Announcers and broadcasters speak out to us over the radio and television airwaves, informing us of current events in our own communities and around the world. They cover sports, weather, news and community affairs. They can work for privately- owned stations or for public networks such as the CBC.
As an announcer or broadcaster, you may find yourself doing your own research and scriptwriting, even though you aren't a reporter. You gather background information from wire services, data banks, libraries and clipping services. You then prepare a script or rough notes from which you deliver your report.
You work closely with other members of the station's team. In smaller stations, you may also take on the responsibility for sales, administration or marketing.
Be prepared for stress. Deadlines are rigorous, and getting reports ready on time means a constant race against the clock. The broadcast itself can also be demanding. You are pressed to perform well, every time. This means looking after your voice and, in the case of television, your appearance. Both are essential tools of the trade.
As an announcer or broadcaster, you become a local "personality" and make personal appearances at community events. Although you may enjoy this attention, you may have to sacrifice some personal privacy. If you take this in stride, you will enjoy the work. The very nature of the job brings you into contact with all sorts of interesting people.
As an announcer or broadcaster, you are generally paid a salary; wage rates and benefits are all open for negotiation with your employer.
You should be outgoing, enthusiastic, and people-oriented. You also need good communication skills as well as the ability to project a friendly, easy-going image.
Broadcasting is a serious profession. You need the self-discipline to manage your time effectively. You also must have the analytical skills to select quickly newsworthy information from mountains of raw material.
As an announcer or broadcaster you are partly a performer. To deliver the message, you must capture an audience's attention. If you can convey mood and meaning through phrasing, improvised comments or body language, you are a "natural" for this kind of work. You also need the presence of mind to react quickly and effectively when things go wrong. To get ahead, you must be willing to learn more about your work, to take the initiative and to be creative.