Looking to Get Back into the News Business?

August 14, 2025 by

Sure, there will always be TV news talent who have been in the ‘biz’ for seemingly ever. It’s the woman whom viewers have watched go from a young upstart to an established anchor. Or maybe it’s the well-known meteorologist whom viewers can barely remember as that shy guy at the beginning of his career.

This isn’t how it works for everyone though.

So if you’re a TV news reporter, anchor, meteorologist, or sports reporter looking to get back into the news business after some time away, you’re definitely not alone. And the most important thing you can provide to potential employers is an up-to-date demo reel.

Is a Demo Reel Really That Important?

Yes! As they say in the business, no demo, no job. That’s just a cold, hard fact. No matter how long or in what capacity you were previously working as TV news talent.

And your demo should be as current as possible. In other words, it should reflect the most recent material you did from your previous station as well as anything new that you shoot.

Now, if you’ve been out for a year or less and you updated your reel while you were still working, you can use your current reel. (Regularly updating your reel is important so that you have a reel ready in the event you are suddenly let out of a contract, you’re let go, or if you quit for personal reasons.)

If, however, you’ve been out for several years, you’ll need to cut a new demo. That means you’ll need to hire a service to help you and possibly use some old videos along with any new material you create.

The reason is simple. You may look different, and your skills may not be the same. And at the end of the day, nobody wants to see material that is outdated when applying for a job. It does not give an accurate representation of who you are now.

Are There Rules for Making a Demo Reel?

There are guidelines, but not steadfast rules for making demo reels. Experienced TV news talent agents typically offer certain recommendations to talent based on their career goals.

If you’re an anchor reporter, your reel should be in the 13- to 15-minute range. While montages are usually ill-advised for actors, this is not the case for news talent demo reels. As such, a montage that’s about 50% stand-ups in the field and 50% shots at the anchor desk is often advised. You should lead the demo after that with two blocks that showcase your area of reporting.

For a reporter, the average demo reel should be a little shorter, at about 9-10 minutes. It should begin with a very active minute and a half to two minutes of montage with active, engaging stand-ups demonstrating shots of walking and talking. This should be followed by three or four packages, preferably with live wraps. It’s critical you are in the story. If you’re a hard news reporter, you should also include a super feature story.

Are You Looking to Get Back into the News Business?

If you’re looking to get back into the news business, having a TV news talent agent can be incredibly helpful in opening doors for you.

A responsible agent can advise you on best practices for your reel. Furthermore, if you went on hiatus for important personal reasons, your agent can vouch for you, making potential bosses more sympathetic to your plight.

So if you’re ready to dive back in, contact longtime TV news talent agent Mort Meisner today. With over 30 years of experience, he has the skills and the connections to get you back on the broadcast news track.

Filed Under: Blog

Nationally-Renowned TV News Talent Agent Continues to Give All to His Clients

July 31, 2025 by

Being a TV news talent agent can be grueling work – both mentally and physically. And for many agents who have been doing the work for a couple of decades, they start slowing down, phoning it in, or simply retire.

Not nationally-renowned TV news talent agent Mort Meisner. With more than 30 years under his belt, Mort continues to be as engaged with his clients as he was when he first started – going the extra mile in placing clients where he knows they will thrive.

But for many news reporters, meteorologists, and sports reporters, this often means taking jobs in smaller markets as they hone their skills and build a name for themselves, all with Mort’s help.

The Story of Aaron Parseghian

Many young men and women come to Mort with the dream of working in their hometown. For some of these folks, their hometown is in a larger market like New York, St. Louis, Cleveland, or Detroit. For them, the journey often takes a little longer.

This is how it worked for Aaron Parseghian. His dream was to return to his hometown of Boston.

When Aaron signed with Mort, he was in Grand Rapids. He shared with Mort his desire to work in Boston, and Mort told him he’d need one stop before having a chance there. Aaron listened to and trusted Mort, so he accepted a position in Tampa. He would spend a few years there, gaining experience in this larger market while he and Mort put together a fantastic demo reel. One that would make him especially attractive in Boston.

He would stay in contact with Mort, asking for his advice and guidance every step of the way.

The Benefit of Working with a Nationally-Renowned TV News Talent Agent

Mort believes it’s crucial that agents be upfront and honest with clients about whether they’re good enough (or will likely ever be good enough) for their hometown or dream market. In many cases, reporters or meteorologists might have what it takes to get to their dream market, but are unwilling to accept that it takes time. And without a willingness to learn and be coached in order to grow, they may never get there.

With so many years in the business, Mort could see that Aaron was a dedicated and hard worker and that he did have what it took. And it didn’t take long for Aaron to recognize that he had made the right decision in signing with Mort. In his words:

“Mort is an absolute rockstar and exactly the kind of person you want in your corner. He’s been both my agent and my friend for over three years now. From the start, he turned my goal of reaching a top 20 market into reality, quickly lining up interviews and securing an offer in Tampa that he successfully negotiated up.

When I set my sights on an even bigger goal, returning to my hometown of Boston, Mort was relentless. He made sure I was in front of the right people, coordinated interviews, and kept pushing through every hurdle until we landed the right fit.”

Of course, even though Aaron had developed an impressive reel, there still needed to be an actual opening in Boston.

Landing the Job in Boston

In the final year of Aaron’s contract in Tampa, Mort worked tirelessly with his ear to the ground trying to find not just any job in Boston, but the right one for Aaron. Meanwhile, Aaron continued to hone his skills and deepen his experience as a reporter.

Mort knew eventually they’d find someone in Boston who would fall in love with Aaron. As it turned out, two stations were interested in him. But there was only one job that was right for Aaron. The stars aligned and Aaron is heading back home where he’ll begin the first week of August at CBS-owned and operated station WBZ in Boston.

Aaron and Mort both credit the hard work each put into landing Aaron this well-earned and well-deserved position. It’s a true testament to teamwork.

Looking for a TV News Talent Agent Who Will Put You First?

As Aaron says of nationally-renowned TV news talent agent Mort, “I’m incredibly grateful for his unwavering dedication and hustle, and I look forward to continuing our partnership for years to come.”

If you’re a reporter, meteorologist, or sports reporter aiming for a new market but feeling stuck, contact Mort today.

And get ready to see what he can do for you.

Filed Under: Blog

National Vs. Local Broadcast News – Which Is Right for You?

July 1, 2025 by

If you’re considering working as a broadcast news anchor, reporter, meteorologist, or sports reporter, you may have questions about national vs. local broadcast news in terms of getting a job.

In both cases, having the ability to deliver an interesting story in a concise and compelling way is an obvious requirement. And you need to have the personality and the flair to resonate with your audience.

But there are some distinct differences between being a national news personality and a local one.

Local Vs. National Broadcast News

Even though the industry is evolving and adapting to the presence of online news, it still attracts bright and driven people on both the local and national levels. So which is right for you?

Broadcasting both locally and nationally is exciting work. This will give you a chance to be right in the action. Working in a newsroom, your job is dictated by deadlines. And you want to deliver the best story within the parameters of those deadlines.

When you’re not on camera, you’ll need to possess advanced research and writing skills as well as creativity and storytelling abilities. In addition, in both cases you’ll continue to broaden your knowledge on all sorts of topics and you’ll likely learn something new every day. There are some differences though.

Reach and Scope

National broadcasters have an audience of millions and can therefore have a part in shaping public opinion that could have a positive impact on society.

Meanwhile, as a local journalist, it’s your job to know what’s happening in your community and the people who keep things running. This makes you more deeply connected with where you live and the people around you. You know the intricacies of your community in a way that most don’t.

Opportunity to Meet Interesting People

As both a local and a national broadcaster, you will have the chance to meet interesting people. As a local news broadcaster, you’ll interview a wide range of diverse people who hail from a variety of backgrounds in your community. At the national level, you may be interviewing some very well-known and influential people who are changing the societal landscape.

This is an invigorating aspect of the job for those who are highly social. It’s energizing to be around and hear the stories of people from all walks of life.

Recognition

A national broadcast journalist is more likely to be recognized because of the sheer scope of their audience. But local broadcasters are quickly recognized in their communities where they’re making a direct impact.

In both cases, broadcasters interact with public figures, government officials, and other experts to expand their professional network.

Chance to Travel

Local broadcast news journalists have more of an opportunity to be out and about in the community than national broadcasters. It may not be every day, and it varies from job to job, but chances are you’re not going to be sitting in the same spot 40 hours per week.

At the same time, if you’re not as inclined to be out on the streets and would rather be part of a fast-paced environment and team that delivers timely and crucial information on a more erratic schedule, national news broadcast journalism may be more up your alley.

Ready to Explore a Possible Career in TV News?

If you find the perks of being in local broadcast news appealing, be sure to check out our blog on how to pursue these careers.

And if you’re already established in the business and are looking for a highly experienced TV news agent to take you to the next level, contact us today.

We’re all about the integrity in the news.

Filed Under: Blog

Challenges Broadcast Journalists Face in Today’s Media Environment

June 5, 2025 by

To say that today’s media environment is hyper-partisan is an understatement.

And many people are stepping away from TV news outlets and turning to social media platforms that further promote divisiveness with dis- and misinformation.

This climate has certainly increased the challenges broadcast journalists face.

Challenges Broadcast Journalists Face

The timing is far from ideal. Disengagement comes at the same time that Chat GPT and other generative AI are upending the norms of how content is generated and by whom. Plus, platforms are ridding themselves of the fact-checkers who once kept information relatively safe.

As such, broadcast journalists are digging into how to respond to this so that people can access important information they need to make informed decisions. The following actions are essential (but far from easy these days) for broadcast journalists to take.

Don’t Resort to Clickbait Journalism

Given the withdrawal of viewers, there’s an appeal to attract them with clickbait headlines or overly in-depth reporting. This is a guaranteed way to get noticed by TV news talent agents. But for all the wrong reasons. And you can be sure you’ll have a hard time getting placed with any respectable news outlet.

Good broadcast journalists with integrity prioritize facts over sensationalism and provide analysis and context that go beyond the headlines. They focus on stories that are of interest to the public and hold powerful entities accountable.

Maintain Objectivity

Broadcast journalists are under fire to present a fair and balanced story. Unfortunately, this often results in giving equal weight to claims that aren’t substantiated. And the number of fringe viewpoints seeping into the mainstream is ever-increasing – making the line between news and opinion blurry.

To maintain objectivity, broadcast journalists must prioritize factual information from verifiable sources when presenting both sides. Using clear and concise language also goes the distance in sensationalizing or editorializing a story.

Present Multiple Perspectives

Well-rounded reporting is crucial in establishing the credibility of a story. Even so, providing a variety of viewpoints without proper context can create confusion and undermine that credibility. Broadcast journalists must be able to identify credible sources based on relevant expertise and a proven track record. Any opposing views presented should be in the context of factual information that highlights areas of disagreement and consensus.

Allow the Facts to Speak for Themselves

Broadcast journalists – and in particular investigative journalists – serve a critical role in maintaining a democracy. They do this by uncovering truths and holding institutions accountable. In this polarized environment though, such reporting is often dismissed as biased based on the target of the investigation.

This is why broadcast journalists must uphold the highest journalistic standards and ensure that evidence is well-sourced and verified. In this way, they can allow facts to speak for themselves.

Are You a Broadcast Journalist Seeking Representation?

Broadcast journalists play a critical role in a healthy democracy. But the challenges broadcast journalists face in this divided landscape make their jobs all the more challenging.

If you’re an anchor or news reporter who’s committed to unbiased reporting, you need a TV news talent agent who shares this vision.

Mort Meisner is that agent. Contact him today to see how he can make you a name to remember (for all the right reasons) in broadcast journalism.

Filed Under: Blog

FAQs About Mort Meisner Associates

May 20, 2025 by

If you’re a TV news anchor, reporter, meteorologist, or sports reporter, you’ve probably heard of Mort Meisner Associates.

Mort is one of the most well-known and experienced TV news talent agents in the business.

So if you’re on the lookout for representation that’s a cut above the rest, we’ll answer the most FAQs about Mort Meisner in this post.

FAQs About Mort Meisner Associates

First of all, we want to start by saying that if you sign up with Mort Meisner Associates, you will be working one-on-one with Mort Meisner himself. Despite the name of the agency which sounds vaguely like one of those large law firms named after a big-time attorney who would never represent you, this is not the case with Mort.

He will be your guy.

So What Makes Mort So Special?

Mort has over 20 years of newsroom experience. He’s had direct experience as a major market news director, assistant news director, investigative producer, managing editor, and/or assignment editor is a great place to start.

Recognized as an industry expert, Mort is frequently quoted with regard to the news media and is cited in college textbooks on the subject. Many of today’s decision-makers, news directors, and general managers, worked with or for Mort during the span of his career. Relationships drive this business and since Mort has the advantage of knowing so many key players personally, he can reach them directly and get honest feedback on talent.

What Else Makes Mort Unique?

Mort thrives on the connection he has with his clients. Truly. You could call anyone on his impressive roster and they will verify this. With Mort, you’ll never be passed off to an administrative assistant. You’ll always be in the know about who’s viewing your reel and any interest it’s generating from station managers.

Even after Mort places talent, he’ll continue to critique your work and provide guidance to keep you on the right path to reaching your goals. He’ll use his experience and knowledge of the industry to negotiate on your behalf. Since he has a knack for breaking through all the noise of this industry, he’s able to secure you with the most beneficial salary and perks, signing bonuses, and professional development opportunities.

How Does Mort Find Job Openings?

Anybody can search websites for job openings.

But because Mort is so well-known in the industry, he has connections with news directors and management and is aware of job openings before they get posted. And since he is a long-established and respected agent, he’s regularly contacted by station talent recruiters and search firms inquiring about talent that would fit their needs.

In addition, he regularly attends industry events and conferences to stay familiar with the top networks, large broadcasters, and even local executives. He makes the extra effort to put himself out there so he knows what decision-makers want when they set out to hire talent.

Will Mort Help With My Reel?

Of course he will! Although it may not seem like it, a lot goes into coming up with a great demo reel for TV news talent. And your current demo reel may not be highlighting your talents in the best light.

When it comes to creating and critiquing reels, Mort is a true pro. He knows there are various “tricks” reporters can use to make their reels memorable to the average hiring manager and will help you produce a reel that will make you more marketable.

As a veteran in the industry, he does have certain recommendations he offers news talent depending on their career goals. The requirements for an actor reporter, for instance, will be different than for a regular reporter or a hard news reporter.

Will I Be Competing Against Mort’s Other Talent for the Same Job?

Some agencies send one composite reel that features multiple clients for a job. Mort is not down with this. He believes in marketing you specifically for a job and not just lumping your reel in with other Mort Meisner Associates talent. Mort takes pride in matching talent with jobs that are tailored for them – based on the specifications of both the talent and the hiring manager. That’s why he focuses on sending out individual talent reels.

Now You Know!

We hope the answers to these FAQs about Mort Meisner have left you more informed. Whether you’re an aspiring broadcast meteorologist or a seasoned anchor, you should be getting the most from your TV news talent agent.

Your agent should be doing more than just placing you. He or she should be offering you guidance every step of the way.

So if you’re ready to see firsthand what Mort Meisner can offer you, contact him today.

Filed Under: Blog

TV News Talent Agent Mort Meisner Has Always Recognized Talent

May 7, 2025 by

Exceptional TV news talent has more than just great stage presence. While that’s a necessary component, there has to be far more than that.

That’s why talent agent Mort Meisner is frustrated that the industry is moving away from hiring singular talent and replacing it with teams.

And when it comes to recognizing true talent, he’s one of the best in the country. He’s found more than his fair share.

A Couple of Success Stories

When Meisner first started his agent business, one person who stood out among others was Craig Nigrelli. When Meisner met Craig, he had aspirations of becoming an anchor. He also had an agent who didn’t believe in him.

Meisner recognized he was rough around the edges, but believed he could do it. So Nigrelli fired his current agent and Meisner got him a morning anchor job quickly. Of the large pool of talent he now represents, Nigrelli continues to have Meisner represent him and is an anchor in Wichita.

As Meisner became further established as an agent, he was frequently approached by those not in the broadcasting industry looking to change jobs. Irika Sargent was one of those people.

Several years ago, she reached out to him and said she was an attorney who was interested in becoming an anchorwoman. Meisner recognized that she had all the necessary elements in place to make it as an anchor. He also recognized that it would take some time and told her that she’d have to take a major pay cut. Fortunately, Sargent was willing.

From there, she started in a small market in the south, moved up to Houston then eventually Miami. She is now in Chicago where she’s the top female anchor both in background and credibility.

Mort Meisner Has Always Recognized Talent

Of course, an agent isn’t solely responsible for a client’s success. There are always going to be those who have more natural talent than others. They’re just hard-wired for it. Still, no matter your level of talent, having an experienced agent can give you distinct advantages.

When Allen Devlin reached out to Meisner 3 1/2 years ago, he was a reporter at the NBC affiliate in Greenville, South Carolina. Demonstrating serious natural talent, he’d already won several prestigious awards. His goal was to get back to his hometown of Atlanta though. So he reached out to Meisner to figure out how to make that happen. Devlin had a fantastic reel that Meisner oversaw.

With that, Meisner was able to take advantage of his multiple contacts at the CBS affiliate and other stations in the market. Soon enough, there was a bidding war for Devlin’s services.

Recognizing true talent, several stations in the Atlanta market and beyond were courting Devlin. He landed seventeen interviews and received nine offers. He ultimately accepted one of those offers in his hometown of Atlanta. Since that time, he has continued to grow as a reporter and has become an outstanding anchor. Meisner continues to be his agent.

Championing for Every Client

Mort Meisner has always recognized talent and he continues to be a champion for news talent all over the country – fighting every day to ensure they get the benefits and the pay they deserve.

For a deep dive into how Mort started his career and became a true agent of change, you can read his memoir, Enough to Be Dangerous.

And if you’re a broadcast news anchor, reporter, sports reporter, or meteorologist ready to experience the benefit of working with one of the most experienced and well-connected TV news talent agents in the country, contact Mort today! He WILL do everything in his power to get your dream placement.

Filed Under: Blog

TV News Talent Agent Believes in Educating the Public with FACTS

April 10, 2025 by

Back in 2020, former President Barack Obama spoke of the disturbing fact that so many people voted for a man with whom he felt he had absolutely nothing in common. But he made an important point:

“The voters are divided. It has now become a contest where issues, facts, [and] policies per se don’t matter as much as identity and wanting to beat the other guy. You know, that’s taken priority. I do think the current media environment adds to that greatly. This democracy doesn’t work if we don’t have an informed citizenry.”

Four years later, here we are. And TV News talent agent Mort Meisner is even more passionate about the responsibility media has in educating the public with FACTS. It’s an enduring theme in his memoir, Enough to Be Dangerous.

Just the Facts, Ma’am: Educating the Public with FACTS

Mort often recalls one of the biggest stories he would cover – the Tonya Harding/Nancy Kerrigan attack in 1994. The story made international and national headlines.

Incredibly well-connected, Mort knew Detroit Police Chief Ike McKinnon and used him as a source on every aspect of the story. With McKinnon’s intelligence and the mad skills of investigative reporter Scott Lewis, Mort’s CBS affiliate station in Detroit was uncovering the whole seemingly unbelievable and warped plot while national and international media circles couldn’t figure out how they were getting the story before everyone else.

When the CBS network questioned the veracity of the crazy story and asked Mort for his sources, he refused. They threatened to not broadcast the story, to which Mort simply responded, “Fine. Don’t use the story.” When CBS turned it down, Mort gave it to NBC instead. Even though they were his competition, he knew the facts needed to be presented.

Is What We’re Hearing True?

It’s gotten increasingly difficult to know how much of what is out there is fact, and how much is mis-, dis-, or even mal-information.

While Mort was working at ABC in Chicago in 1983, a fire started in the lavatory of an Air Canada flight that spread between the outer skin and inner panels of the plane. It was required to make an emergency landing.

Ninety seconds after the plane landed, the doors were opened. The heat of the fire combined with the fresh oxygen from the open exit doors created dangerous flashover conditions. The plane’s interior was immediately engulfed in flames – killing 23 passengers who had not yet been evacuated.

Mort had a source at the Federal Aviation Administration (remember them?) who provided him with these horrifying facts. So while national newscasts were reporting there were few or no injuries, Mort’s local news was reporting otherwise with the data they had.

This underscores the importance of having impeccable sources. Especially now, when so much bad information is being rolled out as factual.

Demanding Integrity and Truth

Back in that same interview in 2020, Obama went on to say, “I think we’re gonna have to work with the media… to find ways to inform the public better about the issues and to bolster the standards that ensure we can separate truth from fiction.”

Mort couldn’t agree more. His objective has always been to uncover the facts and present them with integrity and truth. And he looks for the same passion in his clients.

So if you’re seeking a TV news talent agent who emphasizes educating the public with FACTS, then contact Mort today. And to get an inside look at Mort’s passion in action, pick up a copy of his memoir. You’ll be entertained, inspired, and even a little bit aghast at times!

Filed Under: Blog

You Need a TV News Talent Agent to Break Through the Noise

March 19, 2025 by

Being a broadcast journalist can be brutal. Maybe this quality is what drew you to it!

Whatever the case, in the highly competitive race for best ratings, stories, and career advancement, even the most talented TV news anchors, reporters, and meteorologists can get lost in the din.

If you can relate to this feeling, then it’s time to secure a TV news talent agent to break through the noise.

The Benefits of Hiring a TV News Talent Agent to Break Through the Noise

When you work with an experienced agent who has connections, prowess, and savvy, you stand a much better chance of seeing your career soar to new heights. A well-connected agent knows how to secure opportunities for you that can transform your career trajectory.

How do they do this?

Highlight Personal Branding

The world of broadcast is full of noisy talking heads that can become difficult to tell apart. An excellent agent knows the value of personal branding and how to parse out what makes you unique. And he or she will work tirelessly toward this end.

Along with carefully reviewing your resume reel, they offer suggestions and constructive feedback for your demo reel. An effective agent will identify your niche – the place where you truly shine – and then do everything in their power to highlight this area of expertise.

This branding also extends to your online presence; ensuring that your personal website and social media profiles showcase your strengths.

Use Powerful Negotiation Tactics

Even if you thrive on the wild and woolly industry of broadcast, you may feel a little sheepish when it comes to salary negotiation. That’s not unusual.

An experienced TV news agents uses their experience and knowledge of the industry to negotiate on your behalf. Because he or she has a knack for breaking through all the noise, they’re able to secure you with the most beneficial salary and perks, signing bonuses, and professional development opportunities.

Take Advantage of a Strong Network

Does your current agent understand the subtle shifts that regularly occur in news formats, viewer preferences, and tech? Are they able to anticipate these shifts and changes so they can position you for success? A lot of this has to do with how well-connected your agent is.

Any agent who doesn’t have an expansive network of relationships with decision-makers such as news directors, executive producers, and station managers is not going to help you get very far. You need an agent who regularly attends industry events, conferences, and social gatherings. Doing so is crucial for building rapport and trust, and gaining insider access to possible opportunities for you long before they become public.

See Placement As Only the First Step

If your agent’s only goal is to get you placed and then move on to the next client, you and your career deserve more than that. Much more.

The difference between an excellent TV news agent and an average one is the ongoing support and guidance they provide their clients throughout their careers. When it comes to contract negotiation, crisis management, and development advice, you need a TV news talent agent who’s going to be there every step of the way.

So if you don’t have that with your current agent, it’s time to move on.

Insist on the Best TV News Talent Agent

To get ahead in your career as a broadcast journalist, you need a TV news talent agent to break through the noise and empower your career journey.

Mort Meisner is that agent. He possesses the skills and connections that will help you thrive, while providing the support you need to have a successful career in broadcast journalism.

So contact him today to get started. And enjoy the advantages of his extensive experience.

Filed Under: Blog

Why You Need a TV News Talent Agent As Your Guide

March 7, 2025 by

Most broadcast reporters, anchors, meteorologists, and sports reporters have a plan for where they want to be at a certain point in their careers. Especially those who are relatively young and/or new to the industry.

But, as they say, life is what happens while we’re busy planning.

As any experienced TV news talent agent will remind their clients – young and not-so-young – things don’t always go as planned. What’s more, the best-laid plan doesn’t always garner the best result. That’s why you need a TV news talent agent as your guide.

Are You Getting What You Need from Your Agent?

Whether you’re an aspiring broadcast meteorologist or a seasoned anchor, you should be getting the most from your TV news talent agent. But how do you know if that’s happening?

If you’re brand new to having an agent, you may not even be aware of what job duties your agent should be performing. And if you’ve been working with the same agent for a very long time, you may have fallen into an established rut where you’ve lowered your expectations.

Yes, experience matters. Ultimately, you want an agent with experience in the newsroom so they understand the world you’re navigating. Ideally, an agent with direct experience as a major market news director, assistant news director, investigative producer, managing editor, and/or assignment editor is a great place to start.

But your agent should also be doing more than just placing you. He or she should be offering you guidance every step of the way.

Why You Need a TV News Talent Agent As Your Guide

Moving forward in your career should never be only about making more money. A good agent will ask you to consider whether your next career move is the best choice for you on many different levels.

For instance, have you come far enough in your career development? An aspiring reporter or meteorologist needs to have stellar writing skills, tracking skills, and live skills. In addition, an up-and-coming reporter needs to hone their source development skills. If these aren’t at the level where they should be, it may not be wise to take that higher-paying position just yet. Your TV news agent should be able to consult you on this.

On the flip side, is the job that’s being offered in the market that you want not paying enough given your level of experience? Your agent should be aware of this and encourage you to strongly consider whether it’s in your best interest to take it when you’re worth so much more. Taking a low-paying job in a place where you won’t thrive (even if it is a bigger market) is not the recipe for success.

What Does Good Guidance Look Like?

Many motivating factors determine a TV news reporter’s or meteorologist’s plan.

For example, perhaps a broadcast sports reporter spent three years developing their skills in a mid-70s market, then took a job in a mid-30s market for two years to further fine-tune their abilities. Their ultimate goal is to get into a mid-teens market and back to their hometown.

But when that opportunity presents itself, an agent should always encourage the talent to think about whether they’re really ready to make the jump to the big time or is more seasoning in order? After all, if they don’t succeed in that market, how might it affect their long-term career?

Even if you ARE a seasoned vet in the TV news talent world, an experienced agent should always be a sounding board for you. Maybe you’re doing very well in a market like Dallas, but your goal is to get to New York. Do you take the first job that’s offered there and hope you can move up? Or do you hold out for your first or second choice position? You should be able to consult with your agent about what he or she thinks is the best decision.

Is Your Agent Truly Interested in Your Success?

If you’re interested in moving forward in your career as a whole person and not just the sum of your parts, then you understand why you need a TV news talent agent as your guide.

Mort Meisner is that agent.

So if you’re ready to use Mort as the ultimate sounding board, contact him today. Having a caring agent with experience and a wide scope can make a huge difference.

Filed Under: Blog

Pairing Amazing News Talent with a Great Agent

February 17, 2025 by

If you’ve been an on-air personality on the TV news circuit for a little bit but haven’t quite made a name for yourself, you may need a better TV news talent agent.

Then again, it could be that you haven’t quite found your footing in the industry and are wondering where you could be stronger.

Whatever the case, success is most easily found when pairing amazing TV news talent with a great agent.

Do You Possess the Qualities of Amazing TV News Talent ?

If you’ve worked a job or two but don’t seem to be going anywhere, you may be missing something.

First and foremost, the key to landing more work and moving up in the industry starts with serious leadership skills. Especially if you’re jockeying for a prestigious position such as lead anchor. And always bring your authentic self. You can bet that the modern viewing public can easily spot if you’re being fake. And if you’re seen as insincere, you will not go far. Never underestimate the importance of highlighting your integrity and humanity. Any robot can report the news. Just ask AI.

In addition, if you want to advance as a broadcaster, you need to be able to get to the bottom of a story. And this requires solid investigative skills and the ability to know the right questions to ask to get the answers and relevant information. You should have excellent communication skills (which include navigating social media) and be able to handle pressure with aplomb.

Also, keep a strong focus on source development. Regardless of how long you’ve been in your current community, or in the industry as a whole, a committed broadcast journalist is always ready to give his or her contact information to community leaders such as city council members, the police, government officials, etc.

Finally, any broadcast journalist who claims that they eat, drink, sleep, and breathe news isn’t passionate so much as neurotic. And this will come across. So it’s important to have other aspects of your life that are equally important (if not more so). Maintain balance in your life to maintain balance in your career.

What Makes For an Exceptional TV News Talent Agent?

Just as there are factors that make for amazing talent, a great agent has specific qualities as well.

Being a TV news talent agent is multifaceted.

You definitely want an agent with experience in the newsroom so they understand the world you’re navigating. Ideally, an agent with direct experience as a major market news director, assistant news director, investigative producer, managing editor, and/or assignment editor is a great place to start. (Bonus points for someone who has ALL of these.)

Not only does this give your agent an edge as far as experience, but it also means that they will have connections that others won’t. And this is crucial.

Furthermore, when a TV news talent agent recognizes true potential, he or she should be willing to coach such individuals to help them find the best job for the most money. Having an agent who does this will likely get you at least 15-20% more than you would get on your own.

Also, you want an agent who regularly attends industry events and conferences; someone familiar with the top network, large broadcasters, and even local executives? An agent who’s making the extra effort to put themselves out there is going to be more in the know about what decision-makers want when they set out to hire talent.

Do You Need a Better TV News Talent Agent?

Maybe you’re already a superstar news personality. Or perhaps you’re relatively new to the industry but have what it takes to become a superstar.

Whatever the case, if you’re not where you want to be, it could be that you’re not taking advantage of pairing amazing TV news talent with a great agent.

Don’t hesitate to contact Mort Meisner. With a highly experienced agent on your side, you’ll have so many more advantages you just don’t have with a subpar agent or on your own. Your career awaits.

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