Nailing Your Radio Job Interview: Tips from Radiojobs.org

Interviews can be the make-or-break moment for landing a radio job—whether you’re chasing an on-air slot, a production gig, or a sales role. We’ve seen plenty of candidates sit across from station managers, and the ones who get the nod come ready. Here’s how to prep and stand out when the spotlight’s on you.

Know your “why.” When they hit you with, “Why radio?” don’t just shrug, “I like music.” That’s weak. Tell them what drives you—the adrenaline of a live hit, the pull of real listeners. We’ve watched folks clinch it by tying it to the grind, like thriving on the rush of a late-night shift. Show you’re in it for the game, not just the glory.

They’ll dig into what you’ve done. On-air? “Toughest live moment?” is coming—own it, maybe a dropped call you salvaged. Newbie? Lean on a college station stint or a home demo. Off-air, bring a win: a producer who saved a show, a sales rep who turned a “no” around. Skip the “I’m a go-getter” fluff—give them a story they can see.

Expect a test: “Your show’s ratings tank—what’s your move?” Think fast—tweak the flow, call the audience, pitch a stunt. It’s radio; you’ve got to roll with it. Same for other jobs: sales needs a comeback, techs need a fix. Prove you’re not just riding the clock.

Research counts. Know their station—format, market, sound. We’ve seen candidates stumble by missing the basics, like pitching rock to a news-talk crew. Drop a line about their morning guy or a local ad—it shows you’re not just blasting resumes. On-air? Keep your voice steady, not fake. All roles? Fit the team—attitude shows quick.

For more, check out The Gary Smith Show podcast by Gary Smith, a Business, Financial, and Personal coach. His episode, Find a Job in a Difficult Economy, tackles interviewing head-on—how to shine when jobs are scarce. Gary’s not radio, but his straight-talk advice from years coaching pros fits anyone facing a hiring manager. Plus, if you’re dreaming up a podcast to boost your creds, we can help—hit us at mytalkradio.net. Listen below—it’s your leg up.

Browse Radiojobs.org for openings and share your demo. Prep right, and you’re the one they’ll hire.