What does it take to be successful in the television news business?
Strong writing, performance, and on-camera skills, along with being attractive? Yep. Those ABSOLUTELY have to be there.
But to be honest, they won’t mean a thing if you haven’t put any energy into creating a great demo.
Seriously. You could be the next Bryant Gumbel or Diane Sawyer. But without a solid demo, no one is going to care.
That’s just the cold hard truth.
Your Options for Creating a Great Demo
Sure, you could make one yourself. But do you really know what news directors are looking for in a demo?
Perhaps. Especially if you’ve been creating your own successful demos for a while.
But if you’re relatively new to the business, or you just haven’t had much luck with your current demo, you might want to consider using a demo service.
Just as you want a talent agent with experience in the news business, it could help if you’re able to find someone who has previous experience in the news business.
Someone who’s been in this position has thoroughly reviewed hundreds or even thousands of demos for hiring reporters, anchors, meteorologists, and sports personnel.
It’s not a necessary requirement though. You DO want someone who has a good feel for how a demo or talent tape needs to flow though.
So take the time to find the right video company.
Demos Are Crucial At Every Level
If you’re brand new to the business, a demo service is the best way to go to present yourself in the most professional light.
But even if you’re a seasoned veteran in the field, it doesn’t hurt to get an objective eye on how your current demo portrays you. It may be time for a change or an update.
Unless you’re already a master at creating demos, a skilled video company can make all the difference.
“I’m amazed at how the same people who write, shoot or edit great news stories struggle to put together their Talent Tapes,” says Rich Everitt of TALENTapes in Georgia.
“Nobody – even a well-meaning friend, reporter, anchor or editor – can look at your work the way a news director will,” Everitt says. And he knows of what he speaks. He spent years working as a news director and is now President of TALENTapes.
Everitt is quick to add that an anchor person’s demo needs to be able to showcase both anchoring and reporting skills. News management is no longer interested in viewing demos of people sitting at the desk and reading. No matter how good they are.
They must also demonstrate enterprising reporting and story-telling along with strong skills in live breaking news.
How Does Your Demo Represent You?
Whether you’re looking for your first job or your fifteenth job, it’s crucial you find a stellar video company with the know-how and experience to put together your demo.
While the cost can range from $1000-$2000, it’s clear that creating a great demo is worth the investment ten times over.
Especially when it’s able to represent how truly talented you are.
Which is exactly what you want in a talent agent as well. So if you think you have a great demo, contact us today.
We’ll give you an objective opinion.
