Perseverance Is Essential
Question: "I am in my late 30's and live in Chicago. I applied to internships that are open to any age (which are only at a couple of stations), but have had no luck yet, though I'm going to try again. What is an alternative to internships? … all of them are formal, and most are only for college students. Should I contact Human Resources, or what should I do? Is it possible to move from sales into broadcasting, or is it set up so that once you're in sales you're stuck there?" – Margaret
Answer: It's always a challenge to get your foot in the door - even if it's only for an internship. You're in a very competitive market so, naturally, you're going to run into difficulties. There's no magic trick to getting this done. Perseverance is your only aid. Stations are not apt to give you the time of day. I worked in Chicago - I know how intense it is there.
Have you considered stations further out into the suburbs - maybe 60 or more miles from the city? Smaller stations are more apt to need extra help - especially if you offer it for free. Working for free will give you experience, insight, and contacts. Don't be afraid to put some sweat equity into it.
On your other question, yes: it is possible to move from sales into broadcasting. I know because I did it. When I was first trying to get into Radio, the only job anyone would consider giving me was selling commercials. I worked two sales jobs until I found a station in Pennsylvania that allowed me to do the morning show – as long as I sold the rest of the day. How could I refuse? That experience gave me the transitional tools to finally move completely out of sales into programming.
(By the way: Margaret did persevere – and recently emailed me to say she had gotten her first Radio job. She applied for an internship and wound up getting a paid position!)
Other Options For Experience
Question: "…I am really looking to get into radio. It is the only thing I have wanted to do since I was little...I am currently working at a hospital radio station, which I have been working at for about a year now. I am looking to send out some letters of internships to my local radio station. What would be your advice if neither of the stations take me on?" - Chas
Answer: Create a resume that includes your radio experience and any other experience which lends itself to your pursuit. For instance: have you assisted in any promotions? Do you understand automation software? Everyone has skills that are relevant to other fields. Don't discount clerical, word-processing, and other office skills. They're all important.
Make your resume clean and neat and one page if you can. Be impressive without boasting too much. Write a cover letter that expresses your commitment and motivation for interning. Then, spread it around to every station you can. Make sure you follow up with a phone call - and another phone call a few weeks later.
Remember: if things don't work out right away, you have options for experience. How about starting your own Podcast or your own Internet radio station or show? You can do it for practically nothing and the experience will be beneficial plus you might just pick up some fans!
