Producer job duties master list
Every content producer job description will be slightly different, depending on the strengths and weaknesses of the other show players, but there’s no doubt that the job is an important one, especially now with content being posted to multiple platforms. Some shows may need more structure and social media help. Others may need more content development and creative ideas. Here, I’ve compiled a list of all the duties a producer might do.
In addition to the specific tasks, it’s crucial that the producer wants the show to succeed. It helps even more if they’re a fan of the personalities. I remember interviewing one potential producer who was applying for one show, but made it clear they really wanted to work with our other show. They did not get the job.
The other imperative is an understanding that everything in life is potential content. Everywhere you look, everywhere you go, your producer radar should be up. It’s a muscle that once you start flexing, it’s difficult to stop. I talk to people who haven’t been in radio for a while, but still gather ideas for a show they don’t even do anymore!
Here’s an idea of what a producer, or show players who act as producers, do on a given day. I get it that many shows don’t have access to a producer – in that case, shoot for the moon and do the best you can.
BEFORE THE SHOW
Set up all active social media platforms – YouTube, Instagram, etc.
Pull audio for segments.
Go through a routine of websites to suggest the most timely content.
Watch/follow local news on social media.
Share stories from your personal life that could become content.
Finalize the run sheet and print it out for everyone.
Remind the show what the big two or three stories are that day. What is on everyone’s hearts and minds? How can we weave those stories into our show?
DURING THE SHOW
Anticipate the hosts’ needs when it comes to audio.
Engage with listeners. Screen and coach callers. Respond to incoming texts.
Line up phoners from listeners who texted or posted on social platforms.
Be available and ready to participate on air as needed.
Write down ANYTHING overheard in-studio that could become show content. Maybe it's a story told off-air, something someone said while taking a personal call, etc.
Look for behind-the-scenes moments to capture with a pic or video to post to socials.
Stay on top of social media. Filter comments from listeners into the show. Look for artist posts and tweets for music features, etc. Monitor socials for anything breaking or for new information that could add to your breaks.
Keep the show on track on station initiatives — are we promoting them often enough?
Collect winner information.
Always ask if hosts are good, and if there's anything you can do for them during downtime.
Keep notes on great segments to pull for archives, ‘best of’ shows, promos, etc.
AFTER THE SHOW
Edit, organize and upload show audio and video as needed.
Podcast production help, if needed
Edit video, add captions and graphics; post show content to digital platforms.
Attend the post-show meeting:
Maintain the main planning grid, mapping segments so you know what day and what time they played. Schedule replays at different times on different days. Ensure that the content is balanced from day to day.
What didn’t we get to that will still be relevant tomorrow? What can we reuse in a different hour? Is there any content worth following up on tomorrow?
Bring ideas from personal life, ideas for benchmarks, local content, bit ideas
Write for any bits – questions for trivia games, scripts for Ghosted, etc.
Help the show with the show promo that runs throughout the day.
Throughout the day, send timely suggestions to the show group chat.
WEEKLY
Look further ahead. What newsworthy holidays, events, releases are coming up that we can start planning for now?
Brainstorm social media posts for the week.
Keep a list of other shows/stations that you like -- go through their webpages, podcasts, and socials.
Be the liaison for the promotions department. Get the info for contests. Make sure the show knows what’s expected. Brainstorm upcoming morning show promotions, events, and giveaways.
Attend the sales meeting sometimes. Share with the sales team what the show has been up to. Brainstorm client tie-ins. Keep up with show endorsements.
Attend appropriate programming meetings either with the morning show team or as their representative.
GUESTS/INTERVIEWS as needed
Prepare guests ahead of time on the topic, direction, and how much time they will have. Remind them to stay on topic.
Prepare a one-sheet for the talent.
Become known as the one “who gets the get” – meaning, never be afraid to go after that big interview, especially for local stories.
Develop relationships with the local tv news reporters, local politicians, etc. for the big news stories.
Thanks to Brian, Hannah, Brandon and Stephen for your help compiling this list. If you have anything to add, let me know!
Keep showing up!
~ Angela
