For many sports broadcasters, the new year brings an optimistic career outlook and hope for new opportunities.
If you will be searching for a new sportscasting job in 2016, know that the landscape is changing.
Here are eight things to expect in the 2016 sportscasting job market:
1. You will find sportscasting opportunities on the Internet
Pay attention to more than just job boards. Pay attention to industry news.
If someone gets fired or otherwise moves on, there’s an opening. If a new program director takes over at the local sports station, he’s going to hire some of his own talent. Pay attention.
2. You will browse opportunities using your smartphone
More and more people are browsing the Internet using smartphones instead of computers and even tablets.
3. You will apply via a company website
It is becoming annoyingly common for employers to request that job seekers apply via the company website. I say annoyingly because the process is impersonal and can be clunky — often leaving applicants wondering if their demo and resume even made it through to the employer.
Apply online when instructed to, but also apply directly to the likely decision maker.
4. You’ll use social media to research employers
You already know that employers use social media to research candidates, but you should do the same to research employers.
LinkedIn and Facebook can be helpful in learning what the environment is truly like at a radio or TV station or with a specific team.
5. You’ll be hired by an employer who you have met
Sports broadcasting employers prefer to hire people they know or who come recommended to them.
Email and social media have made it easier for sports broadcasters to connect with employers for whom they might like to work. Industry conferences and job fairs are also fabulous places to start relationships.
If you are a play-by-play broadcaster, don’t just go out of your way to meet the voice of the other team. Find a way to say hi to the GM as well. He might be able to hire you one day.
6. Video will be important for your resume and interview
It is becoming more common for TV and radio employers to request that, along with your demo and resume, you submit a video introducing yourself. Even if they don’t ask, submit one anyway. It’s unique and can add personality to your application.
Once you get the interview, there’s a good chance it will take place via Skype or FaceTime. Be sure you have a decent camera and a quiet location. Don’t forget your attire — if you would not wear it to an in person interview, don’t wear it for a video interview.
7. Broadcasting skill will matter less
You will always have to be good on the air to get a sports broadcasting job. However, being great with media relations, sales, multimedia, social media and blogging can offset less ability on the mike.
[Tweet “Develop and pitch your non-broadcasting skills to increase sportscasting opportunities.”]8. You will be able to write your position description
This is directly related to No. 7. With radio and TV sportscasting jobs now requiring much more than just on-air work, consider suggesting to an employer an amended position description that features your strengths.
If the play-by-play gig you desperately want includes media relations but you don’t have any, then trumpet how your sales and multimedia experience will benefit the employer.
