A former co-worker called me “The King Of Props.” I often used props in my live shots. I sometimes scored. The live shot turned out well. The prop made it interesting. People complimented me. Other times, I broke the rule about moderation, forced myself to use a prop, turning it more into a distraction.
I recently watched a national news correspondent hold up a prop. Correspondents don’t often use props. I imagine some correspondents feel at their level, using a prop might appear unprofessional. The problem in this particular case: The reporter seemed uncomfortable holding a prop. He reminded me of a bad dancer trying to pull off the latest moves on the dance floor. Something looked unnatural.
I recommend businesses use props when appearing for the media. Using props helps engage an audience. Since I graduated from college, people in broadcast journalism stressed engaging live shots and encouraged young reporters to walk and talk. In reality, few TV reporters do it regularly. So whether someone is interviewing you live or on tape, using props often separates you from others. You’re being different. The key: Be natural. I watch reporters hold up props and remind me of the Tin Man from The Wizard Of Oz. They act robotic as if needing someone to spritz them with oil. Some people are so focused on looking good and speaking perfectly when with the media, holding a prop throws them off balance. Be comfortable or the prop backfires.
The first step is simply holding or pointing to a prop. The next step is using a prop that actually does something in the true sense of show and tell. Push a button and something happens. Pull the prop apart and reveal something inside. Put pen to paper and demonstrate something.
You can always find reasons not to try. Push the prop envelope. Try it. And that’s coming from the King Of Props.