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TV Appearances

by Andy Schatz · 09/27/2007 (3:41 pm) · 3 comments

I've been on TV a bunch lately. Links to some of the appearances:

Talking about Halo, M-rated games and more on the Halo launch day on Fox 6 San Diego:
(by the way, Angela Chee, the interviewer, was in Blades of Glory, as, you guessed it, an anchorwoman)
www.youtube.com/watch?v=iTFADd2W5RI

Venture Arctic on KUSI:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=tC4ee6OFaGQ

Venture Arctic on KFMB
www.youtube.com/watch?v=kBmHpa2zx14


A short post with regards to a TV PR strategy:

The following thoughts, by the way, are essentially parrotting what my PR Agent believes. I don't have a ton of experience or knowledge in the matter, but his thoughts might be enlightening for some.

TV Appearances don't generate sales. You will not see an increase in website traffic due to a TV appearance. BUT, they can raise your profile, the profile of your company, and your access to press.

National TV appearances are often not as useful as local TV appearances. With national news, the power is in the hands of the networks: they don't want to advertise your games. You are there as a service to the news shows. You'll be lucky to even get your company name on screen, and there's very little chance you can get your website up there.

Local TV Appearances are generally a bit more gracious to their guests. They are willing to put your website on screen, and on their website as well. Also, with local TV appearances, you can develop relationships with individuals at the networks. I'm starting to become one of the go-to guys for the local Fox station on video game issues.

Talking to media takes practice, of course. I've grown to enjoy this sort of thing, but it's not easy. Being clear and concise yet conversational is something I am still learning. So, when you have an interesting product with a compelling story, why not try it out! Don't dream too big! Start small! After all, the smaller venues often are more gracious and appreciative to their guests.

#1
09/27/2007 (4:23 pm)
You have a PR agent? Damn. You really are my indie hero.
#2
09/27/2007 (4:27 pm)
I've noticed that once you get "on the books" for a certain thing, you often become the go-to person for it.

I've been on my local radio show a few times about game related issues now. I'm on thier list of games commentators.

Trouble is, its always at short notice and always on some early morning show so I have to get up at like 4am :)
#3
09/28/2007 (11:29 am)
Venture Arctic on KUSI and KFMB? You mean TORQUE on KUSI and KFMB! ;)
Watched the first one, great job, it's hard when you're on the spot like that.
I love the title below your name, "Video Game Expert" (instead of designer/producer/whatever).
Very cool Andy.