Callers can play a very important role in WPR’s talk programs. That is why call screeners are so careful about deciding which comments and questions to put on-air.
Guidelines for Talk Show Callers
Be On Topic
Before you call, listen to the host’s introduction or recap of the show topic and guest. Note the questions posed. Make sure what you want to say is directly related to the topic and ask yourself, “Can the guest address this?”
Be Prepared
Know what you want to say, and how you want to say it, before you call.
Be Understanding
When you phone in, the first person you will talk to is the call screener. It is his or her job to understand what you are going to say on the air and decide whether or not to put your call through. If your point is off topic, or something the guest cannot address, or if it was covered earlier in the show, the call screener will ask you to call another time. Calls are not taken in order, but based on where your comment fits into the program.
Be Brief
When your call is taken, please get right to your comment and make your most important point first. There may not be time for you to make multiple points or have a follow-up with the guest.
Stay On Point
The host takes your call based on what you told the screener. Don’t change your comment while you’re on hold.
Add To The Discussion
As a caller you become part of the show, and it is your role to further the discussion. Your comment should add to the content of the show. Ask a question, tell a story or let us know your opinion on the issue.
No Personal Attacks
It is fine to disagree with a point of view, but personal attacks are not allowed. No name-calling, slander, or hate speech including any disparaging remarks based on race, sex, gender or other form of personal identity. And under no circumstances will we take any calls that are threatening, harassing, bullying, or obscene. This applies to your conversation with producers, hosts and guests.
One Call Per Week
The Ideas Network aims to have a wide variety of callers. You might be interested in contributing to many of the shows you hear, however you are limited to one on-air question or comment per week. The exception to this rule is “open-lines” seeking program topic suggestions.
Phone Quality
Use the phone handset, not the speakerphone option or a headset. They both reduce the audio quality of your call when you are on the air. If you are calling on a cell phone please be sure you have a strong signal. If you are in your car, for your own safety and the quality of your signal, please pull over.
Turn Off Your Radio
We have a slight broadcast delay and having your radio on can cause you to miss your turn. Please turn our radio off before you call in. You can listen to the program live on your telephone while you are on hold.
Get To Your Point
Don’t say, “Can you hear me?” or “Good morning/Afternoon,” (we may repeat the show) “First time caller,” “Thanks for taking my call,” “Hi this is [name] in [city],” Just say hello and start talking.
Social Media
If you are joining the conversation through social media, please review and follow our social media guidelines.