radio
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Media UK's a great place to look for radio jobs. But how can you make sure that you get the right job for you?
Look for decent jobs
Media UK's a great place to look for radio jobs - and you can also get jobs from us via email too.However, some radio stations aren't enlightened enough to post here - so, for total coverage, you'll sadly have to pick up the occasional dead tree, too. Try the following, all of which have great media jobs sections:
And look out for jobs yourself. Make contacts, ask around, read between the lines in radio news stories or discussion areas.
Applying for the job
Follow the instructions posted in the job advertisement. No, honestly. Sending a massive audio attachment through email or giving a minidisc of stuff when the ad requested a CD, or enclosing a portfolio of pictures of your handsome/sexy body if you're only applying for a music scheduler's job - they all send the wrong message. Good employers want good employees who are good at taking direction. If you fail clear direction at the job ad stage, you risk being "filed locally" before you even get close to an interview.Realise, too, that the point of a CV is to get an interview. And don't be afraid to ring with a few sensible questions before applying - it'll make you more memorable when wading through a lot of applications.
In your cover letter, say something nice about the company you're applying to, particularly if it's a small company. Everyone likes a little flattery. And say why you want to work at the company, and why you'd be the right person for the role.
Send it from a sensible email address, too. If you're applying for a job from fluffybunny86@hotmail.com you'll look like an idiot.
Got an interview?
You're sure to be asked what radio you listen to; and some questions on the radio station you'll be working at. Research. Visit their website, learn their schedule, listen as much as possible before your interview. That way, you'll have a good knowledge of what they do, and how they operate. By sounding knowledgeable and confident about what your station does, you'll be more likely to get the job.But don't lie, too. Don't pretend you normally listen to the radio station if you didn't. You'll be respected for your honesty if you're clear that you normally listen to someone else but you've been listening over the past few weeks.
How do I become a presenter?
For most stations, these vacancies occur very infrequently. When they do, only people with a fair amount of broadcasting experience will normally be considered. If you want to become a radio presenter, you're best starting at a smaller local commercial radio station or hospital radio station to gain valuable experience.But there's more to do in radio than be a DJ - The Radio Academy produced a CD, which they have placed on their website, containing lots of interesting stuff. Take a listen. That link also contains other information about student radio and other useful things to help you. Being a DJ's fun - being behind the scenes is just as fun and can be an awful lot less stressful.
Speculative applications
Mostly, sorry, but these are a waste of time. No, really. 99% of all speculative applications are unrequested, unsuitable, resource-draining tosh. Please save your money, and only apply for a job when you know there is one.That being said, sometimes speculative applications do result in a job offer. It's a bit of pot luck.
Media UK gets an average of two speculative applications a week: but the cat doesn't like strangers and there's no room at the kitchen table for more than one laptop. And I'm using it.
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