I actually know a few people who have been on Oprah, so the Six Degrees of Separation is working in my favor. But there is a right and a wrong way to ask for their advice:
DON'T ask: "Would you introduce my friend Ramit to Oprah's producers?"
DO ask: "I would love to get my friend Ramit on Oprah because his book would make a great topic for a show. What is your best advice for connecting with the show's producers?"
The first approach puts them on the spot. Even though we are friendly, they may not be willing to risk their personal relationship to introduce me. The second approach is much less pressure on them, and I can learn valuable information that will serve me in other situations, like convincing Today Show producers to have Matt Lauer interview me when my book comes out.
clipped from: www.escapefromcubiclenation.com