Every DJ Should Forward This To Their PD

Every DJ needs encouragement, but it’s more complex and layered than that. See if you agree with me.

There are on-air personalities across this great nation who are pouring out their hearts, making connections, and giving it their all to serve listeners. Many are consistently left wondering if they’re meeting expectations.

They simply don’t know if they’re okay, good, or even great at what they do. Many lack feedback, direction, and guardrails. Some have not had an aircheck in over a year. Without feedback even the most confident person can be left wondering if maybe they really just suck.

WHEN PLANTS ARE NURTURED BETTER

PDs wear many hats and are swept away to countless meetings. That’s not an excuse. Imagine hoping that a plant will grow with little to no attention. Like plants, DJs crave things that help make them thrive. It’s never too late to give your on-air team some much needed TLC.

You can start by asking your on-air team what they would like from you. That’s servant-leadership at its best! Since it’s likely to be different from person to person, find out what each team member prefers.

-a formal monthly aircheck
-a casual 30-minute weekly meeting
-a purposeful and encouraging text

IF YOU’RE TOO BUSY

If you’re simply too busy, there are a handful of talent coaches who are ready to serve you and your on-air team. They’ll provide feedback and encouragement that should strengthen your team’s confidence so that they can perform at a higher level.

HERE’S THE TAKEAWAY

PDs must find a way to prioritize people over processes. While immersing yourself into music logs might come more naturally, please be mindful that your on-air team’s confidence and growth should be as important as figuring out why two songs just laid down back-to-back with the same sound code. Find a talent coach who fits your culture and one who builds confidence with honestly and compassion.

p.s. This week come find me at CMB’s Momentum Conference as one of the talent coaches for the Aircheck Clinic. My time slot is Thursday, June 2nd from 9a-12p, and I’d love for you to swing by to say hello!

After spending 25+ years in radio, Todd launched a coaching and consulting business, Beyond615.com, on March 15, 2021. There he strives to help others build confidence so that they can connect on a deeper level. He also serves as the Contemporary Christian Format Editor at AllAccess.com. He and his family live in the (615) area code, aka the heart of the CCM industry