How to Host a College Radio Show
Congratulations! You attended the general meeting, passed the DJing test, and you've gotten yourself a slot for your own college radio show. However, you don't want to host just any college radio show. You want to host the best show. There are just a few things you should know and do before you dive right in and broadcast music and laughter to the world.
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Instructions
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Listen to popular syndicated radio shows, and make note of what the pros do. Howard Stern, Ryan Seacrest and, thanks to satellite radio technology, even Bret Michaels from Poison manage to draw in millions of listeners with the power of humor and good DJing skills. Learn from the best.
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Get comfortable with the soundboard and microphone. No one wants to hear you make mistakes, so you should take time to actually learn to use the equipment in the radio studio before you go on the air. There is no greater experience than hands-on experience.
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Choose a genre for your radio show, and stick to it. Being consistent not only makes you more professional, but will allow you to establish a fan base. You can choose to play music only, talk about current events in a witty and funny way, interview people, or mix music and chatter. It's your show.
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Play more upbeat music. You are hosting a radio show, not a funeral. It's OK to play the occasional depressing song every now and then, but people tend to turn on the radio for background noise or to relax and take their mind off of things.
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Learn to project your voice. You may have a microphone, but no one is going to understand what you say if you speak too quietly, or too fast. If you speak too slow, people will get bored. If you shout, you are going to sound garbled. Record yourself when you are on the air, and listen to the recording to figure out what works best.
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Incorporate some fun games or jokes. Interview interesting people or even people playing funny characters, in person or on the air. Encourage listeners to call in and take part in contests. College students love any distraction from studying for finals.
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Form business relationships with popular college hangouts. Get college students' favorite restaurants on or near campus to sponsor your show, if you can. You can form great partnerships this way and offer prizes for your contests as a result.
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Tips & Warnings
If you mess up on the air, don't dwell on it. Just continue as normal. Whatever you do, don't allow there to be silence or "dead air." If you can't find a CD, play another.
Never curse on the air. You could get the radio station in trouble, and they could get fined. Consult with your general manager as to which words should not be said.
If a caller curses on the air, hang up immediately and apologize on their behalf.
