Different types of radio promotion jobs exist, and you will first need to decide which path you want to pursue in order to become a radio promoter. Some promoters will work for a radio station to secure advertising dollars to keep the station running, while other promoters will work with musicians and bands to help get more radio airplay and promotions. In either case, you will need to develop your interpersonal relationship skills if you want to become a radio promoter who is successful and effective. A marketing background is helpful, though not always necessary.
You will need to complete at least a high school education, though if you want to become a radio promoter with more ease, you may want to consider taking college courses in marketing, advertising, communications, and even English or other languages. These courses will help you develop the skills necessary to become a radio promoter and a trusted name in the promoting field. Community college courses are often offered in these fields so you can save money on tuition, and degree programs at colleges and universities will give you most of the skills you will need. Having college courses or a degree on your resumé will improve your chances significantly of securing employment in the field.
It may help to secure an internship at a radio station when in high school or college. Such an internship will help you learn the details of radio advertising, and it will help you develop a sense of what is valued in the industry. Once you understand the radio industry, you will be better prepared to make pitches to potential advertisers. Whenever possible, work directly with the current promoter, as he or she may be able to give you valuable advice to lead you on a path to become a radio promoter.
If you intend to work with artists instead, you will still need to learn about the radio industry and stay up to date on current trends. Your communications skills will be very important: radio stations will want to hear from promoters who are personable, reasonable, and able to communicate needs and terms clearly. Organizational skills are exceptionally important, and you will need to keep appointments, follow up on e-mails and phone calls, and stay in constant contact both with the artists and the radio stations. Do not be afraid to start small, or on a local level. Every promoting experience will give you the skills necessary to grow as a promoter.
