What does an announcer do?
Radio and television announcers announce station program information including program schedules, public service information, and station breaks for commercials. They also introduce and end programs, songs, and shows. The read scripts or make commentaries on the air when they announce news, weather, time, sports, and commercials. They also interview guests and moderate discussions. Some give commentaries to the audience during many different events (sports games, parades, festivals, etc.). Announcers often complete research and writing tasks for written scripts. They also regularly make promotional appearances and participate in community events such as fundraisers or store openings.
Announcers who work for small stations may be involved in operating the control board, producing advertisements, keeping a record of daily programming, selling commercial time, and monitoring the transmitter. They may also read the news and sports scores.
What kind of training does an announcer need?
Announcers should complete formal training in broadcasting from a technical school, college, or private broadcasting school to be competitive in the field. These training programs prepare students to work with new technologies. Many announcers have a bachelor degree in broadcasting, communications, or journalism. Announcers must typically complete long-term on the job training and many complete internships that provide hands-on experience. Announcers typically begin as an assistant, reporter, or researcher and gradually move into announcing positions.
What are the prospects for a career as announcer?
Employment of announcers is expected to decline moderately, decreasing 7% from 2006 to 2016 (1). The consolidation of radio and television stations, technological advances, and the growth of alternative media sources will drive the decline in employment.
Job prospects are expected to be fair with keen competition because there are more applicants than available jobs. Announcers with extensive work experience and those who have completed internships will have the best prospects. Some job openings will occur from the need to replace announcers who transfer to other occupations or leave the field for other reasons.
How much do announcers make?
As of September 2009, the national average annual salary for announcers is $25,000. The average salary varies greatly depending on the company, industry, location, year’s experience, and benefits (2).
A career as an announcer is a great choice for people interested in announcing events, news, and other information for various media. Announcers must have a pleasant and well-controlled voice, great pronunciation, good grammar, and great timing. Announcers working for television stations must have a pleasing and neat appearance. Strong writing skills are essential because announcers write their own material. They must able to able to work under stressful situations and be able to successfully improvise on the spot.
