How To Become RJ, know Its Eligibility, Scope And Institutes Offering RJ Courses

Introduction 

Radio Jockey is a person who plays music on radio, chats with his/her listeners, delivers news, interviews guests and manages contests all with a view to entertain his/her listeners on radio. The performance of the RJ is responsible for bringing in listeners to the radio centre. So RJ has a very important role to play. RJ career requires enthusiasm, rationality, creativity of mind, good sense of humour, excellent communication skills & ownership of a live appealing voice. Radio Jockeying has become a popular career option for many youngsters. It is an exciting, promising and challenging career for those who have a passion for music. It is the only profession in which one may be recognized by one’s voice. To become RJ, know about radio jockey courses offered in India.

Courses Offered

Certificate Course in Announcing, Broadcasting, Comparing and Dubbing (ABCD)
Certificate Course in Radio Jockeying ( CRJ )
Certificate Course in Radio Production Programme
Diploma in Radio Jockeying ( DRJ )
Diploma in Radio Management
Diploma in Radio Programming and Management ( DRPM )
Diploma in Radio Station Operations and Management
Post Graduate Diploma in Radio Programming and Management (PGDRM )

Scope of RJ 

The major goal of the Electrical Engineering program is to prepare candidates to enter and progress in electrical engineering positions in private and government sector. Graduates are generally expected to work in the research and development of ideas, products and processes by applying engineering principles to the solution of practical problems in the electrical engineering field.
There are various leading FM channels and private radio ventures offering job opportunities. RJs can find jobs in AIR (All India Radio) and other independent radio stations. AIR (All India Radio) holds auditions for RJs every 3 months in their radio stations in various cities, especially in metros. RJs can do voice-overs for television and radio advertisements. They can also lend their voice to audio magazines and documentaries. RJs also can anchor or compeer TV shows or live shows or events.

Remuneration

Radio Jockeys are in demand with the opening of the air waves to the private sector. The fresher can earn between Rs. 8,000/- to Rs. 15,000/- per month. Apart from that sponsored programs, software companies can pay between Rs. 1,400/- to Rs. 2,500/- per show. After a few years of experience, the earnings can be doubled and depending on the popularity of their shows, RJs can earn between Rs. 15,000/- to Rs. 25,000/- per month onwards.

Some Popular Radio Stations in India

AIR (All India Radio)
Big FM
Radio Mirchi
Red FM
Radio One
Fever FM
Vividh Bharti Seva

Top Institutes Offering Radio Jockeying Course in India

Academy of Radio Management, New Delhi
The Mudra Institute of Communications, Ahmedabad (MICA)
Alis Academy of Radio and Television, Bhopal
Media and Film Institute of India, Andheri (W)Mumbai
E.M.D.I. Encompass Institute of Radio Management, Mumbai
Alis Academy of Radio and Television, Bhopal
Center for Research in Art of Film and Television (CRAFT), New Delhi
IRJ Institute of Radio Jockeying, Chandigarh
Xaviers Institute of Communication (X.I.C.), Mumbai

A Radio Jockey's job is a thrilling one. He gets to entertain and interact with a very large audience. Although not as popular as television, radio has its own set of followers. The success of a show depends entirely on how talented the radio jockey is. He also gets to meet and interview a wide range of celebrities on radio. A radio jockey also gets to compile his own playlist of songs for his audience. Let's see how you can become a radio jockey or RJ.

Why are Online Radios so Famous Nowadays? 

There are several people who use to ask questions i.e. why are online radios so famous nowadays? If you are among such people, here is an answer to your question. As we know that people nowadays are becoming net savvy. Everything is getting online nowadays. From simple net surfing to booking bus, train and airlines tickets, from any recipe to shopping, everything is available on the internet. You don’t need to go out now for their necessities as the internet is established enough to fulfill all your requirements.

But, what if you get an additional benefit of enjoying music while looking for your requirements? It sounds really interesting. Isn’t it? Online radios offer a platform to enjoy music of your choice. Suppose there is a person who is currently residing in another country but want to enjoy music of his own language, he can easily do it by simply searching an online radio station of his country. Online radios are growing at a faster pace because of the increasing demand.

As we know that majority of people love listening music. However, the choices may vary from one person to other. Therefore, there are thousands of choices available for you via online radios. Moreover, you don’t need to pay anything to listen these online radios. All you need is just a good internet connection and you are done.No matter what you want listen, you will get them under one roof. The best part is that the shows are hosted by Radio jockeys (RJ). An RJ is a person who used to entertain people playing your favourite track. Moreover, if you don’t like the track, you can switch to any other radio station. Just imagine, you will get entertain while doing your work on the computer.

Radio Jockey : Eligibility

Radio Jockey : Eligibility

Radio Jockeying is a talent based field. Even though no formal educational qualification is required, a degree or at least plus two is generally a pre requisite.The most essential factor for a Radio Jockey is a good voice with the ability to modulate as per the occasion. Apart from that, an RJ should have a clear diction, accurate pronunciation, flare and fluency in the language. 

They should be able to control the pitches of their voice and learn to use them to the best effect. Another distinguishing characteristic to become a successful radio jockey is the speed of response, good sense of humour, individuality, creativity of mind, spontaneity and an intensive knowledge of music. Successful RJs have the ability to twist and turn their speech according to the situation. Staying updated is very important for a radio jockey. An RJ needs to keep track of the happenings in and around the city. People will enjoy listening to an RJ, if they can sound different on the show. So qualities like mimicry, local dialects and comedy or humor items will help the RJ to carry on their shows. What matters most in this profession are, your voice and a clear diction. You should be able to adjust your voice and control the pitches of your voice. For example, if you, as an RJ are doing a programme targeted at the youth, you have to sound bubbly. On the other hand you need to sound more serious and mature for an older audience. Radio Jockeys should be diplomatic in character as they have to interact with people of different nature. They must maintain a down-to-earth and approachable attitude so that listeners can comfortably make calls and speak their hearts out.What matters most in this profession are, your voice and a clear diction. You should be able to adjust your voice and control the pitches of your voice. For example, if you, as an RJ are doing a programme targeted at the youth, you have to sound bubbly. On the other hand you need to sound more serious and mature for an older audience.

Job Prospects & Remuneration

The radio industry is just beginning to experience success. The advent of tons of private channels has increased the demand for quality radio jockeys. In India you can easily get inducted in one of the many radio channels and slowly make your way up to the top. If you have a good grip over some foreign languages then you might even be able to get a job as a radio jockey in foreign lands. There is a lot of scope for quick growth. All you need is talent, confidence and perseverance. As a radio jockey, besides getting contractual good money you earn by doing Ad commercials. As you get famous and your voice is recognized, other Radio Channels tend to attract you with better package. Alternatively RJs are also busy with doing voice-overs for ad films and movies. When they are being connected to their audience RJs also can anchor or compere TV shows or live shows / events. The beginners in the initial stage can earn between Rs. 7,000 to Rs. 15,000 per month. For sponsored programs, software producing companies may pay between Rs 1400 to Rs 2500 per show. After a few years of experience, the earnings can be raised double and depending on the popularity of their shows, RJ's can earn between Rs 15,000 up to Rs 85,000 per month. Another well-paid and upcoming option is radio broadcasting on the Net, which could earn you between Rs 40,000 to 50,000 per month.

Institutes Offering

In the field of Radio Jockeying, only few institutes offer specialized courses and most of them have been started by well known anchors. Some of these institutes are EMDI Encompass Institute of Radio Management, Mumbai; Xavier Institute of Communications, Mumbai; Academy of Radio Management, Delhi; Take One Academy of Broadcasting, Chandigarh; Xavier's Institute of Communication and Film and Television Institute (FTII), Pune; The British council; National School of Drama, New Delhi; Young Men's Christian Association.

What Radio Disc Jockeys do

• Study background information in order to prepare for programs or interviews.
• Identify stations, and introduce or close shows, using memorized or read scripts, and/or ad-libs.
• Interview show guests about their lives, their work, or topics of current interest.
• Make promotional appearances at public or private events in order to represent their employers.
• Prepare and deliver news, sports, and/or weather reports, gathering and rewriting material so that it will convey required information and fit specific time slots.
• Read news flashes to inform audiences of important events.
• Host civic, charitable, or promotional events that are broadcast over television or radio.
• Discuss various topics over the telephone with viewers or listeners.
• Comment on music and other matters, such as weather or traffic conditions.
• Select program content, in conjunction with producers and assistants, based on factors such as program specialties, audience tastes, or requests from the public.
• Announce musical selections, station breaks, commercials, or public service information, and accept requests from listening audience.
• Operate control consoles.
• Attend press conferences in order to gather information for broadcast.
• Provide commentary and conduct interviews during sporting events, parades, conventions, and other events.
• Moderate panels or discussion shows on topics such as current affairs, art, or education.
• Locate guests to appear on talk or interview shows.
• Record commercials for later broadcast.
• Keep daily program logs to provide information on all elements aired during broadcast, such as musical selections and station promotions.
• Coordinate games, contests, or other on-air competitions, performing such duties as asking questions and awarding prizes.
• Describe or demonstrate products that viewers may purchase through specific shows or in stores.
• Give network cues permitting selected stations to receive programs.

What work activities does a Radio Disc Jockey do

Importance Activities

• Thinking Creatively - Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.

• Getting Information - Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.

• Communicating with Persons Outside Organization - Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.

• Performing for or Working Directly with the Public - Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.

• Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events - Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.

• Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates - Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.

• Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge - Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.

• Interacting With Computers - Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.

• Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships - Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.

• Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others - Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.

• Processing Information - Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.

• Analyzing Data or Information - Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.

• Documenting/Recording Information - Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.

• Making Decisions and Solving Problems - Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.

• Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work - Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.

• Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings - Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.

• Judging the Qualities of Things, Services, or People - Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.

• Scheduling Work and Activities - Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.

• Developing Objectives and Strategies - Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.

• Selling or Influencing Others - Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.

• Training and Teaching Others - Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.

• Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others - Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.

• Developing and Building Teams - Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.

• Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others - Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.

• Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information - Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.

• Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards - Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.

• Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates - Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.

• Controlling Machines and Processes - Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).

• Coaching and Developing Others - Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.

• Provide Consultation and Advice to Others - Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.

• Performing Administrative Activities - Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.

• Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material - Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.

• Monitoring and Controlling Resources - Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.

Radio Jockey : Introduction

Radio Jockey : Introduction

Though the popularity of radio had suffered badly with the arrival of Television and Internet, the opening of the FM radio to private channels has infused a new life to radio. Radio Jockeying is an exciting, promising and challenging career for those who have a passion for music. It is the only profession in which one may be recognized by their voice.Radio Jockeys are those who anchor music programmes on radio. The task of a RJ is to entertain the listeners by playing music or conveying messages in a most attractive and sophisticated way. They play requests from listeners, interview guests, manage contests and also provide information on the music, weather and traffic. This is a profession which requires a lot of hard work and presence of mind. It is the performance of these Radio Jockeys that makes or mars the radio station. Mostly youngsters are preferred in this field as they have new ideas, concepts and are bubbling with enthusiasm.

Every successful Radio Jockey has their own style of communicating. To make an imprint in the listeners heart, apart from a good voice, the Radio Jockey should be warm, friendly, spontaneous, dynamic and must possess good communication skills. One who is interested in this field must keep on observing how the RJ's handle the calls, interact with the listeners, how they answer tricky and awkward questions and comments from the listeners etc. Prospective candidates must listen to a lot of radio, try and come up with innovative ideas and pack their voice with energy.

Why BMG's broadcast school uses the mentor-apprentice model for teaching how to be a radio DJ?

BMG uses the mentor-apprentice model for learning how to become a radio DJ simply because it works. Who better to teach you ANY skill than a professional who makes his or her living from doing the very thing you want to learn?

Many radio broadcasting schools may be able to teach you announcing skills, but few are able to get your foot in the door of the actual radio industry during your training.

Inside a real radio station, much of your initial learning comes from observing what your mentor does – followed by learning how he does it. Just a few of the things your mentor will teach you, includes:

• How to use your voice
• The basics of what to say and how to go about saying it
• Set structure (how to start your on-air set - where to go - and how to end it...while keeping it reasonably brief)
• Discovering the economy of words – keeping it short, but being precise
• How to mentally multitask (being a DJ requires you to keep track of many things at once)
• The differences between talking over music and talking with no music
• Knowing the proper energy for your format (Rock, Jazz, Rap, Country...)
• Skillfully reading for commercials
• Knowing the role and importance of inflection/pacing/enunciation & pronunciation
• How to sound Real, Natural, Warm, Inviting, Engaging, In Command, and Authoritative
• Your voice volume and projection

As you can see, many of these skills don't come naturally, but can easily be learned when taught by an experienced and skilled DJ.

Learning how to have fun, and remain upbeat at all times while you're working.

Think about it. When you arrived at work today, were you expected to remain upbeat, inspiring, and informative to those in your workplace? Even if your boss met you at the front door and changed your job description for the day to include all these things...would you be able to pull it off?

Not likely...and it's not your fault! Let's face it – if you're like most people, you probably don't currently enjoy your job...so how can you be expected to know how to have fun while you're working?

As a radio DJ, all that changes. It may be one of the few jobs you can be fired from for not having fun and making someone smile. After all, when was the last time you heard a radio DJ who always sounded negative, down, and couldn't wait to get out of there?

An important part of learning how to become a radio DJ requires you to learn how to attract and keep listeners who want to hear your show on a regular basis.Do you think listeners will be inspired to tune in regularly to listen to a DJ who sounds like he should be hosting a funeral instead of a radio show?

Just as a college student is graded on the quality of work they produce, radio DJs have their own form of report cards called the Arbitron Ratings. The Arbitron Ratings measures the amount of listeners your show has, and provides estimates of how much time the audience has spent listening to your show.You can now see why it's important to attract loyal listeners, and motivate them to return regularly. Your job can literally depend upon it – and there are skills that only an experienced DJ can teach you to make that happen.