ." Friedman says, " Producers look for newsworthy topics that are visual and entertaining. Compelling content is an absolute must! "

In working out a visual for your appearance a trick you can use is to ask yourself how you would explain your message to a child. What pictures can you use that will translate into graphics for a TV story? "For starters , if you sell life insurance your 'visuals' could be graphs of the mortality rate of women vs. men to match your conversation about why women need to protect themselves and their children against the loss of their spouses" adds Friedman .

2. All newscasts have different demographics. Friedman says, "All of the main newscasts of the day are directly targeted to a drastically different audience . The early morning shows are usually watched by working adults and families getting ready for school. The afternoon newscasts are more lifestyle oriented. The evening shows are more focused on getting the hard news out. " So when you are deciding on what newscast, make sure to know what market you are trying to target and choose accordingly.

3. Work on sound bites. Interviews on television are typically no longer than 5 minutes in length. So you really have to know how to get your message across to the audience in the short time span. Friedman says, " Before you go on air really get your sound bites down. When you are appearing in front of millions of household nationwide, a little practice before hand would not go amiss. " 4. Appearance is everything. There is nothing worse than seeing a television show guest who looks like a slob. The sad truth is that audience members are not really going to believe a person who looks like a bum. Friedman adds, " Make sure you look good as your appearance will make a lasting impression. Do your clothes fit well (not too tight)? Are they clean and pressed (not old and ratty looking)? Do your shoes look professional? Try not to wear a shirt with a loud pattern or you will give viewers a headache. " A professional, clean and pressed look will help the audience, and the host, to focus on your powerful message.

So now you are ready for your close up! If you would like to learn more about gaining national media exposure for your company, product or service, without the financial burden of monthly retainers, Friedman is available to be of service . Feel free to contact her directly at mfriedman@emsincorporated.com or visit her firm online at http://www.emsincorporated.com. As a public relations expert Friedman has the ability to get the media attention that you desire without monthly retainers .

Marsha Friedman has been a leading authority on public relations for nearly two decades as CEO of Event Management Services, Inc (EMSI). If you would like to receive her free Ebook "How to Be a Great Talk Radio Guest" visit http://www.emsincorporated.com.