Broadcasting Myths Busted

During my time on TV, I've found that the public has some perceptions about broadcasters that are removed from reality. They see Stuart Scott on Sportscenter and Katie Couric on the CBS Nightly News and assume that they represent the image of the majority. Here are three of the top myths debunked.

1.) Myth- It's not that hard to get a job right out of college

     Reality- Jobs in all fields are difficult to find right now, and that's no more evident than in the world of television. Positions are becoming more and more rare. The economy has had a big trickle effect on the industry. Outside companies are no longer buying as much advertising, so TV budgets are lower which means less jobs to go around. In the past, every reporter had their own photographer, but now stations are getting by with MMJ (Multi Media Journalists) or One-Man Bands. These people do everything themselves, including the filming, reporting, and editing.

2.) Myth- We're all filthy rich.
     Reality- I wish! Just like the American population, the upper crust of broadcasters make the great majority of the cash out there. Those that are lucky enough to reach Top 20 markets can make bank, but for the most part the average TV personality is ridiculously underpaid. At my first anchoring job, I made $8.00 an hour. That's less than a dollar more than NY minimum wage (and probably less than most McDonald's managers).

3.) Myth- You can work anywhere you want.
     Reality- Friends often ask me, "Why aren't you working in Chicago if you like it so much." The answer is that Chicago is the #3 market in the country (out of 211) and you have to have many years of experience, a lot of skill, and a lot of luck to just get there. Talented broadcasters can work their whole lives to get to a big city, and it just might not happen. This is due to the extreme scarcity of jobs at the top. If you make it to those places, you don't want to leave. People that do make it there are for the most part "lifers" (staying put at your position for the rest of your life). You have to be flexible in this industry and be willing to go anywhere if you want to make it, because there are only a couple stations and a handful of jobs in every market. I never expected to come to New York, but it ended up working out pretty well for me.

The broadcasting business may not be as glamorous as people think, but don't get me wrong. It's still a blast. I never considered my work a job. I always enjoyed going to the station everyday. If you can handle the cons, the pros are amazing.