Week of September 8, 2008

Friday 9/12, 2008

It's never a good idea to allow a bad show to remain on the air because of the contractual agreement. Each day they are on the air costs you money, audience, & time. it's best to suck it up and move on. Morning shows can be up to 50% of a single radio stations total revenue. Make your hiring decisions carefully. It may be the most important decision you as a GM can make. (Ask Mel) Have a great weekend everyone.

Thursday 9/11, 2008

How long do you keep a new non-performing morning show? Here's a rule of thumb from day one.

Ok press, audience complaints, ok trends, bad revenues? - 1 full year. Bad press, audience complaints, bad trend ratings, but good revenues initially? - 2 books.

Bad press, audience complaints, bad trends, bad revenues, - 1 book If there is any additional positive sign, add one book. Example, if there is a good initial trend, and then a fall off after six months? 18 months total. You must give the show a chance, but a total failure must be dealt with right away. (ps, a total failure is your fault, not the talent. )

Wednesday 9/10, 2008

The rules for termination have not really changed over the years. Morning show contracts are created during the homneymoon period. Termination clauses are executed when things go bad. Make the deal going into the contract. Remember, you have to live with it going out. Assume the worst when creating a deal.

Tuesday 9/9, 2008

What if your Morning Show/PD resigned today? Who would replace him/her? Is there someone on staff? Always have a mental bench to draw from. Maintain a "programming network" of people who know people. (Joel Denver and the All Access "Jobs" section for an example.)