Students choosing to study broadcast journalism are often gunning for the position of national news anchor.
A national broadcast journalist is likely to be recognized because of the sheer scope of their audience. And they interview some very well-known and influential people. Plus, there’s the high of being in a fast-paced environment and on a team that delivers timely and crucial information.
But what you may think you know about the day in the life of a national news anchor can be deceiving. It’s so much more than just being on camera.
What Is a Day in the Life of a National News Anchor Like?
On-air delivery is only part of the gig. National news anchors spend the day (or the late night/early morning in the case of morning anchors) doing research, writing, and producing. Their job demands that they constantly monitor the news so they can collaborate with editorial teams and adapt to any breaking developments.
And let’s admit it. These days, there are a LOT of breaking developments.
Before the Broadcast
Before the cameras roll, national news anchors get right to work researching and preparing for their segment. They review news wires, read scripts, and rewrite content so that it aligns with their voice and style of speaking. For those working the morning shift, this can start as early as 1:30AM. Evening news anchors typically start their day mid-morning.
In both cases, they will participate in editorial meetings to pitch story ideas, propose the angle of the day’s (or night’s) biggest headlines, and coordinate with field reporters.
As the time for broadcast nears, they need to ensure they have all of the information they need. Then they attend to hair, makeup, and wardrobe.
The Broadcast
The actual broadcast consists of sitting at the anchor desk or standing in front of digital monitors. Depending on the segment, they may read teleprompter scripts and/or receive real-time information, updates, or breaking news from executive producers through an Interruptible Fold Back (IFB, or in-ear audio earpiece).
In many cases, they will also conduct live interviews with experts, politicians, celebrities, or on-the-scene correspondents.
When the show goes to commercial, they don’t get a break. During these ‘lulls’, national news anchors not only review notes for the next segment, but are in constant communication with the control room in case they need to update scripts to reflect any breaking news.
Post Broadcast
Once the main broadcast has ended, a new round of work begins as the focus shifts to post-production and audience engagement.
Along with diving into social media to interact with viewers, read feedback, and post digital videos to keep their audiences informed, national news anchors often record promotional teasers for the next day’s broadcast or cut-ins for streaming platforms.
After that, morning anchors are involved in post-show meetings, pitching stories for the next day. Then they head home with the intention of getting to bed by 6:00 or 7:00pm. Evening anchors, on the other hand, dedicate this time to fine-tuning scripts for later news editions, or pre-recording special segments.
Are You Considering a Career as a National News Anchor?
Now that you have a better sense of a day in the life of a national news anchor, you may be setting your sights on a broadcast journalism degree. Or you might be running away screaming.
If it’s the former, we encourage you to give it your all!
And once you graduate and are looking to start establishing yourself, contact TV news talent agent Mort Meisner. He can help you work your way to the top.
