First Jobs: Commonly Asked Questions

BiB Contributor | Anonymous News Director

I’ve literally screened hundreds of applicants and prospective applicants for jobs over the years. Here’s a list of some of the questions I’m most frequently asked:

Q: What would you like to see on my tape?
A: I want to see a quick montage, followed by an example of several types of stories: 1) hard news, 2) enterprise, 3) investigative (if you have it), and 4) feature.

Q: Should I call a News Director if the ad says “no calls, please?”
A: I can only speak from my perspective. No. Let your work speak for itself and I will call you.

Q: Is it wise to show up without an appointment?
A: Absolutely not. Please don’t try the trick of saying you are just in the neighborhood and would like to meet with me for 10 minutes.

Q: If I want to become a reporter, should I take a job starting off as a producer?
A: It depends on you. If you are going to be bugging the News Director about an on-air position every two weeks, don’t bother. If you see the opportunity as a stepping stone, work in earnest to become as good as you can at the job. We can talk about transferring skills to an on-air position later. We will never promote someone who doesn’t first master the skill for which he or she is hired.

Q: In what market size should I start?
A: Don’t worry about market size. I’ve seen some 150+ markets with great reporters. I’ve seen 30+ markets with horrible reporters and producers. It depends on the station and how well you fit into the culture of a station.

Q: I’ve been told I wasn’t the best fit for the job. Should I be concerned?
A: No. Best fit means best fit. It rarely has anything to do with your skills, if the interviewer is being honest. If he or she isn’t being honest with you, you don’t want to work for him or her, anyway.

Q: I’ve heard horrible things about the station that just offered me the job. I’ve also heard horror stories about the News Director/GM. Should I take it?
A: Try to formulate your own opinions. I’ve worked well with some bosses no one liked. I’ve also failed to mix well with others everyone seemed to like. It depends on what type of “coaching” you respond to and what type of style works for you. The best managers know how to adjust their styles to get the best out each individual; however, those types are few and far between. Go with your instincts. As far as the station element is concerned, check your information carefully. Don’t be afraid to ask potential bosses blunt questions. The good ones will also allow you to ask employees the same questions. They’re searching for a good fit for their organization; so are you.

Q: I know the station across the street pays more than I’m being offered. Should I hold out for more?
A: Are you being offered a job across the street? If money is the most important thing to you, you’re probably in the wrong business.

Q: What should I put on a producer reel?
A: Include an entire newscast. Yes, I do watch the entire thing. Creativity, news judgment, flow, writing, tease writing, tosses, showcasing, and break-out elements are all carefully scrutinized. If you’re applying for your first job, I’d still like to see a newscast you either produced in school or during an internship. If you demonstrate a clear knowledge of all the elements I listed, you’ll be hired in a heartbeat. Most beginners don’t have all those skills down pat. In that case, I may give you a producer’s test or watch and critique your work with you. If you become defensive or upset during the process, I will not hire you.

Q: Will you hire a beginner over an experienced person?
A: Absolutely, if he or she is the right fit for the job. Keep in mind attitude is everything. Ask questions. Show me your passion. I care more about that than someone who likes to talk about how good he or she thinks he or she is.

Q: How long should I stay in my first job?
A: As long as you want and can keep a good attitude. If you feel your attitude slipping, move on. You aren’t doing yourself or anyone at the station any good.

Q: Should I become a reporter or anchor first?
A: My personal opinion is anchors should first be good reporters. If you ask a dozen news directors that question, you’ll get two definitive answers and 10 shades of gray.

Q: I’ve been slugging it out at my shop and I’ve been passed over for several promotions. Yet, most people I see seem to get promoted based on seniority. Should I approach the boss?
A: You should always express your interest. But don’t expect to be promoted on seniority, regardless of what you think you see happening around you. If your argument to the boss for a promotion is based on something like “It’s always been done that way,” you’re basing your argument on entitlement. If you don’t get that anchor job you’ve been wanting, and you want it badly, go work somewhere you can get the opportunity.