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Pushing Your Way Into Radio

One of the Best Ways to Get Hired

By Corey Deitz, About.com

Jun 11 2008
Well, it’s happened again: another person I know has literally pushed himself into Radio by sheer force. I got an email this week announcing the newest addition to our promotion department: a nice guy who a year ago was just a listener very interested in Radio. Now, he’s got paying hours and can wear a staff shirt proudly.

He's in. If he does his job and works hard, I have no doubt other opportunities will present themselves.

Over the years, I have been asked over and over again about the best way to break into Radio. I always advise people to just start making yourself known at a local radio station.

On the simplest level, that means calling and getting to know the station's personalities. Showing up at their appearances and remotes, introducing yourself, and allowing the on-air people to get to know you (and not in some weird, stalker way).

Once folks know you – and begin to trust you a little – you can volunteer to help out. The promotion department is almost always looking for some extra help because quite honestly, there's a bit of "grunt" involved in promotions and Promotion Directors don’t usually turn down free help.

Pay it Forward

Your volunteerism might be directed toward the morning show by offering to help with their events or stunts.

Free labor is gladly accepted in many businesses and Radio is no exception. Dependable and free labor is especially noticed.

Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there by paying it forward. It will come back to you.

Even if your ultimate goal is being on-the-air, if you are mature enough to recognize that most people do not walk into jobs like that but rather, set themselves up to be invited into those opportunities, then you’re starting to see the big picture.

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