How to Become a Teleprompter Operator

A teleprompter is a computerized device that cues actors to their lines and prompts anchors to their scripts. A teleprompter operator needs to be organized, punctual and a good writer. A teleprompter operator is an entry level position, but it's a good way to get your foot in the door in the television industry.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Practice your typing skills. A good teleprompter operator types quickly and proofreads his scripts to minimize errors.

2. Familiarize yourself with the television industry's lingo. Know all of the names for the industry positions, equipment, commands, shorthand and writing styles.

3. Get a tour of a local television station and ask many questions. It's essential to understand every individual's responsibilities to the production.

4. Ask the teleprompter operator to show you how to enter data into the computer and how to scroll through a script. A good teleprompter operator rolls the script at the pace the on-air talent reads her lines.

5. Collect business cards from the television professionals you meet. The television industry is all about who you know.

6. Thank the station for their time. Hand the producer or director a resume and let him know that you hope he considers your candidacy for future openings.

7. Research employment opportunities locally or on the Internet at websites like TVJobs (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure that the arrow on the teleprompter screen is in line with the current line that your talent is reading when you're practicing. Never get ahead or fall behind.

Resources

• TVJobs, a broadcast employment service.

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