There's No Such Thing As Too Much Communication

There is a reason why the newsroom is loud; its loud because everyone is talking to each other. There is no such thing as over communicating with your producers, MJs, reporters etc. It's important to be in constant communication with everyone, so that you are not scrambling after the rundown meeting to know what story is what.

As a producer it's crucial that you know what everyone in your newsroom is doing, especially when you're lead producer. Today marked only the second time that I was lead producer, and I have definitely learned a lot since the last time I took on this position. Being in constant communication with my reporters and MJs helped so much. For example, I had two reporters out covering a story on Hayden's law and the release of the new I-Pad. I would call them every two hours or so just to get an update on their story. I would ask what b-roll they had, what interviews they had conducted and what did they have left to do. This helped a lot especially when it was time for the rundown meeting. Finally for the first time when I was asked what the video was, I had an answer. Knowing which MJ was assigned to what story, and who was editing it allowed for things to be done faster in the newscast.

Another thing that helped was being in constant communication with my fellow producers. Before the rundown meeting I had a pre-rundown meeting with my video producer to get a better idea of what video and sound we had. Just taking the extra five minutes to talk to him about what had been done, and what needed to be done, made it easier for him to direct MJs while I was in the meeting. Although it may sound like you're bugging your reporters, producers, executive producers etc., it's always best to double check just to be sure.

Just know communication is key. So until next time peace, love and happiness.