If you’re a TV news anchor, reporter, or meteorologist, then you know how competitive and even cutthroat the world of broadcast news can be.
And while you may have landed your entry-level job in TV news through traditional applications or networking on your own, if you’re looking to advance your career, having an agent is crucial.
Most TV news jobs are filled by agents. This is especially the case for on-air talent. An experienced TV news talent agent is a valuable intermediary between news organizations and journalists seeking jobs with them.
The Process By Which TV News Jobs Are Filled by Agents
So what makes a TV news talent agent so indispensable? Well, agents can use their vast industry connections and leverage their expertise to help you achieve job placement BEFORE the positions are even advertised.
Here’s how it works:
Acquiring Talent
In their search for solid talent (both new and seasoned), agents attend industry events to make connections and provide referrals. They also regularly monitor social media and digital portfolios to get a sense of whether you have the on-camera presence, writing skills, and overall ‘brand’ to make it in a specific role or position.
Developing and Coaching
Acquiring talent is just the beginning. An experienced TV news talent agent who’s worked in the industry is able to see both your strengths and weaknesses. As such, they’re able to provide career guidance that includes feedback on your work, writing ability, and presentation skills. They may also suggest updating your demo reel and refining your personal branding to make you stand out more. And this isn’t for new talent only. An agent can spot when seasoned talent may need to refresh their personal brand.
Identifying the Right Job
As mentioned above, one of the greatest assets a TV news talent agent has is his or her connections with news directors, general managers, and station group executives. When it comes to filling jobs, these are the decision makers. And they give agents insider access to potential job openings weeks or even months before they are publicly announced.
In return, an agent is able to streamline the recruitment process by providing news organizations with a curated list of their clients who meet the criteria and will best fit the job. So you’re far more likely to land a position where you will thrive.
Placing the Talent
If a news organization expresses interest in you, it’s the agent who handles the negotiation of the terms of employment, including your salary, benefits, contract length, and relocation assistance. Because a skilled TV news talent agent is intimate with this terrain, he or she is typically able to navigate it better than a journalist flying solo. The result? Better compensation and terms for you.
Staying Connected
While placement may seem like the endgame, it should not be. A truly good agent will continue to work with you. He or she will regularly follow up on your progress, offer advice, help resolve conflicts, and be vigilant in staying connected with you. If you have an agent who isn’t doing this, it’s time to find another.
Ready to See How a TV News Talent Agent Can Boost Your Career?
If you’re relatively new to the TV news industry and are feeling stuck, take advantage of the fact that so many TV news jobs are filled by agents.
Or if you already have an agent and they aren’t providing all of the above services, you may not be getting the best results.
Whatever the case, if you’re looking for the consummate TV news agent who’s been in the industry for over three decades, contact Mort Meisner today. And see what he can do to boost your career.
