3 Easy Ways Every DJ Can Grow

In a world of more consolidation, regional voice tracking, and radio stations competing for CUME growth, here are 3 ways that every on-air talent can make themselves more valuable.

1. PERSONALITY ATTRACTS

Think of your real-life friendships. Shared experiences and values are what attract people to each other. When beginning a relationship, you look for things you have in common. The same happens when people tune-in and hear you talk up the intro of a song or when you stop down for a longer break. Are they hearing you just say the artist and title and talk up an :06 intro or are you making a touchpoint with them? Some of the most compelling breaks I’ve ever heard and have done myself were up short song intros.

If you’re not the “life of the party-extroverted-personality magnet” here’s something you can do. Take the very best parts of your personality and shine a spotlight on them. What are you known for most by friends and family? A great laugh. Extreme empathy. Fun-loving. Try accentuating your best traits…I didn’t say over-exaggerate or fake it…just be the best version of yourself. Because your full potential is in the area of your God-given, natural gifts.

2. RELATIONSHIP DEEPENS

People are busy, they listen passively, and they can’t possibly know you better if you don’t have a well-defined, unique persona. That’s about 20% of your full self, and it’s called a Unique Brand Diamond. Here’s how you can find yours.

Go to your closest 3 to 5 relationships and ask them to describe you in one word. You’ll probably get several words. Look for words that mean the same and then settle on 4 words. For example, here are my 4 words: passionate, fun, cynical, quirky. I try to interject those parts of my personality on the air to reinforce who I am to the listener. The better the listener knows and understands you, the deeper the relationship can go.

3. CONNECTION GROWS

Think about how you can be authentic within your show or radio station’s mission. People are longing for real relationships, and they can sniff out phony from a mile. When you’re able to crack open your chest and reveal a shortcoming or grow from failing, people will feel like they’re not alone. They’ll admire you for being vulnerable, and maybe the next time the song ends and you begin to talk they’ll want to hear what you have to say even more.

ATTRACT, DEEPEN, GROW

I’ve always believed that connections lead to conversations and great brands become habitual. That’s how you attract more CUME, deepen TSL, and grow occasions. Plus, if your radio station is listener-supported you want those deeper relationships built on trust.

I hope this has encouraged you. If you would like to talk, I would be honored to help build confidence in you, your team, and your brand. Together, we can grow the greatest message and the greatest songs Beyond the (615) and into your local community.

Todd is the Christian Format Editor at AllAccess.com as well as the Owner of a Consulting & Coaching service at beyond615.com. He helps build confidence where people feel unsure.