And Fade To The End Of The Semester
This great semester is almost over, and the Spring Team Tuesday completed its last newscast, which means it is time to transition to the next team of ATVN producers. There are some tips that are important to know, which I wish I would have known when I started as an ATVN producer.
The first tip is communication. People always say it, and it is a big part of class, but it really is true. Make sure that you talk to all of the reporters, multimedia journalists, the director and your fellow producers. It is cliché, and it is obvious, but it is easy to forget when you are in the midst of doing everything you need to do as producer. Make sure you make a conscious effort to talk to everyone. Figure out whether calling or texting is better, if an in-person meeting is not an option, and stick with that method for the semester.
The second tip is to not be worried about not being able to get everything done. It is easier said than done, but do not freak out. You will be able to complete everything you need to complete for class and for the newscast, and you should not get upset and break down when elements do not come in. It is easier than it seems to do the class assignment during the day. In terms of doing what you need to do for the newscast, make sure you set time to work on the welcome, the pre-shows and the super teases. Do not forget about the cold open – because it can be easy to when you have more important tasks – but make the other elements of the show a priority because they are essential. In addition, remember that you control the environment, morale and tempo of the show, the crew and the Media Center. If you are calm, the rest of the team will be calm.
The third tip is to come into the Media Center on your day as prepared as possible. Make sure you have at least some of your story and package ideas when you walk in, and that you have pre-assigned the reporter or MJ, if needed. Make sure you communicate with the other members of your team the night before, so you are all on the same page. You also need to talk to the leaders of the other outlets, so you are on the same page with them and know how to divide resources.
ATVN is a big part of the Media Center. Thus, you will be one of the student leaders. One major tip for being a leader is working with and communicating with the other outlets. You need to make sure you know what they are doing and what resources they are using. Do not, however, be afraid to fight for and/or reserve MJs to get your stories done. If you need something or someone, speak up and ask for it.
One final general tip is do not be afraid to ask questions – to the executive producer, the faculty and the staff.
