Mentoring

I frequently hear radio people bemoan the lack of opportunities for inexperienced, young talent to jump into our pool. Most stations run syndicated shows after 7p.

Don't even get me started on voicetracking in major dayparts.

I can understand why you might not want an inexperienced talent on before midnight, though I think if we really put your market's PPM numbers under the microscope, I might persuade you it's less risky than you believe.

And, I understand that this is about money: You have no budget to pay anyone from 7p-6a.

But what's stopping you from letting someone get some experience in the middle of the night if they don't mind doing it free? I'm talking 2-4a...

Despite what you've heard, or even read, I know lots of 20-something college grads who would be exultant if you'd give them a shot at being an air talent -- even without paying them.

Put the word out, on Craigslist, Facebook and on your own air and website.

It would require an investment of time on your part. You have to give them something in return for their time and effort ... and you are: an opportunity. But you can do more...

Coach them. Mentor them. Spend a couple of half-hours each week helping them get better. Put an end date on the experiment so they know up front, they get four weeks, or eight weeks, or whatever you think is fair.

Will each one be successful? Of course not. The majority will probably be "one and done," but still grateful for the experience, and still talking up the opportunity to all their friends.

And you only need to fine one gem to make this worth your time. One new, young talent good enough to graduate to a regular weekend shift...

The odds are actually pretty good.

C'mon. It's 2-4 a. What are you risking? What have you got to lose?

Would you be where you are today if someone hadn't given you an opportunity?