That's All Folks
I didn’t want to be a producer. I still don’t necessarily want to be a producer, but the experience I have had in the media center will certainly help me in my career. Many of the skills that I learned in the media center helped build a foundation for me that I can use to be an effective communicator and leader in the creative strategy world. Before I go, I’d like to pay it forward with four helpful tips.
1. Communication -- While it can be difficult to do so sometimes, my teammates and I have found that it is really important to step back from our seemingly constant flow of work and talk to one another. We are always fielding questions and trying to help our multimedia journalists with something and we will sometimes forget to reach out to one another. That being said, I have found that taking a step back, collecting my thoughts, and then engaging one of my teammates is the best way to tackle the key aspect of teamwork, communication.
2. Prepare -- I cannot stress how important it is to come into the morning meeting with detailed and thoughtful story ideas and package ideas. I know it is an annoying task, but trust me, it is worth it. If I know exactly what I want to cover that day, I have a better chance of accomplishing my goals. While stories can change throughout the day, based on what multimedia journalists are able to obtain out in the field, my having a clear picture and vision for the newscast can help to keep elements organized and carry out a solid plan. It is important to keep this plan in mind when formatting the show.
3. Live Guests -- Live guests in the newscast add an extra element that helps to differentiate a show and display the versatility of the news team. I have incorporated a live guest in all of the shows on which I have been the Lead Producer because it is a way to disrupt the normal news flow that can become redundant. Talking about the live guests in the teases is a great way to draw in the viewer and keep that viewer interested throughout the entire segment.
4. Have Fun -- The semester goes by quickly and you will probably not feel comfortable until the last couple of newscasts. Take time throughout the semester and enjoy the process. Joke around with Tom and John. Figure out how to answer Stacy’s questions before she asks them. Just enjoy being in the moment and realize that the entire experience is what you make it to be.
