How to Audition To Be a QVC Host

QVC, the shopping network where you can buy everything from hangers to pots and pans would not be anything without its hosts. A QVC host is part cheerleader for a celebrity guest, part M.C. executing the orders of producers to end a slow-selling item's air time gracefully and part fantasy friend to viewers coaxing them to call. While many of its hosts do have media backgrounds, QVC does actually hold open auditions and encourages its viewers to come try out for the job. So, if you think you have what it takes and would like to try your hand at auditioning for this coveted spot, then please read on for a few tips to help you get on your QVC way.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Working knowledge of cosmetics, computers, pots, pans, cooking utensils, clothes, bedding, exercise equipment, shoes, jewelry, hangers, etc.
• Ability to demonstrate this knowledge live and on air.

1. Read the users manual for every item that you own and memorize them inside and out. The hosts on QVC are expected to know the inner workings of every item they sell and they have to know the item like the back of their hand. Of course, they must also make it sound interesting and make it sound like this item is something that the viewers could not possibly live without. So as you memorize the users manual, try rewording them into dialogue that sounds fascinating and maybe even, life changing.
2. Practice using each and every item that you own. Along with memorizing the inner workings of items, you have to demonstrate this knowledge on air. So walk around your house and take out every electronic piece, every can opener, every piece of clothing and practice demonstrating how to use the item in front of a mirror. As you demonstrate the item, remember to smile and talk about it like it's something that a person would absolutely die if they didn't purchase.
3. Practice in front of your friends. Invite some close friends over and have a QVC party and pretend you're either Lisa Robertson or Rick Domeier. Practice selling items to your friends just as if you were live on QVC. At first it may seem like you're selling ice cubes to an Eskimo, but after time you'll get the hang of it and who knows, you may actually wind up selling some of your stuff to your friends and make some extra money!
4. Dress the part. You know the inner workings of every piece of merchandise you own but now, what to wear? Well, if you've watched QVC enough you'll notice that the hosts always look put together, but not overdone. If you're a woman, wear a tasteful dress or pantsuit and not too much makeup. If you're a man, also dress tastefully, wearing either a business suit or dress business casual, wearing khaki pants and business shirt.
5. It's the day of the audition. What to expect? Well, auditioning for a host spot, you are asked to bring an item from your house that you have to try to sell on camera. Most people bring a picture frame or a piece of equipment. Then those two minutes feel like an eternity. Will you be the one however, who passes the test?
6. You may also try auditioning by sending in a tape. But do remember if they like your tape and they ask you to come down to audition in person, you will have to eventually sit down in front of the camera and do your spiel live, so be prepared.

Tips & Warnings

• To be a host, the trick is to be yourself. The entire theme of QVC is that it's like a backyard fence where two neighbors are chatting. You need a combination of sales experience and acting. If you try to be a host, the audience will see right through it.
• If you don't get in this time, you can always try again.