Common Telethon Mistakes

The following are seven common mistakes WRUW programmers make during the telethon. Each is a complete "lesson" in what to avoid doing during your telethon show.

(Updated) Telethon Mistake #1:
Not Attending How to Beg

You can always tell when a programmer hasn't been trained in 'How to Beg'. Invariably, the person sounds ...(read more)

(Updated) Telethon Mistake #2:
Thinking You Can Wing it (updated)

Do you know what it sounds like when someone is winging it during the fundraiser? Let me help you ... (read more)

(Updated) Telethon Mistake #3:
Not Focusing on the Listener's Interests

Do you remember when you were a kid, and you saw something you really wanted? Maybe it was a toy, a ... (read more)

(Updated) Telethon Mistake #4:
Drowning the Listener in Premiums

You can learn a lot about how to talk about telethon premiums by going to a restaurant. Imagine this scenario ... (read more)

(Updated) Telethon Mistake #5:
Assuming the Listener Can't Afford to Give

A few years ago, I was hosting a 'How to Beg' session on a weeknight before the telethon. One of the attendees, no longer with the station, said the following statement ... (read more)

(Updated) Telethon Mistake #6:
Getting the Facts Wrong

Every year during the telethon there are people on our station who just don’t 'get it.' They don’t pay attention to ... (read more)

(Updated) Telethon Mistake #7:
Acting and Sounding Discouraged

During your telethon show you will experience an entire spectrum of emotions. When you start the fundraiser you'll experience nervousness about ... (read more)