A: First of all congrats on being in one place for that long.  If you’ve done it right you have some equity in your market.  But I digress.

Things to know --

Looking for a new job should be treated like a part time job that that pays long term commission when you finally land the gig.  So budget for this endeavor accordingly.

If you’re answering job postings ---

That means the station is actively looking. Send the materials in the way that is prescribed in the add.  Make you A&R (audio and resume) as easy to digest as possible.

Resume - No more than one page.  Show what you’ve done.  Try if possible to find references (endorsements) from people this PD may know or want to talk to.

If an overt add also send your A&R via mail as well.  Getting the PDs attention any way you can is crucial.  Unfortunately blind box adds don’t leave you that option.

Audio - Best stuff to the front of the CD or audio file.  Most PDs won’t listen past the first set.  So if your best stuff is further down the audio segment don’t expect anyone to hear it if your mundane stuff is at the front end.

If you’re submitting blindly --- AKA a shot in the dark.

Sometimes this works if the station is unhappy with a talent and happens to bump into you as an option.  Other wise the true value of sending out tapes blindly is that a PD may like your stuff and keep you in mind for future moves or may pass your name along to a peer.  PDs love to be able to help out a comrade with a name or two of possible candidates.

These are all fine but 9 times out of 10 will not help you find a good job.

I have found that the best way to move up is to build a network of peers, PDs and Consultants.  An easy way to do this is to call up a PD or consultant(s) you like, want to work for or just simply revere and ask some questions like:

• What are and PDs like you looking for in an air talent?

• What are some of the traits that you would like to hear more of --- less of as well?

• What’s the best way to submit materials even if you currently do not need talent?

And finally the most important question...

1. •Would you mentor me for a short time so that I can learn some valuable insight that I’m not getting now?
   

You’ll be surprised how many PDs (if they aren’t too taxed already) will help you understand the mind set and skills needed to move up or simple improve your game!

Consultants are always looking for talent to plug into subscriber markets when necessary.  Of all the tactics mentioned you’ll probably have a better chance of getting on the short list of possibilities through a consultant.  Of course like any of these tact's it would hurt if you (a) don’t suck (b) are more than just proficient (c) already have great ratings and success in your current endeavor, and (d) are truly more special than most of the other talent out there.  Some or all of that is a tall order to fill... so get busy.

The most important thing to remember about any of the prescribed above is to do it while you are not looking for a job.  Making contacts is a part time gig that is for your future and not a “I need a job now” function.

If you need more specifics just e-mail me again for added rapport.

sd

sean@seandemery.com