by Yvonne Moore

Created on: May 27, 2008

Obtaining a job in broadcasting is much harder than most imagine. Having been married to a college student majoring in broadcasting and following his career for 23 years, I with confidence can state that the challenges of entering this field are far greater than many other college graduates. However, obtaining a bachelor's degree is the first way to gain a competitive advantage to those thinking all that is required is to have a deep, confident, sexy voice or a pretty face.

Once a broadcasting student, volunteering on the university's radio or TV station is a must. This will enable on-air recordings of skills which can later be used as a broadcasting resume. Being that many universities are located in areas offering other media venues, broadcasting students should use their on-air resumes to apply for overnight or weekend shift work at local stations. This is an important decision when entering the field. The reason being is that playing the top 40 hits or reporting current news events does not stop at 5:00 p.m., during the weekends or holidays. Accepting this fate as an entry level broadcaster will permit job opportunities and career growth at a faster pace.

The second suggestion for novice broadcasters is to not be selective. For example, it matters not if country music is one's personal favorite. If there is a job vacancy at a nearby country station, no matter their ratings or format, those with broadcasting aspirations should apply. The more diverse experience gained the better.

The third recommendation is to accept any offer in which there is an opportunity to expose oneself to the public on behalf of the station currently employed with. This includes volunteering for minimal fees to broadcast at paid remotes. Announcing grand openings at car dealerships or representing the station at public festivals will aid in creating a following and bonding of listeners. This devotion and following goes a long way for a young broadcaster. It can make the difference in being considered as a viable candidate should a morning or mid-day shift vacancy with the station come available.

The next advice is to continuously record on-air productions. Broadcasting stations frequently change their formats or sell at a moment's notice. Being prepared to seek other employment opportunities should always be in the minds of broadcasters, no matter their experience level or name recognition. Furthermore, these recordings can be used to apply for additional voice work with private companies which create radio and TV commercials for clients. This freelancing work not only supplements a junior broadcaster's income but expands their work experience.

The final recommendation is to not forget other broadcasting employment opportunities such as reporting local traffic in metropolitan areas, a growing niche industry. Syndicated talk radio show networks around the country also need broadcasting producers and operators. These type positions typically require little experience.

In closing, as with many other creative type careers, success in broadcasting depends on perseverance and flexibility.

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