10 Questions with ... DJ Derek Clark

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

• 1994-2000, 2005-2012 - Clark Broadcasting/Clear Channel/VA - On-Air/Board Op
• 2000-2006 - NBC 29 WVIR/VA - Technical News Director
• 2006-Present - Vortex Multi-Media Plus/VA based - Owner/Mobile DJ
• 2012-2014 - Verstandig Broadcasting/VA & PA - Drive Time Rock Jock
• 2014-2015 - Hayden Hamilton Media/VA - Radio Consultant
• 2015-Present - Gray Television/VA - Technical Media Producer

1) What do you do to maintain a positive mental attitude and stay motivated?

Radio will never die. That's what I believe and what I tell myself when things don't look so good in the market. Radio is due for a huge comeback and I'll be there when it does.

2) Do you plan on sticking with radio?

Absolutely. At least in some capacity. Whether it be full or part-time. Even when I get so old that I can no longer speak, I can hopefully still run a board! Ha ha! I love radio that much.

3) What's the best way to get your foot in the door?

If you can afford to do so, accept any job offered ... part-time, temporary or internship. For me, it turned into long-term, full time work!

4) What has been your best resource for finding out about job openings?

Honestly, it's been AllAccess.com. The next best thing would be word of mouth.

5) What's the most unbelievable on-air bit you were allowed to do?

"Five words you can't say on the radio!" My boss had reservations about it, but trusted me enough to let the bit air. It was heavily edited, but it was a hit!

6) With consolidation there are definitely fewer jobs. How do you separate yourself from the pack?

Having been in this business for over 23 years, I have discovered that not everyone has the drive and love for broadcasting like I do. I've seen many throw up their hands in frustration and leave the business altogether. The ones with passion stick around for the long haul.

7) What has been your biggest career accomplishment?

Being in the business this long and still making money doing it. I am very fortunate and don't take that for granted, because I know a lot of good men and women with talent leave the business because of lack of work.

8) What do you miss most about music/radio? The least?

Most: Local voice talent and music. Way too much syndication for sure. Radio is at its best when it's "Live & Local". Least: Automation. I know it's a "must-have" these days, but it's way overused and it's not a perfect system.

9) Having been through all you have dealt with in this biz, what advice would you give people trying to break in?

If it is truly your dream to be in radio and you have a passion for it, then by all means, go for it. If you're just looking for a "fun job," then steer clear. Either you're all in or all out.

10) Where do you see yourself in five years? Ten years?

I'm not aiming for a top -10 market. If that happens, great. But I would like to be in a city that I love and hopefully, the city loves me back. Somewhere near the beach or the D.C. area maybe.

Any books you can recommend to people who need something inspirational to read?

I recently purchased "Investing for Dummies." This book is great but it doesn't teach you how to get rich quick. It teaches you how not to die poor!