Get ready, producer newbies!
You probably have decided to take the producing class if you are reading this post. Welcome aboard, the new leaders of ATVN! I guarantee that there will be times of extreme stress, lack of sleep, or even an emotional breakdown; but you will leave the newsroom by the end of the semester with hands-on skills and precious experience. My time as a producer has immensely improved my news judgment and leadership. It has also given me a better understanding of television news from behind the scenes. Here are some of the tips that will surely make your producing experience less stressful.
1. Be Prepared for the Basics
General knowledge and familiarity with current news give you a strong foundation to produce. It is always easier to jump on breaking news, develop new stories, or handle unexpected problems if producers are informed about the news stories. For instance, producers are required to have some knowledge about Catholicism and how the religion works when covering the new pope story. Producers had to know the basics to have better ideas about what angles to pursue.
2. Practice the Technical Skills
Television production has a more technical side. Producers have to deal with creating rundowns in iNews, gathering information on CNS and CNN Newsource, writing slugs in the right format, and many more technical details. Producers also need to know how to use the video editing software, conduct phone interviews, and use equipment in the control room in order to assist other ATVNers. I will shamefully admit that I didn't know how to use the printing machine in the newsroom. Things as minute as that could stop you from producing smoothly. Be sure to get the technical skills you need so you can develop the content without feeling that your hands are tied.
3. Delegation and Communication
Every newscast is a collaboration of the entire news team. Keep in mind that you have many others in the newsroom to help, and you DO NEED their help. Do not stretch yourself too thin. Learn to delegate appropriately. Talk to your teammates frequently and make sure you are on the same page. It is a lot more efficient when you and your teammates are focused as a group. It is such a rewarding experience to see your peers grow and make the newscast come to life together.
4. Stay Relax but Focused
Producing live television news can be stressful, since we are working hard to put together a newscast that is as substantial as possible and must air at 6 p.m.. There is no straightforward rule because news changes every day. You have no second chance but to go with what you have. Even as pessimistic as it sounds, these challenging characteristics are what make live television fun. Panicking will do you no good. Just tackle the problems one by one and strive for the best. If the show goes well and all your hard work pays off, great! If not, let it go. Remember, what’s most important is your participation in the production process.
This semester of producing has gone by so fast. It is a sentimental moment to leave my position, since I experienced so many ups and downs as a producer. It is funny to remember how intimidated and worried I was when I first registered for the class. I am happy that I worked up my courage and took the challenge. I wish the best for all the new producers and hope you will learn as much as I did!
