Coaches Corner
Wrangling The Reluctant & Their Flip Phones …
Commercial radio is about turning a profit, but it’s also about rolling with the constant changes that come our way. It’s not just about the music or the on-air personalities. No matter what department you’re in at a station, everyone needs to be on the same page. It takes a steady hand and a touch of diplomacy to keep things running smoothly. As the industry shifts, these qualities become even more crucial with adapting to all the new ways of doing things.
Evolve Dammit…
In this business, listeners react instantly to trends and fads, yet many in leadership or those on staff, don’t get it. They often stick to their own stubborn way of thinking, preferring the status quo over adapting to how listeners currently engage with content. While many in radio are trying to do the right thing, others are still too slow in evolving. The term ‘generational’ is often used as an excuse for the divide in adopting necessary changes. Regardless of the generation someone belongs to, it’s about having the desire to get up to speed with the innovations being used in society today.
Best Case Scenario…
It’s like that one co-worker who refuses to switch from their flip phone. Meanwhile, the rest of us are texting, emailing, listening to music apps, and navigating with smartphones. The real challenge isn’t the new technology, it’s convincing everyone that moving forward could make their lives a lot easier.
The Issue Is Usually Fear…
The key is to show them how an iPhone or Android phone can make their lives easier with something they already enjoy. Start by using your smart phone to show them how to order lunch with just a tap or setup reminders that won’t disappear like a bunch of yellow sticky notes. A little patience, one step at a time, and they’ll start to feel more comfortable.
It’s Not Fun…
Let’s face it, no one likes feeling out of their league with anything new. We’ve all been there, whether it’s with new apps, social media platforms, or ChatGPT. Sometimes it feels like being in the Wizard of Oz: “Lions and Tigers and Bears, oh my.” So, be patient with co-workers who are learning to navigate all the new ways of doing what we used to do differently.
Bernie Madoff Who?…
Programming and or being an on-air personality is a mix of creativity, psychology, politics, left brain-right brain, business math, empathy, and the ability to BS when necessary. I think I just described a sociopath, and as alarming as that might sound, it’s not far off the mark. These days it’s about finding the right balance between embracing change and leveraging what you already know.
And if you need some friendly advice, drop me an email; samweaver@samweavermedia.com or text me, (972) 672-4812.