Technology has revolutionised the world of sound and has created a new generation of audio storytellers. These storytellers on radio, also known as RJs (radio jockeys), are the voices that inform and entertain us while we are on our way to school, college, office or market, or are simply lounging around in our living rooms.
Unique audio persona
There is a myth that RJs should have a beautiful voice. The truth is that RJs should have a pleasant voice, which they should use to engage with the audience. However, voice is not the only requirement that helps RJs connect with the audience. They also require a unique audio persona that gels with the audience; a persona that makes the audience feel the RJ is a friend.
Listeners gradually develop a relationship with this personality, so it is important to be consistent. This consistency can only be developed when RJS are themselves.
Be a listener
One also needs to be a great listener and an observer. The job of RJs continues even when they switch
off their mic and interact with people around them.
Content matters
Apart from knowing the language in which their audience speaks, it is important for RJs to understand the language in which their audience thinks. They must observe people around them by talking to them, noticing the way they speak, and knowing their stories. This helps in developing creative content and dis- cussing issues that matter to them.
RJs work closely with the production team and offer smartly de-signed content through specific shows, creative segments, and online, on-air and on-ground activities. The salary for RJs is not fixed but is based on their talent. It can range from Rs 25 to 40k per month in the beginning.
Choosing the career
You too can become a radio jockey if you are inclined towards audio storytelling, are interested in radio, and enjoy listening as much as talking. Graduation in Communication, Media or Journalism can help one better understand the medium and its requirements.
The Times School of Media at Bennett University offers a programme that trains you to become a radio jockey. The School, which has been set up by The Times of India Group, offers a three-year intensive programme in BA (Journalism and Mass Communication) in English and Hindi. You can join this course if you have passed class XII and have. cleared the entrance test.
The Radio course, which is a part of this programme has been designed by the Radio Mirchi team and provides a holistic experience through 60% practical training. Students are trained in acoustically designed studios that offer state-of-the-art sound production facilities.
The School also offers a one-year postgraduate diploma in Digital Journalism to meet the growing demands of audio storytelling on digital platforms. To be eligible for this programme, candidates need a graduation degree in any discipline from a recognised university.
(The author is associate professor, Times School of Media, Bennett University)
Published on:- Time of India
Date:- 07/2/2022
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