Broadcasting Career Tips

In the dawn of the increasingly digitized millennium, interest in broadcasting careers is its peak. People from communications, media, and technical backgrounds are all flocking to this diverse field, which seems to offer a vocation for everyone. As interest increases, competition steepens, and it's hard to have an edge on your market of choice. Whether you are a broadcasting major, a radio station intern, or an apprentice in a broadcast training program, there are key steps you can take to land your ideal broadcasting job. Below are tips on how to land your dream broadcasting career.

Be patient – This may not be the most popular advice, but it's important to know a broadcasting career takes time, so don't get frustrated early on. Don't be in a huge hurry to mail your stuff to every station in the area. Take some time, perfecting a sample of your best work. Most employers only watch the first thirty seconds of each reel, so make sure to take some time prioritizing. If you're mailing a tape, include a label with your name address and phone number and if you want your tape back, include a self-addressed envelope. Similarly, understand that each position you are applying for probably has a high volume of applicants; so don't feel distressed if you don't hear back right away. A general response time is three weeks to a month, so after that it's acceptable to call and check on your application, but not before. Remember: a broadcasting career takes time, so practice patience from the beginning for a frustration-free job search.

Be willing to settle – The truth is, most aspiring broadcasters are lucky to get even an entry level job in a small market, so be flexible when considering your options. Be willing to work in a smaller market than you originally planned. Let your boss know you will work the long and irregular hours required of a broadcaster, and don't hold out for a higher salary than what's offered. Most stations offer only what they can afford, so holding out may have you out of a job. If you're looking for a nine to five job with a thirty thousand dollar starting salary, broadcasting is not for you.

Utilize your internships/apprenticeships – Internships and apprentice-training programs are a great way to get your foot in the door. But in order to get more than a foot in, you need to treat your internship or apprenticeship like your very first broadcasting job. Treat it like a real job. Show up on time, fill in anywhere you can, and be visible, positive, and available. Benefit from the mentors all around. Who knows where this opportunity will take you?

Round it out – Every broadcasting applicant is interested in broadcasting. That's a given. But what makes you stand out? Round out your skills for better broadcasting job opportunities. Computer and media skills, for example, are more important than ever in the broadcasting business, and many employers actually require them now in order to consider applicants Communications majors are a dime a dozen in the broadcasting world, so consider minoring in computer programming or graphic design to make yourself more appealing. Or, if you are interested in the reporting side of broadcasting, study politics or history, some area of expertise to offer the airwaves. A well-rounded applicant has a better shot at landing a dream broadcasting career.

Practical stuff – Practically, there are a few little things you can do to improve your shot at a broadcasting career. Read trade publications and industry news to stay up to date on what's happening in broadcasting, industry slang, and what companies are hiring and firing. Also, maintain a good driving record. If a company can't insure you, they can't hire you, so watch that road rage. Good driving skills and reading a weekly broadcasting magazine are two hidden practical ways to get an edge on the competition and land the broadcasting career of your dreams!

Now go out there and get it! Good luck!