The producer role defined

This may seem like an obvious question but have you ever actually researched the official job spec of a producer? While your role in each broadcasting team might be slightly different it's worth your while examining the official description is so you're under no illusions. Have a look at this excellent break-down from Prospects.ac.uk. It’s very detailed but have a look over it, hopefully it's not too frightening. Remember that passion and enthusiasm are the most important attributes of a producer and cannot be taught.

Radio producers are responsible for the audio content of broadcasts via radio, the internet and other mobile platforms. They are involved in the entire process, from generating ideas to managing the audience response after a programme. Producers manage and work with broadcasting assistants, presenters and DJs, engineers, and IT staff. They have to make sure that shows run as planned and that they are tailored to key audience demographics. They may also be responsible for the business and commercial management of a programme. Producers can work in the publicly funded, commercial or voluntary sectors of broadcasting.



Responsibilities:
Specific responsibilities vary depending on the programme and station and producers may sometimes also take on the roles of presenters or reporters.In general, tasks can include:



‌· Generating and researching ideas for programmes and pitching for commissions;
‌· Developing content, writing material for scripts, bulletins and links;
‌· Sourcing potential contributors and interviewees;
‌· Selecting music appropriate to the programme, the audience and the station;
‌· Producing pre-production briefings for presenters, reporters, technical staff and other contributors;
‌· Managing the logistics of getting people, resources and equipment together to the right place at the right time;
‌· Undertaking editing, interviewing and reporting duties as necessary;
‌· Presenting programmes or managing presenters for both pre-recorded and recorded output;
‌· Checking that copyrights are cleared and understanding media law;
‌· Converting text, graphics, video and audio files into other formats;
‌· Contributing to, and making use of, an archive of audio resources which can be re-used;
‌· Responding to audience feedback, referring on to other departments as necessary;
‌· Producing and making use of user-generated content;
‌· Using technology, such as Cool Edit Pro, Pro Tools and Adobe Audition, for editing and production purposes;
‌· Ensuring that health and safety standards and trade union requirements are met.

Conditions vary widely depending on whether you are on a staff contract with the BBC, which offers well-defined and protected conditions, or part of a small community radio team.
Producers are generally based in offices or recording studios but also work on live events and outside broadcasts. Most radio producers work as part of a small team, although some have responsibility for much larger programme units. As the media becomes increasingly inter-disciplinary, radio producers may also be involved in generating content for online and other platforms.

Radio is less London-centric than other media and posts are available throughout the UK with local BBC, commercial, community and voluntary stations. National radio stations are usually broadcast from major cities such as Manchester and London. Across the media, organisations are addressing diversity issues in an attempt to increase the proportion of under-represented groups in the workforce. The advent of digital radio and expansion of community radio is increasing representation as ethnic minority groups set up specific stations.

Working to tight deadlines and on live programmes can be stressful but many people find compensation in the 'buzz' of a working environment where people are excited about what they do. Limited financial resources, particularly in non-commercial radio stations, may give rise to creative and production challenges.


What to expect:

Travel during the working day and absence from home overnight may be required when working on location.Skills Educational qualifications are not the only criteria for success - work experience and evidence of practical and technical skills for radio are valued much more highly. To be successful you will need to demonstrate:


‌· Excellent written and oral communication skills;
‌· An ability to work as a part of a team and also independently;
‌· Good organisational skills and an ability to cope under pressure;
‌· An awareness of current affairs and good general knowledge;
‌· A real interest in, and curiosity about, all sorts of people;
‌· A lively mind, able to make connections between different ideas and subjects;
‌· The ability to get to grips with new subject matter quickly;
‌· A willingness to embrace new technology and learn technical skills;
‌· Self-confidence, persistence and determination to overcome rejection and break into this competitive industry.



The most important quality is a passion for radio, so:



‌· Be clear about why you want to work in broadcast rather than print or television;
‌· Take an interest in the changing face of the radio industry, key developments and their impact on radio output;
‌· Listen to a range of radio programmes in your area of interest;
‌· Email producers with comments on their programmes;
‌· Take and make opportunities to meet people working in radio - most love talking about programmes they have made.



As technology becomes ever more accessible, you may also be expected to demonstrate your interest in radio via a portfolio of 'user-generated content' such as podcasts, blogs and on sites such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.