How to Become A Radio Presenter In South Africa

Radio presenters host radio programs such as talkback shows, music programs, news bulletins or programs relating to specific content or communities. They research and prepare for their spot/program, talk to their listeners, play entertainment items, interview guests and celebrities and provide public information.

What do you call a radio announcer?

Radio announcers are often known as disc jockeys (DJs). While some read from scripts, others completely ad-lib.

What are the duties of a radio presenter?

Radio presenters host radio programs such as talkback shows, music programs, news bulletins or programs relating to specific content or communities. They research and prepare for their spot/program, talk to their listeners, play entertainment items, interview guests and celebrities and provide public information.

Who is a good presenter?

A good presenter is focused on providing value to the audience and addressing the audience from their perspective, Weisman says. You shouldn’t just highlight your expertise or knowledge; offer examples or anecdotes to connect with the audience.

How to Become A Radio Presenter In South Africa

Qualifications

You don’t need a degree to become a broadcast presenter as employers tend to look more for experience and practical skills.

However, some degree, HND and foundation degree subjects may be useful and could provide you with relevant knowledge that can be used in the job. These include:

broadcast, radio, television or media production

drama or performing arts

journalism

media or communications studies.

Certain courses have been assessed by the radio and television industries and are approved by Screens kills, the industry skills body. Details of courses can be found at Screens kills – Education & training.

A degree relevant to the area that you wish to work in, such as politics or economics, may also be helpful.

Skills

You’ll need to have:

excellent communication and presentation skills

performance skills and a clear voice

the ability to generate original ideas

a personable and confident manner

a broad range of interests, including current affairs

good research and interviewing skills

the confidence and the ability to sell yourself

an awareness of media law

the ability to take initiative and make quick decisions under pressure

teamworking skills

creativity and problem-solving skills.

Professional development

You’ll usually be expected to have the necessary skills before starting the job. These can be acquired by working in a supporting role on a broadcasting team, as a broadcast assistant, for example, or through independently taken courses.

Independent training is offered through organisations such as:

Pukka Presenting

Radio Presenter Training

On-the-job training will generally be given for use of any specific technical equipment, such as microphones or recording equipment, or to drive the desk in radio. However, since most presenters produce their own demo tapes, a certain level of technical knowledge is expected.

Organisations that run various useful training programmes and placements include:

BECTU

Broadcast Journalism Training Council (BJTC)

Radiocentre

BECTU has a student register aimed at those looking towards a career in media and entertainment (broadcasting, film, theatre, live events). BECTU supports this initiative with regular e-newsletters on industry issues and holds an annual Freelancers Fair.

Employers

It’s likely you’ll have to start in an entry-level position such as a runner, broadcast assistant or programme researcher while you gain the necessary skills and experience.

Broadcasting is a highly competitive area and you’ll need to have enthusiasm, persistence and a proactive approach to hunting for jobs and work experience. Many presenters have agents who help to secure work for them.

Broadly speaking, the broadcasting industry can currently be divided into television and radio and then sub-divided into national, regional and local stations. However, its structure is constantly changing and new channels are continually launching. Potential employers include:

the BBC (for both television and radio, nationally and locally)

independent television companies such as ITV, Channel 4, Channel 5, plus various cable, satellite and digital channels

national independent radio companies and local and regional independent radio stations

independent production companies, for both radio and television, which make programmes for the BBC and independent stations, normally on a commissioned basis

internet radio stations.

Career prospects

Broadcast presenting is an unpredictable profession and career development may be more about achieving your personal ambitions than following a set progression route.

Many presenters begin in local radio or in minor roles on television. Good starting points are also found through opportunities in hospital, community and university radio stations. Others start out in print journalism, taking radio opportunities and then television opportunities, as and when they occur.

It’s likely you’ll aim to develop your career by moving to more prestigious programmes, more mainstream time slots or by being the support presenter to the lead role. Eventually making a move to national or international radio or television.

Having a proactive agent will help, as will utilizing any practical support – such as what Screens kills offers – which will guide you in furthering your career through training and professional development.

What qualifications do I need to be a radio presenter In South Africa?

There are no specific qualifications to become a radio presenter. You can study anything and still end up in radio, but it helps if you go into the right area. Courses related to acting or voice acting, speaking, or personality development will look pretty good on your CV when applying for a presenter job.

How much do radio presenters earn in South Africa?

R284,489 (ZAR)/yr.

Where can I study to be a radio presenter in South Africa?

WHERE CAN I STUDY?

INTEC College. Radio Broadcasting. www.intec.edu.za.

Damelin. Damelin TV and Radio Presenting Certificate.

College SA. Radio and Sound Engineering Courses.

Radio Academy. Radio Broadcasting.

Boston Media House College. Media Courses and Diplomas.

DJ Mix Club. Various Courses.

Retro Music. Various Courses.

Is radio a good career In South Africa?

For those seriously interested in taking up radio broadcasting as a career, radio broadcasting schools are a good stepping stone. However, you should also remember that this is a kind of job that requires a bit of personal flair to outshine others in the competitive market of today.

How many hours do radio presenters work In South Africa?

Working Conditions

Radio presenters usually only present for between 2 and 3 hours a day, but the hours depend on the popularity and purpose of the show and can include the middle of the night.

How much do news reporters earn in SA?

An early career News Reporter with 1-4 years of experience earns an average total compensation (includes tips, bonus, and overtime pay) of R168,000 based on 10 salaries. A mid-career News Reporter with 5-9 years of experience earns an average total compensation of R320,000 based on 5 salaries.

Is it hard to become a TV presenter In South Africa?

It can be difficult becoming a TV presenter right away, so look for jobs related to television production. Look for positions like camera operator, writer, editor, or production assistant so you can work on set and meet other people.

What are the qualities of a good TV presenter In South Africa?

Here are 6 qualities common amongst successful presenters:

1) They own and organize the time‍

2) They’re aware of their body language.

3) They engage in active listening‍

4) They know when to stop talking.

5) They don’t use tons of fillers.

6) They bring a positive energy to the room.

What makes a bad presenter In South Africa?

Most bad presenters are either unprepared or unaware of their habits. Or, they’re aware of their shortcomings but don’t know how to develop better presentation skills.