So What Does a Radio DJ Really Do Anyway?



If you're wondering what a radio dj does on a day to day basis, it's quite easy to explain. Radio personalities for the most part, talk in between songs and provide information, and entertainment. Some radio DJs are notorious for their personalities. If you're looking to play all of your favorite music however, that's probably not going to happen. Usually a radio station's program director or music directors generate the playlist. Today's radio DJs do not typically pick the music to play on radio stations.

Finding Your First Radio Job

Finding work as a radio DJ in a "big" radio market can be hit-or-miss. Most radio dj's start out in smaller cities to get their "big break," into this lucrative business. If you have no radio experience it may help you get into the business if you're a tech-savvy person, or if you have a great voice, and/or are a people person. It also helps if you are an excellent writer and you have the ability to work under minimal supervision.

You Have to Really Want it

In order to become a radio personality in today's business, it requires your willingness to work very unusual hours during the day, for really low pay. Some radio jobs only pay minimum wage for part time work. That's because there are so many people who would work just for the fun of it. If you're lucky enough to get hired by a radio station, expect to spend lots of your time in the studio, not only being on the air, but cutting commercials and broadcasting live from events. Almost all time slots are 5-6 hours in length, although specialty shows can only be 2 or 3 hours. Outside of the radio station personalities are often asked to dedicate a few hours of volunteer service to the station every month. The average weekly time on the job for a radio personality was 50 hours in 2007 according to a nationwide survey.

How Do You Find Available Radio Jobs?

The best way to find radio jobs is to search for sites that specialize in radio job postings. You can even look for jobs on the Web site of your local radio station.

Remember, It's a Tough Business

Only a very small percentage of nationally recognized radio talents make the "big bucks." The positions that usually pay the most are morning show hosts and program directors. They have the top wages associated with this type of entertainment industry.

So, if you've always dreamed of changing careers and landing the fun job of being a radio dj or personality, be persistent in your search for work. It is out there, you just have to know, or meet the right person to give you that chance.