Radio announcers also work at news radio stations where they are newscasters, anchors, and co-anchors. Broadcast news analysts are called commentators, and they present news stories, interpret them, and integrate them into a broad discussion of how they will affect the audience they serve. The hours for DJs and announcers can be long and irregular, which can affect their social and personal lives. Popular DJs in a city are expected to turn up at promotional events and concerts which, depending upon the DJ's outside obligations, can be considered a perk or a detriment. The schedule constraints of the job can be physically and mentally strenuous.
Successful DJs can, however, gain personal satisfaction from their local celebrity status.
Career Path Getting hired in radio broadcasting is competitive and can be difficult. Experience at college stations and internships also help. DJs usually start out at a local station to gain experience and gradually move to larger and larger markets. Competition for jobs at national networks is stiff, and employers seek out college grads with years of radio experience. Anyone considering enrolling in a broadcasting school should contact personnel managers of radio stations as well as broadcasting trade organizations to determine the school's reputation for turning out qualified candidates.