Back in my day…that’s crap.

This is part of an article I wrote a few years ago for FMQB.  I recently read something on facebook that made me think of this paragraph:

We can’t continue to look at building radio “stars” the same way we once did. Traditionally, you interned, got a part time job in promotions or on the weekends, and then just waited for your big break. With budgets being scaled back and the traditional opportunities lessened, we as managers need to create and apply energy towards new ideas and outlets for the next generation.  Create viral stars, intern bloggers, characters on shows, role players, etc.  If you find an intern or a promotions person who has that special something, but they aren’t ready to be on the air, teach them how to create airchecks in the production room or how to create viral content for the station.  You’d be amazed by the creative imaging you get if you ask a rookie radio employee to write a few sweepers for the first time. Give them the tools and the opportunities to become stars.  Who knows, if they do it right, you just created the replacement for the jock that is leaving. In some cases, they might help your decision on keeping or letting go someone who is not doing all the things you need them to do (blogging, social networking, viral videos, etc.).  For those who think in sports analogies, some guy named Steve Young used to back up Joe Montana.

Perhaps this might help you make a difficult decision with a stubborn employee who doesn’t want to evolve or give an opportunity to someone who is hungry?

chasemradio

Radio Imagineer and host. Texan, Blogger, Author, Father of 2 awesome kids, husband to Christal and driver of a 1965 Chevy truck. Author of Pull The Trigger and #Tryharder.

Comments 1

Leave a Reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.