Radio Broadcaster

Announcers and DJs typically do the following:

• Present music and information on radio or television shows or at venues
• Interview guests on their shows
• Research topics for comment and discussion during shows
• Read prepared scripts on radio or television shows or at venues
• Provide commentary for the audience during events
• Select program content
• Introduce upcoming acts and guide the audience through the entertainment
• Make promotional appearances at public or private events

Broadcast announcers and radio DJs present music or the news, sports, traffic, and weather. Announcers are expected to be up to date with current events or a specific field, such as politics or sports so that they can comment on these issues during their programs. In addition, they schedule guests on their shows and work with producers to develop other creative content. Radio DJs typically specialize in one kind of music genre and announce selections as they air them. They may take requests from listeners, manage radio contests, or announce traffic conditions.

Broadcast announcers and radio DJs also may be responsible for other aspects of television or radio programming. They may operate studio equipment, sell commercial time to advertisers, or develop advertisements and other recorded material. Many radio stations, do much of the work traditionally done by editors and broadcast technicians, such as broadcasting program schedules, commercials, and public service announcements.

Many broadcast announcers and DJs maintain a presence on social media sites. Establishing a presence allows them to promote their stations and engage with their audiences, especially through listener feedback, music requests, or program contests. They also make promotional appearances at charity functions or other community events.

The following are examples of types of broadcast announcers and radio DJs:

• Podcasters stream live or record shows that can be downloaded for listening at any time. Like traditional talk radio, podcasts typically focus on a specific subject, such as sports, politics, or movies. Podcasters may interview guests and experts on the specific program topic. Listeners may subscribe to a podcast to have new episodes automatically downloaded to their computers or mobile devices.
• Talk show hosts may work in radio or television and specialize in an area of interest, such as politics, personal finance, sports, or health. They contribute to the preparation of program content, interview guests, and discuss issues with viewers, listeners, or the studio audience.

DJs, except radio play prerecorded music for live audiences at a variety of venues or events, including clubs, parties, and wedding receptions. The following are examples of types of DJs, except radio:

• Emcees host planned events. They introduce speakers or performers to the audience. They may tell jokes or provide commentary to transition from one speaker to the next.
• Party DJs are hired to provide music and commentary at an event, such as a wedding, a birthday party, or a corporate party.

Business skills. DJs, except radio who are self-employed, must be able to market themselves and identify clients. They also need to manage the details of their business, including billing, budgeting, and other financial matters.

Computer skills. Announcers and DJs, especially those seeking careers in radio or television, should be comfortable using editing software and other broadcast-related devices.

Interpersonal skills. Broadcast announcers and radio DJs interview guests, answer phone calls on-air and may interact with listeners on social media. Party DJs and emcees should be comfortable working with clients to plan entertainment options.

Persistence. Entry into this occupation is very competitive, and candidates may need to audition many times for an opportunity to work on the air. Entry-level broadcast announcers and radio DJs must be willing to work for a small station to secure their first job.

Research skills. Announcers and DJs must research important topics of the day in order to be knowledgeable enough to comment on them during their program.

Speaking skills. Announcers and DJs must have a pleasant and well-controlled voice, good timing, and excellent pronunciation. Party DJs and emcees must be comfortable speaking to large audiences.

Writing skills. Announcers and DJs need strong writing skills because they normally write their own material.

• Radio broadcasting    
• Self-employed workers    
• Television broadcasting    
• Performing arts, spectator sports, and related industries    
• Educational services; state, local, and private