Radio Announcer Job Description

If a radio announcer does a good job, it may seem as if he or she is just talking to you on the radio. But a lot of preparation goes into that seemingly effortless banter. A job description for a radio announcer includes a lot of work behind the scenes.

Types

There are many different types of radio announcer jobs available. An announcer might deliver news updates; be a DJ on a top 40s, rock or urban station; a classical music announcer or the host of a talk radio show.

Preparation

Knowledge of the radio station's format, types of music or topics in a talk show can involve lots of prep time. Before going on the air, a news announcer has to research and write a newscast; a talk show host must become familiar with the hot topics and decide which guests should be on the show; and a DJ must research songs and artists.

Air Time

On the air, announcers generally follow the format of their station. For example, a DJ will introduce songs and artists, take calls from listeners and run contests for concert tickets or other prizes. News announcers will read the stories of the day, interspersed with interviews or reports from the scene.

"Running The Board"

In many cases, radio announcers do what's called "running the board." They turn the correct microphone on and off, play the music and the commercials and take calls. In some cases, others at the station decide what songs a DJ will play. There also will be a list of commercials that need to run at certain times. In some larger stations and talk shows, a producer or another person runs the board, not the announcer.

Fun Facts

Depending on the size of the station, radio announcers also may write, read and produce some of the commercials. They might also broadcast special shows from a local fair, nightclub or place other than the station.

Applying

There is generally a lot of competition for radio announcer jobs. In many cases, stations look for a person with a degree or who has gone to a broadcasting school. Besides a resume, applicants will be asked to provide samples of their work. Sometimes applicants will have to take a test--for example, news announcers would take one in current events.

References

• Columbia School of Broadcasting
• Hofstra University Training Course
• Journalism Jobs