How to become a Radio Jockey

Overview, Courses, Exam, Colleges, Pathways, Salary

Entertainment & media
img
Growth
img21%
Salary
img40,000-60,000

Overview

Who is Radio Jockey ?

Even if we don't realise it, the radio is an important aspect of our life. Switching on the radio gives vitality to dull activities, whether it's long hours of traffic, a jog, or even simple day-to-day tasks. But have you ever considered what it is that brings you so much joy? It's a DJ on the radio. They are, in a nutshell, the charmers who entertain us with their amusing actions, tales, and playlists. An RJ's role is to enlighten listeners about current events across the globe while also providing some fun. Their work is not limited to giving daily news; they also play an important part in entertaining listeners with music, discussion, and interviews with a variety of well-known musicians and personalities. They also entertain the audience by delivering stories or providing mood-lifting feedback.

Typical day at work

What does Radio Jockey do?

The role of an RJ is to inform, update and entertain. Also known as Radio DJs, their work involves presenting various music programmes and entertaining the audience through other elements like interviews of guests - musicians, artists and well known personalities, either related to the music/film profession or even otherwise- providing commentaries related to a music piece and manage requests of listeners.

Radio Jockey job profile includes anchoring music programmes on radio channels and entertaining the listeners by conveying messages in attractive and humorous ways.They also play requests from listeners, interview guests, manage contests and also provide information on the music, weather, traffic and various other aspects of life in most hilarious and entertaining ways.

Abilities and Aptitude needed

What are the skills, abilities & aptitude needed to become Radio Jockey?

  • A good voice with the ability to modulate it according to the occasion and need of the circumstance is the most fundamental prerequisite for becoming a Radio Jockey. They should have good diction, precise pronunciation, flair, and fluency in the language they are performing in.

  • They should be able to manage their vocal pitches, or at the very least be able to learn to do so with little instruction.

  • They must have a good sense of humour, individualism, mental originality, spontaneity, and a thorough understanding of music and related activities.

  • Mimicry, regional accents, and comic or humour items are further qualities that will aid the RJ in continuing their presentations and careers.

  • Aside from the aforementioned traits, RJ should have a diplomatic demeanour since they will be interacting with a variety of individuals that have diverse likes, interests, and personalities. They must keep a down-to-earth, warm, and accessible demeanour so that listeners feel free to contact them and express themselves without fear.

  • Young people who possess all or some of the aforementioned characteristics may take a short course to improve their abilities and become effective RJs.

  • If you’re genuinely interested in a radio jockey job, you need to be spontaneous, feisty and have a charming, friendly attitude. When it comes to making a career in this industry, having a nice voice and a firm grasp of the language is always a plus.

Like in any other area, a study is essential to becoming a successful radio DJ. You should listen to excellent radio jockeys so that you may learn their technique and then build your own through practice. You must comprehend what the masses require and provide it to them.

Your voice is the most important aspect of your professional route. Your diction and pronunciation should be clear. You need to know how to modify the pitch and tenor of your voice. You'll need to modulate your voice slightly for various radio programmes, so keep that in mind.

Salary

Salary for Radio Jockey?

Radio Jockey (RJ) Salary in India :

  • Minimum Monthly Salary: For entry-level Radio Jockeys or those with limited experience, the monthly salary might be around INR 15,000 to INR 25,000.
  • Maximum Monthly Salary: Highly experienced and popular Radio Jockeys, especially those working with well-established radio stations or reputed media organizations, may earn a monthly salary ranging from INR 50,000 to INR 1,00,000 or more.
  • Annual Salary: The annual salary for entry-level Radio Jockeys could be approximately INR 1.8 lakhs to INR 3 lakhs per year. Experienced and well-known RJs may earn a maximum yearly salary ranging from INR 6 lakhs to INR 12 lakhs or more.
  • Highest-Paying Jobs and Scope: The highest-paying jobs for Radio Jockeys in India are with popular radio stations, both private and public, and renowned media companies. RJs who possess excellent communication skills, a unique and engaging on-air personality, and a strong connection with their audience can command higher salaries and may have opportunities for endorsements or appearances in various events and programs.

Ready to become a Radio Jockey ?

Take the world’s best assessment test !

Take a Test

Pathways

How to become an Radio Jockey?

Entrance Exam

Entrance Exam for Radio Jockey ?

Interested candidate has to appear in an entrance test conducted by EMDI Encompass Institute of Radio Management to admit candidates in (course 1,2,3) six months course. Candidates are admitted after the merit in the written exam and the screening test. Screening test only in case of the certificate course only.

Courses

Which course I can pursue?



Best Colleges

Which are the best colleges to attend to become an Radio Jockey?

Industries

Which Industries are open for Radio Jockey?

Radio Jockeys (RJs) have diverse opportunities beyond traditional radio stations in various industries. As the world of media and entertainment evolves, RJs can explore the following industries:

  • Radio Broadcasting: Radio broadcasting is the most obvious and traditional industry for RJs. They can work with FM/AM radio stations, community radio stations, and online radio platforms.
  • Online Radio and Podcasts: With the rise of digital media, RJs can host shows on internet-based radio stations and podcasts, reaching a global audience.
  • Television: Some RJs transition to hosting television shows, especially those related to music, entertainment, or talk shows.
  • Events and Concerts: RJs often get opportunities to host events, music concerts, festivals, and other public gatherings.
  • Voice-overs and Narration: RJs with captivating voices may find opportunities in voice-over work for commercials, audiobooks, animations, and documentaries.
  • Advertising and Branding: RJs may collaborate with brands as brand ambassadors or influencers, participating in advertising campaigns and promotions.
  • Digital Media and Content Creation: RJs can create engaging content for social media platforms, YouTube channels, and other digital media outlets.
  • Content Production: RJs can produce content for radio shows, podcasts, and online platforms.
  • Voice Acting: As voice actors, RJs can lend their voices to characters in animations, video games, and audio dramas.
  • Public Speaking and Hosting: RJs may be invited as hosts or speakers at conferences, seminars, and corporate events.
  • Music and Entertainment Industry: RJs with expertise can explore roles in music curation, artist management, and music promotion.
  • Celebrity Interviews: RJs might get opportunities to interview celebrities and public figures for various media outlets.
  • Educational Institutions: Some RJs may become instructors, teaching broadcasting or media-related courses in educational institutions.
  • Content Writing and Journalism: RJs can transition into content writing, blogging, or journalism, contributing to media publications.
  • Social Media Management: RJs may manage social media accounts for radio stations, media organizations, or themselves.

internship

Are there internships available for Radio Jockey?

Internships for aspiring Radio Jockeys (RJs) can be valuable opportunities to gain practical experience, learn from industry professionals, and build a network within the media and entertainment sector. While internships may vary based on location and the availability of radio stations, some common avenues to explore for RJ internships include:

  • Radio Stations: Contact local FM/AM radio stations to inquire about RJ internship programs. Many radio stations offer internships to students or individuals interested in pursuing a career in broadcasting.
  • Online Radio Platforms: Explore internet-based radio stations and podcasts that may offer internships for RJs. Online radio provides a broader reach; some platforms actively seek fresh talent.
  • Media Companies: Large media conglomerates often own multiple radio stations and other media outlets. Internships may be available at these companies, offering exposure to various aspects of media and entertainment.
  • Community Radio Stations: Community radio stations cater to specific localities or communities and often provide opportunities for aspiring RJs to hone their skills and connect with the community.
  • College or University Radio Stations: Many educational institutions have their radio stations run by students. Interning at such stations allows individuals to gain experience while studying.
  • Event Management Companies: Interning with event management companies can provide RJs with opportunities to host events, shows, and concerts.
  • Media Production Houses: Some media production companies work on radio shows, advertisements, and other audio content, offering internships in radio production.
  • Digital Media Platforms: Explore internships with digital media platforms that produce audio content, podcasts, or live streams.
  • Non-Profit Organizations: Some non-profit organizations run their radio shows or partner with radio stations to broadcast content related to their cause. Interning with such organizations can be both fulfilling and educational.

Career outlook

What does the future look like for Radio Jockey?

A Radio Jockey's work entails a wide range of responsibilities. They are not allowed to labour for a certain amount of hours every day. They do work according to the assignments that are given to them regularly. Any time of day or night, they can be asked to host a show. A Radio DJ should also be able to write show scripts and be up to date on the latest movies and music. He should also be competent to work with computers and sound equipment.

In organisations like AIR, Times FM, Radio Mid-Day, and other independent radio stations, there is a lot of room for talented RJ. One may get into this industry by auditioning or contacting a software development business.

AIR (All India Radio) arranges auditions for RJs every 3 months at its radio stations in different cities, notably in metros. The selection process is quite competitive, and the chosen RJs are given two months of in-house training in everything relevant to radio broadcasting, including CD player operations, mixer operations, and digital audio technologies, among other things.

People with 2-3 years of experience are often preferred by software businesses. Radiostar, Radio Mid-day, and Radio Wani are a few of Mumbai's radio software developers.