There is a fallacy that the job of a radio disc jockey is glamorous. They don't have any regular schedule and work according to their program schedule. They sometimes also have to work on the weekends. They need to select the music and play the requests of the listeners. Production activities also fall under their expertise. Production is inclusive of a variety of things like recording commercials, promos, etc. They also write scripts for radio shows, but this is not a requirement. They also conduct live shows wherein they interact with the listeners via the telephone.
While in school, taking lessons in speech, drama, and English is a good option. Record your voice and get your teachers of speech and drama to analyze it. Speak to a guidance counselor and take down a list of colleges and universities that specialize in broadcasting. However, it is not always necessary for a radio jockey to own a degree, but it would be a chief benefit when you go for a job.
One should have a pleasing voice and brilliant vocabulary to be a Radio DJ. Introducing music, carrying out interviews, recording commercials, and also reading the weather forecast on air requires perfect speaking skills. Other skills include time management and developing a personal connection with the audience.
While studying in high school, working at a part time job as a mobile disc jockey will take you far. You can observe the mobile disc jockeys at parties and learn about the professional aspect of the work. Take a note about the kinds of equipment you'd require. If you play satisfactory, then you'll be able to make it to formal parties. Such experience is invaluable. Work at your college radio station as it will provide an insight in the real world of radio, its equipment, working the system, problems, etc. You may have to work at unusual hours for college radio. Make a copy of the show and build a portfolio.
Having an internship before working at a real job is very important. Do your internship when you're still in college. This internship might also become your permanent job. The basic job initially will be office work. You will not be speaking directly on the microphone or programming a show. But this is also a much needed experience. Seek help from the broadcasting advisor of your college for entry level radio jobs. A job at the local community radio station can also be considered after your graduation. You will basically start off as a new employee learning the tricks of the trade. Nevertheless, you'll have a better opportunity to start off as a Radio DJ. The requirement of the market today is on air experience.
Becoming a radio DJ is not an easy task nowadays. There are a lot of stations that are using group shows to the full time slots and cutting the jobs. A few stations that are employing radio DJs. This is a great opportunity to get into the market. There are a lot of Disc jockeys who end up in a group show, or writing, or doing public relations. Mornings, afternoons, and late nights are very popular time slots for a radio disc jockey. The populace listens to the radio when they're driving or entertaining, or sometimes at home.
Radio DJs do not earn typically well except if they're employed by the best and premier organization. A disc jockey has to work really hard for a meager amount. They have unusual hours of work and sometimes also end up working on weekends. There are some radio disc jockeys who work because they simply adore their job. They usually get paid $12,000 to $40,000+ annually, with varying benefits. And the salary also depends upon the organization and your experience.
You have to begin at the bottom of the ladder in the radio industry, and many just stay at the same place. Remuneration for radio DJs is very meager and the desire to be at the top makes this industry notorious. For a disc jockey, the job means instability which makes this job a lot more insecure.
