Broadcasting.
Getting that First Foot in the Door and Keeping It There!

As a tenured television producer, writer, and former anchor, I've been fortunate enough to be working in "the biz" for over 20 years now. In such an ever changing business, some may say that luck is the main reason why. But, luck really plays no part in it. What I've accomplished has been done deliberately.through hard work and research. And those techniques may work for you!

Never before has the climate been so fierce. Never before has so much expected, and never before has it been so fun! In the broadcast business, it's do or die.everyday. The adrenalin rush of getting that story completed ten seconds before your tape airs on live television, or finishing up a feed tape 3 seconds before the satellite window closes is what you live for! And to get your first job, the first 3 things that you do could determine whether you succeed or fail.

First, develop a plan. Do you need additional schooling to compete for this job? What does the job pay? Will you have to relocate? Can you transition into this job first by working part-time?

This may include interviewing a few people with the job that you want. This will be a quick "reality check". Are you up for the challenge? If so, then proceed.

Next, networking is essential. After you prepare yourself for the task with some type of schooling or research, the earlier that you start making key contacts, the faster you will become employed. Forget the high tech gadgets used to email and page contacts. You need to go back to the basics to get ahead. Meeting face-to-face with potential employers in a social or professional setting may get you where you want to be. Are there internships available? An internship is one of the most effective ways that I've found in introducing a potential employee into an active workforce. You are on a 10-12 week daily interview, meeting hundreds of people who you normally wouldn't have access to. It's a kindler, gentler way to get into the job market. The drawback is that many of these internships are not paid, but the positive is that you will get a key station on your resume and meet valuable contacts during your internship.

Lastly, the follow-up is essential. Many students/ graduates go into the game with lots of enthusiasm for the first few weeks. It's those students who maintain that excitement and drive and who will wind up getting those first jobs. Make a list. Call and write potential employers. Ask them out for coffee and/or a tour at their station. Remember. the more creative.the better. In the end, you want them to remember you so that you will be the first on their minds when the j-o-b comes open.

Good luck!

Editorial provided by Cyndi Todd, Atlanta Broadcast Institute, Director of Placement Services & award winning Television Producer.