How To Be An On-Camera Expert

Building a career as an on-camera expert requires more than just knowledge in your field. It’s about mastering the art of communication, developing a personal brand, and delivering your message with confidence and clarity. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you shine on camera and become the go-to expert interviewers and audiences can’t get enough of.

1. Build Your Brand Image

Your personal brand is your foundation. It’s what makes you memorable and sets you apart from others in your field. To build a magnetic brand, start by identifying your unique strengths and what makes you, you. Don’t try to be everything to everyone. Instead, focus on showcasing the qualities and expertise that make you stand out.

As Oscar Wilde said, "Be yourself; everyone else is already taken." A strong, authentic brand ensures that when people think of your industry, your name is at the top of their minds.

2. Be Prepared

Preparation is key to becoming a trusted on-camera expert. When producers or hosts know you’re reliable, you’re more likely to be invited back. This means doing the work beforehand:

• Research your topic thoroughly.
• Provide detailed segment plans, including talking points and visual aids if necessary.
• Offer producers all the materials they might need, such as bios, product links, or high-quality images.

When you’re prepared, you don’t just look good—you make everyone involved in the production look good too.

3. Know Your Audience

Before you step in front of the camera, understand who you’re speaking to. Watch the show or platform you’ll be featured on to get a feel for its tone and style. This helps you tailor your delivery to resonate with the audience. Are they casual and conversational, or are they looking for in-depth analysis? Knowing this will shape how you present your message.

4. Be Engaging and Clear

Most on-camera segments are short, typically 3-5 minutes. In that time, you need to captivate your audience and deliver your message concisely. Avoid being too technical or vague—find a balance that’s easy for viewers to understand while still showcasing your expertise. Use an engaging tone, smile, and let your enthusiasm shine through.

5. Mind Your Body Language

Your body language speaks volumes. Avoid fidgeting, swiveling in your chair, or making distracting movements. If you’re standing, use natural hand gestures to emphasize your points. If you’re sitting, maintain good posture and stay centered. Small adjustments can make a big difference in how confident and composed you appear.

6. Watch Your Words

Language matters. Avoid filler words like "um," "you know," or "like," which can undermine your credibility. Instead, focus on clear, confident delivery. And while it’s important to be conversational, be mindful of your tone and avoid using jargon that might alienate your audience. Keep it professional but relatable.

7. Stay Centered and Confident

Interviews and live TV segments can throw unexpected challenges your way. Breaking news may cut your segment short, or an interviewer may ask a surprising question. The key is to stay calm and adapt. Practice role-playing scenarios so you’re prepared to pivot gracefully. If a mistake happens, own it with humor or move on seamlessly.

Confidence comes from preparation and practice. Breathe deeply, maintain eye contact, and focus on delivering your key messages.

8. Build Your Confidence Through Practice

Media training and on-camera coaching are invaluable tools for refining your skills. These sessions help you:

• Learn how to handle tough questions.
• Manage nervous energy.
• Deliver concise and impactful sound bites.

Practice makes perfect. The more you rehearse, the more natural and confident you’ll feel when the cameras roll.

9. Stay Ready for Opportunities

Opportunities can arise unexpectedly, so always be prepared. Keep your key messages sharp, your media bio updated, and your social media profiles professional. Whether it’s a last-minute interview request or a sudden panel invitation, being ready ensures you can seize the moment.

10. Roll with the Unexpected

Live TV or interviews are unpredictable. Segments can get cut short, questions can take a surprising turn, or technical issues can arise. The best on-camera experts roll with these challenges without losing their composure. Prioritize your key points and have a clear closing message ready to ensure you leave a strong impression.

11. Keep the Momentum Going

The work doesn’t stop when the cameras turn off. Follow up with producers and hosts to thank them for the opportunity and provide any additional information they may need. Use your segment to build your credibility by sharing it on your social media or website.

The Payoff

Becoming an on-camera expert takes time, effort, and practice, but the rewards are worth it. From boosting your personal brand to gaining the trust of your audience, the skills you develop will open doors to new opportunities and elevate your career. With preparation, confidence, and authenticity, you can own the spotlight and leave a lasting impression.

Alison Deyette, CEO of?AlisonDeyetteMedia?is a seasoned media trainer and brand strategist with 20 years of experience on camera and behind the scenes. Her expertise lies in equipping a diverse clientele from executives to entrepreneurs and athletes to actors with the necessary skills and techniques to effectively navigate media interactions, enhance communication strategies, and uphold a positive public image. She’s held prominent roles in television, journalism, production, directing, and contributing to numerous successful series, segments, and brand-focused projects for TV, digital and print for companies like Amazon, TJ Maxx and The Home Depot. She appears on camera regularly for TV shows including?EXTRA,?The Kelly Clarkson Show, and?KTLA?and contributes to various publications including?The Wall Street Journal,?Real Simple,?The New York Times?and?USA Today.