Due to the popularity of last week’s post, and some people commented that I was being a bit of a ‘Negative Nelly’ – today we look at 10 reasons why DJ’s choose to stay in their jobs.
1. Passion for Radio: Jocks often have a genuine passion for the industry and love being on the air. You can hear it when they talk, the way they will represent the medium to the best that they can. They really love radio. This passion can motivate them to stay in their jobs, even when faced with challenges.
2. Connection with Listeners: DJs often have a strong connection with their listeners and enjoy interacting with them. Sometimes this can lead to some questionable things going on. Dodgy listeners, stalkers and more, but they do make a genuine connection with their listening public. This connection is a significant factor in their decision to stay.
3. Job Security: Radio can offer job security for DJs who have established themselves in the industry and built a loyal following. It is a bit of a double edged sword, but those who take their time to establish themselves, gain a following and enjoy what they do – are beloved by their station management and listeners alike.
4. Creativity: I love this reason – Jocks often have a great deal of creative freedom and enjoy the opportunity to express themselves on the air. Can you imagine a carpenter being given the freedom to do what we do? An account manager? Someone in retail Nope! This creativity can be a motivating factor for staying in their job.
5. Consistent Work Schedule: Most DJs in my experience typically work consistent schedules, which can be appealing to those who prefer a predictable work-life balance. Be it only nights, weekends, day shift – once you are there, unless you want to move on or up – then you stay there. We all like that fact.
6. Comfortable Work Environment: Who doesn’t like an air conditioned office? Many DJs find the radio station environment to be comfortable and familiar, from their favourite mug to favourite chair, some jocks even bring in their favourite microphone and headphones – why not! Anything to make your job more relaxing and comfortable for you – I say do it!
7. ‘Good’ Pay and Benefits: DJs who work for established radio stations may receive good pay and benefits, this is not true of all of us – but some – and I know we all would like more money to do what we do… need I say more?
8. Career Advancement: Let’s be honest here, if you are interested in advancing your career in radio, gaining experience and then building on their reputation, then being on-air is a great place to start. I have known of jocks who start on-air and end up being station owners and managers – no matter where your interests lie – it’s an awesome place to start and learn the ropes.
9. Community Involvement: We often have the opportunity to get involved in our local community. This is personally rewarding and can be enough for some people to be motivated to stay. Being a part of the community is often overlooked as a reason to stay – but I think it is one really good reason to do so.
10. Loyalty to the Station: Some DJs may feel a strong loyalty to the radio station they work for, and value the relationships they have built with their co-workers and listeners. This is not always the case, but I have known jocks who have turned down lucrative offers just because they would rather stay with the station than move on.
Why you choose to stay is sometimes deeply personal – other times it’s all about the money, the family and friends, whatever your reason – do so for the right one.
