What does a game show host do?
Game show hosts introduce game shows, the contestants, the objectives of the games, and prizes. They guide the show from beginning to end and manage the play of the game. They provide support and feedback to contestants and explain the rules and procedures.
They also interview contestants before, during, and after the show and discuss the show with the studio audience. Game show hosts often contribute to the content to improve the content and keep the attention of the audience.
What kind of training does a game show host need?
Game show hosts typically need at least a high school diploma and related television broadcasting experience. Most game show hosts have solid backgrounds in journalism, acting, broadcasting, or other related field. Many have complete postsecondary education from a college, university, or professional acting school. Many aspiring game show hosts complete internships or volunteer experiences at local television stations to gain practical experience in the field. Some game show hosts started out hosting and producing shows through public access television. Others have hosted special events through television and radio stations. Game show hosts must keep their skills up to date and stay abreast with advancements in the television broadcasting field. They often complete additional training throughout their careers.
What are the prospects for a career as a game show host?
Employment of game show hosts is expected to decline moderately, decreasing 6% from 2008 to 2018 (1). Technological advances and increase interest in reality television will contribute to the employment decline.
Job prospects are expected to be fair with strong competition. Individuals with outgoing personalities and extensive experience will have the best job opportunities. Some job openings will stem from the need to replace game show hosts that retire, transfer, or leave the field for other reasons.
How much do game show hosts make?
As of January 2010, the average annual salary for game show hosts is $34,000; average annual game show host salaries vary greatly on location, employer, education, experience, and benefits (2).
A career as a game show host is a great choice for people with a strong interest in television broadcasting and the desire to host a show that gets contestants involved and captures the attention of the audience. Game show hosts must have a solid understanding of the policies and procedures of television broadcasting. They must be outgoing, charismatic, self-motivation, and driven to succeed. Game show hosts must be comfortable on camera in front of a live audience and they must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills. They must have a pleasant voice and appearance and be able to relate to contestants and viewers.
