How Can I Become a Radio Personality?
Posted by David Huffman on Mon, Mar 07, 2011 @ 12:54 PM
by Phil Brown
Ohio Center for Broadcasting
Cincinnati Campus
brown.p@beonair.com
We’ve all heard it through the years…the big booming voice on the radio!
Is that what you need to be considered a radio disc jockey?
Not at all…
Presently, you’ll hear all types of voices:
- conversational
- middle of the road
- irritating
- humorous and everything in between.
I’m not saying that if you do have that big booming voice that there’s not a place for you.
What I am saying is that it takes perseverance, passion, tenacity and the willingness to go wherever you have to in order to get the gig.
Some other things you'll need:
Hmm, the word strategy used three times in those bullet points above. Here's what I'm getting at: If you think that you’ll rely on getting a lucky break, think again. You need a sound strategy to start your journey.
The broadcast industry employing you as a radio disc jockey has elements that make you a successful jock.
Perhaps we should toss out the word “jock” and change that to personality. Your personality is unique and what makes us all individuals.
Your personality needs to include:
- Knowing in depth different formats of music
- How to sound: Real? Engaging? Authoritative? Warm? Inviting? Energetic?
- Up on current local events
- Selling yourself and not sounding like someone you’re not
This is just the tip of the iceberg. If you’re ready to start the journey then think through the few things mentioned above.
Do you have the interest in learning what it takes to be a radio personality?
Photo Credit: VancouverFilmSchool
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The next step in learning about whether or not a career in radio or television is right for you is to check out types of careers in the industry.
