That's a GREAT reference!
Thanks, Jeff. Yeah, while I was typing that post, Warren Oates' face suddenly popped into my head. It just seemed so apropos.
Fozzie Bear's right on the money, Grasshopper. In fact, it sounds like our backgrounds are similar, which should give credibility to what we're saying. Go to your boss (don't wait for him to ask), let him know what you want, and volunteer for stuff. Anything. Even if it's breaking down cardboard boxes and making coffee (although it sounds like you might be past that point since you're already on the air, but you get the idea). Even if he politely declines your offer because he doesn't feel you're qualified to do what you're offering to do, volunteer anyway...he might say "yes," you never know. What you've gotta do is SHOW him/them (you'll doubtless get the GM's attention in the process) that you're a DOER, something this industry craves and needs. ESPECIALLY if you're willing to do whatever it is WITHOUT putting it on a timecard. NOTHING gets management's attention quicker and more effectively (and makes a good impression) than something (or, in your case, SOMEONE) that benefits his/her company and
doesn't cost them a thin dime, or that doesn't charge for every second they're doing something for the station. When I started out in radio, I put in an entire YEAR of free work as an intern at the station in my hometown. Later on, when a shift opened up, they remembered how hard I was willing to work (and learn), and my PD (with whom I'm still good friends today) approached ME and asked if I was interested in it. After a coupla years doing that, I got a job offer from a top-rated AM station in a rated market, and within a year (7 months to be exact), parlayed THAT into a full-time gig on the FM sister. You just have to be persistent, don't wait for someone to ask you to do stuff, and put elbow grease and diligence where your mouth is.
And now, time for me to go watch "Stripes" again for the 9 billionth time...
Jeff: I'll give Sergeant Hulka your regards. ;D
