Radio Producers work in quite a few stations and programmes providing for all music tastes. Producers in speech radio work in a range of genres from topical shows to documentaries, drama and comedy. they have to be willing to work in a variety of shift patterns (night shifts, weekends and holidays). Sometimes they will also be expected to be able to travel long distances in a short amount of time.
Radio producers have to create programme content and manage all the production process for live and recorded programmes. They have to come up with original ideas and research in depth. Also they must understand the media law, regulation and industry codes to know how to source music or audio archive material and to make sure the licences or clearances are obtained.
They should be able to work and record in different studios on location and are required to record interviews as well as other things such as edit and present things for broadcast when necessary. Also some radio producers will have to write material for websites, blogs or any other platforms and preparing images, video and audio footage for use online.
They're responsible for managing budgets and making sure the efficient use of resources by programme teams. Also they're expected to respond to listeners comments and taking on complaints.
How do you get into the job?
There are two paths into radio production for graduates, an undergraduate degree in radio or media production or first degree in any subject, also a post graduate diploma or MA in radio production. A few larger broadcasters may offer limited numbers of direct entry traineeships, others may work their way up from entry level roles with or without a degree.
Whatever qualifications and individual have, employers want to see evidence of interest in and hands on experience of radio broadcasting, especially skills gained through community radio, student of hospital.
To become a more successful radio producers most move to a larger station to programme for a larger audience, or from a local to regional or a national service. Some radio producers decide they want to do something to do with TV, but others become presenters, programme editors or move into radio managment roles.
What essential knowledge and skills do you need?
To be a radio presenter there are quite a lot of essential knowledge and skills you must understand and be aware of, such as:
- ability to generate original ideas, and to think creatively about how to communicate them
- ability to work effectively under pressure, react quickly, and meet tight deadlines
- knowledge of the Radio market, different station and programme styles, and audience demographics
- a high level of IT skills - particularly good word-processing and data handling skills
That is just a few, there are any more.
Salary
Salaries may start at around £12,000 but with experience, a radio producer may earn £20,000 to £30,000, top producers on national stations may earn up to £80,000 and freelance rates are around £190 to £300 per day. This all depends on the employer and where you live.
Jobs
http://www.mediauk.com/radio/jobs/18040/breakfast-producer
