Radio is one of only a few mobile advertising mediums, and it can be an effective ad medium, as many consumers, such as drivers, give it undivided attention. Radio ads are generally cheaper than television ads, and both small and large businesses often invest in them. If you are considering a career as a radio advertising salesperson, you must have several specialized skills and a background in sales. Like other salespeople, you'll need an outgoing, friendly personality and knowledge of the radio industry.
Instructions
1. Prepare for your future career by working in sales or customer service positions while still in high school. You'll want to learn talk to a wide variety of people and customers during this time to see if you have natural sales ability.
2. Intern at a local radio station, such as your university radio station, while in college to learn all the ins and outs of the radio industry as well as build networking connections with station producers and managers.
3. Earn your bachelor's degree in advertising, business administration or communications. Take classes in a wide variety of subjects, including radio, television and film, marketing, public relations and management. If you already have professional sales experience, you may be able to land a radio advertising sales position without a formal education, though.
4. Consult with friends and family about your professional appearance. You'll want to exude a polished, neat appearance in job interviews and client visits. Invest in a quality suit and shoes.
5. Apply at local radio stations. Prepare for your interview by learning about the particular radio station's demographics, including both their listening audience and ad buying market. For example, a country and western radio station's advertisers may consist of local bars, retail stores and local contractors, while an easy listening radio station's advertisers may be composed of dentists and restaurants. Use this information to give examples of how you plan to gain new clients when hired.
6. Train with an experienced radio ad salesperson who has mastered the position. This type of person can teach you about sales calls and visits, as well as interact with clients.
7. Take continuing education sales courses, as well as classes about the radio industry. Many clients want someone who is very knowledgeable about the industry, including all the new technologies. You should know explain the differences between public radio and satellite radio, as well as the pros and cons of each of them.
Tags: radio station, radio industry, local radio, Prepare your, radio advertising