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10 Questions with ... Zander
November 1, 2005
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NAME:ZanderLAST WITH:WLUP/ChicagoPHONE:815-263-2811
Please begin by giving us a brief career history...
Many, many places I have been ... but here are some of the more notable stops over the years: WQFM/Milwaukee, WXRX/Rockford, WRCX/Chicago, WCBR/Chicago, WCKG/Chicago, WXXY/Chicago, WLUP/Chicago (and now PT at WZZN/Chicago).
1) What do you do to maintain a positive mental attitude and stay motivated?
Keeping active with the job search does it for me. That in itself is a job.
2) How are you occupying your time, besides looking for a job?
I have three kids and a weekly syndicated show. That's busy right there!
3) Some people get discouraged or enlightened with the business when they actually step out of it for a while. Tell us your observations from the outside.
Radio seems to be in a confused state right now. In my opinion, there have been some over-adjustments to competition for listeners (Jack, Hank, Dave, Bob). Also, far too many Heritage Rockers have gone to the wayside, and to me that is unfortunate.
4) What is your best way to get your foot in the door?
Not sure really. I guess I have attained meetings due to who I know and what I've done. When I finally get my next job, I'll let you know!
5) What's the craziest thing you've ever done to get a job?
I sent a different aircheck each week for two months straight to Dave Richards to get a job at WRCX. I was on a mission!
6) What is the next job you'd like to obtain?
Production/Imaging or Program Director. I would like to continue on-air, as well.
7) How are you finding the "courtesy level" at places you've applied? (Callbacks, emails, rejection letters, etc.)
Other than emails, the courtesy level has been pretty poor. I miss those old-school rejections letters!
8) Are you finding salaries/benefits lower than you ever thought, about the same, or have you seen some pleasant surprises?
Of the few discussions to date about money, I have been very disappointed. They want more and won't pay. No wonder many seasoned pros are getting out!!
9) What's the most unbelievable question you've ever been asked in an interview?
What's the first thing you do each day?? (Pee!)
10) With consolidation there are definitely fewer jobs, how do you separate yourself from the pack?
Having more tools in your tool belt (experience in programming, production, promotions, etc). "Have headphones, will travel" doesn't cut it anymore!
Bonus Questions
What has been your biggest career accomplishment?
I was able to create a radio program in Chicago that became successful by specifically reaching an audience segment with programming that was not yet being done on the radio. It turned out to be something that I have been able to hang my hat on. I even created a nationally syndicated version of it (THE ROCKIN' 80'S).
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10 years?
Fulltime management of Zanderadio Productions, producing, and selling unique syndicated programming.
Any books you can recommend to people who need something inspirational to read?
"Life Is A Contact Sport" by Ken Kragen (thanks Kipper!).
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