A Loyal Reader writes:
“I’ve just been promoted to Program Director (in addition to already doing Mornings).
“I wondered if you had any words of advice to pass on from all the extensive wisdom that’s plopped into your head from your years in the industry.”
Sure.
Learn all you can.
Be aware there usually is more than one “correct” way to do things.
Be aware that there always is stuff you haven’t learned or discovered yet.
Learn how to delegate. Immediately.
Know that you’re stepping into the loneliest job in the radio station. You’ll no longer be “one of the jocks,” Sales will perceive you as a perceptual roadblock to their efforts to bring in the cash, and Management will blame every station hiccup (including the tower being struck by lightning) on you.
Oh, and try not to turn into a jerk.
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Luv it Dan!!!
Don’t forget to duck!!! 🙂
That’s about right!
I would have to add production director to that description also, with the exception of the tower being struck by lightning.
Everything else regarding a spot not going to air was blamed on the Prod Director..regardless of who’d fault it really was.
It’s lonely at the top…uh…middle…..
I’ve been trying to “break in” to programming for 22 years, I’ve worn all the hats but sales, add social media guru, janitor, overnight jock when otto-mation fails, computer wizard, cart winder (if you’ve been in this as long as I have you know what I’m talking about) and everything in between. Someday I’ll get to hold the loneliest job in radio. Great advice Dan!
Larson
Have a vision for your station. Share that vision. Instead of saying “No” ask the person (be they from Sales or Promotions or Production or On-Air) how their proposal can fit your vision, be interesting to the audience and make money for the client &/or the station. Smile, listen and talk… in that order. Facilitate win-win-win situations. Have fun, try to get some sleep and make time every week for family and friends. Good luck.
Someone once gave me this advice when it came to being a P.D. and it’s served me well. Surround yourself with people that are as passionate about the product as you are, don’t micro-manage them but give them some direction then sit back and enjoy the ride!!