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A disc jockey (DJ) or announcer is an entertainer. Additionally, they work at radio and television stations, or work as part of the entertainment crew at an event. Watch a video to learn what a disc jockey does:
How to Become a Disc Jockey or Announcer
Education requirements vary greatly in this profession. If you are looking to work at a television station or radio station, a formal education such as a bachelor’s degree may be required. These employers may accept less education depending on experience. According to O*NET OnLine, many surveyed have a bachelor’s degree. Others have an associate’s degree or some college.
Job Description of a Disc Jockey or Announcer
A disc jockey may work at a radio station and specialize in one type of music, such as rap, rock, jazz, and so forth. They often have interesting or entertaining on-air personalities in order to attract a larger audience. They may have co-hosts that they talk to during a show, interview guests, and provide information about a song or songs the audience will listen to. DJ’s may be less scripted than an announcer.
Announcers often read scripts that relay information about current events or programming. They may work at tv stations, stadiums, or at events. Announcers may not be involved with music like DJs are and they may not be able to stray from their script. Another career that may be a blend of a DJ and announcer are podcasters. Podcasters create audio shows that audience members can subscribe to. They are often experts at a given topic and base their podcast show around that topic. They may interview guests, provide reviews of products, or give information on the topic themselves.
Disc Jockey Career Video Transcript
Part researcher and part public personality, announcers and disc jockeys—or DJs— use writing skills and a pleasant speaking voice to share news and information with the public. Broadcast announcers and radio DJs present music or the news and comment on important current events. Announcers who host talk shows usually research and discuss issues with guests and audience members in a subject such as politics, personal finance, sports, or health.
Announcers and DJs schedule guests for their shows, maintain a social media presence to encourage a following, and develop other creative content such as contests and events. They also give updates on weather and traffic conditions. Some work as sports team announcers, party DJs, and event MCs, providing background information and entertaining the audience or detailing the event as it unfolds for the listening audience.
Broadcast announcers and radio disc jockeys usually work full-time schedules in soundproof studios. Shows are usually recorded during the day for later broadcast or podcasts, but some announcers broadcast live, and may work late night hours, weekends or holidays. Deadlines and tight work schedules are common in these fields. Broadcast announcers and radio DJs typically need a bachelor’s degree in journalism, broadcasting, or communications to enter the field, but some jobs may not emphasize educational requirements. They typically need previous experience gained from internships or from working at a college radio or television station.
Article Citations
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Announcers.
National Center for O*NET Development. 27-3011.00. O*NET OnLine.