by Sorah Devlin

Created on: August 18, 2009

You've been listening to your favorite radio station for years. After hearing how enthused your favorite jockeys are, you start to wonder, "How can I get a job like that?" Some take years of college to prepare themselves for the world of radio, while others simply have the personality to make it far in their chosen field. Do you think the world of radio is somewhere in which you might do well? A little time to think, some preparation, and determination may land you a job behind the mic.

-Experience is golden.

The more you have, the more a prospective boss takes interest in you. But how do you get it in radio? If you're still in college or high school, ask about internships at a local radio station. Most of these are unpaid or at least minimum wage, but they get your foot in the door and show that you have an interest. Not a student? Inquire on board operator positions. These are the people who literally keep the show on the air; who run the sound board to keep levels in check and that commercials or other programming are played when they need to be. Again, it's a rather low level position, but it gets you started. Both of these positions can help you to learn a great deal about radio and the inner workings of a station, and the longer you're there, the more you can prove yourself to the station managers. A Four Year Degree may be smiled upon, but in all honesty, not a necessary thing. Most disc jockeys I've met actually have Two Year Degrees, some simply an interest in High School that blossomed into a radio career. As long as you have a love for the field and the ability to prove yourself, as well as a voice that others can enjoy, you've already got a great start.

-Testing, Testing, 1, 2, 3!

On most radio station websites in their employment sections, if they are hiring for air personalities, they will ask for an air check. What's that mean? Well, remember that excited DJ that made you so interested in radio? Listen to when they are on the air, or what's called the breaks. An air check is a recording of that time, when only the DJ is on the air. It allows them to check what they've said on the air. Being someone who has never been on the air, your version of this won't be exactly the same. However, you can make your own version with a sound recording program, a good mic, and some preparation. Listen to some of the things the DJ's talk about; local events, odd news tidbits, things about artists they play, etc. Make a list of similar things and record yourself talking about them. Be enthusiastic! After all, this is what you want to do for a living, right? Let them see (or hear, in this case) how much you enjoy it!

-Communicate to Talk.

The best way to get a leg up in radio is to simply talk to others. If the radio station you're interested in has live broadcasts, or remotes, in your area, go to them. Talk to the personalities. Develop a networking communication with some of the people who work there. Letting them know that you have an interest can lead to much more. Sometimes even a position elsewhere in the station can lead you to a seat behind the microphone: for example, my own air shift came from working as a secretary for the radio station. After recording a few ads for them, as well as filling in for a few sick personalities a few times, I was offered a chance for my own weekend shift. The current morning show co-host for the same station is also one of the salespeople. Being able to multitask is a blessing for a disc jockey- it gets rather hectic even when you're off the air!

Working in radio can be wonderfully rewarding. Hopefully these tips will help you decide if a career as a personality is right for you, and be a great road map on your way into the studio.

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