Confused!

[t-bird]

I hope I'm in the right section of the forum.

Hi there,

I have just finished my A-Levels and during my A level year I became a radio presenter on a rather large radio station. Yes, I started very young- I'm 18. So, I'm finished school now and realising how difficult the media industry is. There was a big shake-up in our company and several of the female DJ's lost their show. Now, I'm not making a feminist statement here but I just want you to know the facts. One of us is completely gone, I'm still there, as is another one of them. I've covered 2 shows since this happened a few weeks ago and also been helping with general work too and some voiceovers.

To be honest I really need guidance. I don't trust my bosses or my colleagues anymore- the place is a massive gossip mill and they fail to realise that making personal attacks on people in the work place isn't acceptable. I feel as though if I leave this company and try to move away to another, it'll backfire and I won't get in due to my age and only 1 years experience. Maybe I'm wrong?

Sorry for rambling, I just really need some clued-up guidance.

Thanks for listening

[Rizzo]

Sorry I missed this one, hope I'm not too late..just my opinion..

Any company in any industry going through restructuring of sorts usually gives its staff the jitters, usually because the powers that be don't (perhaps can't) be transparent re: why the shake-up's happening. I've been in that situation a few times and it is unnerving.

I don't have any experience of your industry but I assume it's fairly fast-paced. The media industry in general to me means keeping on your toes, being adept with latest technology, trends etc so you'll need to be fairly adaptable long term anyway IMHO. Whether that means you have the opportunity where you are to learn new skills where you cover for staff that have left or whether ultimately your weighing up of the pros and cons mean that you move onwards and upwards to pastures new. Maybe by now you have a better idea of how it's panning out where you are?

[Lupita]

t-Bird,

Fret not - sounds like an opportunity to me!

It's always much easier finding a new job when you already have one, particularly in media circles!

Not only will you be more confident when speaking to prospecitve employers, but you can tell them you can't start work (for them) because you have another industry commitment until 'day 6 month x.' Being committed to your current gig is fine, and will often score you brownie points with the new employer/client company you wish to work for.

A while ago I worked for a few magazines: the trick to jumping to the next title was making sure I spoke to people at/close to the title WHILE i was still working for another industry rag. Don't be shy in trumpeting the fact you've been interested in radio since your adult mind logged on, and be equally declarational about wanting to eventually broaden your experience with them (the new employer). I can just imagine you sayin: 'although I am currently committed to radio 'gaga' I'm so interested in your station that I'd like to know how and when I can apply for a role that would give me an insight into radio 'greener pastures' etc.

Oh and while you're at your current radio gig, DON'T get involved with the goss, keep a clean nose and ensure you don't burn bridges. Reasons include future references, the narrow pool that is radio broadcasting, and the general rule for media that 'contacts are your stock in trade.' Plus you never know who you might meet, again, going up and down the industry lane!

Hth: report back and let us know how you're doing!!