The following is from my weekly radio-info.com newsletter, News Talk Edge.  You can subscribe to the newsletter for free HERE

Boot Camp Wisdom: Money Isn’t Everything

Don Anthony’s Morning Show Boot Camp drew a serious and committed group of radio pros to New Orleans this past weekend.  One highlight was Saturday’s Careers session, featuring a panel of top agents, consultants and a senior radio group exec.  Here’s a sampling of their advice:

Don’t throw in the towel. Yes, times are tough, but that doesn’t mean talent should accept the first offer at renewal time.  Personalities who deliver for their stations are sometimes seeing modest increases.

Money isn’t everything.  A significant raise might be out of the question.  But a strong performer may be able to win more job security, contract guarantees or added resources for the show, such as his own producer, or the money for parody songs or a voice impressionist.

Protect your revenue streams.  A host should fight like the devil to protect her right to make money in other media – TV, Internet, newspapers, books, speeches, VO work, et cetera.

Keep airchecks tight.  One break for jocks, one segment for talk hosts.  Skip the fancy opening production.  Make sure you are the star of the submitted material.  Attach the aircheck as an MP3, not as a link.  Said one panelist: “Remember, Everybody wants to be spoon fed.”  Great tip from consultant Alan Burns: “If you want your demo to be heard, have someone else send it.”

Resumes and cover letters aren’t difference-makers – Unless you misspell the recipient’s name, or otherwise demonstrate carelessness.

Network, network, network.  By the time you see a job posted in the trades, it’s been filled.

Talk radio wants you! With the demise of local talk in many small markets, music radio has become the farm system for talk radio.

Enough Politics. Music personalities who hope to build a lasting career in talk radio should look beyond politics, tap into their unique personalities, and use their ability to create great conversation from topics that come from everyday life and relationships.

Considering getting an agent or manager?  Let’s talk.  770-551-2340