How to call in to a talk radio show

First, never call in to a talk radio program while you are driving -- holding your own against an aggressive radio host can be distracting on its own, and paying attention to the road should always be your first priority.

Call in to a show as early as you can. If the line is busy, wait a few seconds and try again. Most radio shows have far more callers than can be accommodated on air.

Before you go on the air, you will briefly talk with a "screener." The screener works in the radio station and, as the name implies, helps the radio host to select calls that will be appropriate and entertaining. The screener will ask your name, location, phone number, and the topic of your call. Make sure the topic of your call is clear and concise. For example: "I want to ask Mr. Doe why the economy is so weak."

Many callers that make it past the screener do not get a chance to talk with the radio host due to the volume of calls. If you are fortunate enough to make it on the air, state your point or question clearly and firmly. If you are interrupted before you can complete your point or question, kindly but firmly say, "Please let me finish my point." If the host tries to change your point or question or responds with a separate question, simply re-state your point or question. If you are asked personal questions, feel free to answer, "My personal life is not related to my point or question."

It is very important that you stay calm, concise, and clear -- regardless of how the host responds to your point or question. If the host begins attacking you (rare, but it does happen, especially on right-wing radio shows), there's never any good that can come from attacking the host in return -- after all, it's his or her show. A short response such as "Don't attack the messenger for the message," or "Please respond to my point and refrain from name-calling" can effectively foil aggressive radio hosts.