> No more than 3:30. Not one PD in major markets will listen
> longer. Lead strong, the first two breaks are crucial. Never
> include more than a :55 second bit. Do not include segues or
> jingles. Do include local content. Put the liners/promos in
> your own words, do not just read them. As far as editing
> goes, your prospective employer wants to hear YOU. So, what
> I have done is edit from where I start talking to end of my
> break, the last word I say is where I edit direct back into
> the first word of my next break etc. Be sure you put contact
> info directly on the CD, and cassette you send in your
> package. Hope this helps. Good luck.
I always do one minute...OR...A completely un-scoped aircheck. Both seem very effective. If the PD doesn't hear anything he likes in 1 minute, he's not going to like you. On the other hand, with a true, un-cut tape, he can hear mistakes and how you recover and he doesn't have to guess at how you actually sound. He will know, without a doubt that he's hearing the real you.
If you choose to send it un-scoped, I suggest you take the tape straight from the skimmer and drop in in an envelope...Write the date on the tape.
If you go for a more traditional "demo", Your first break should be strong, but not a bit. Your first and last breaks should include your name. Your tape should include at least one phoner. Don't worry about weather, unless it's a big part of the station's programming.
Here's how my short demo is laid out:
1. Strong basic break - Include the full station slug, your name, front-sell a song or two and get out of the break and into a song clean. Short and sweet.
2. Short phoner - Something that will generate more calls. Make the PD want to call your request line.
3. Simple basic break - In and out...You would be surprised at how few jocks actually do this well.
4. Promote something - Deliver a complete message, while using as few words, and as little time as possible.
5. Bit - If you have a GOOD bit, include it here...If not, skip it. Don't waste time trying to sound funny if you're not.
6. Show close - Should include your name, promote the next jock, and give a tease for an upcomming contest or popular new song.
There you have it! You've just put a complete airshift in less than 2 minutes. This is assuming that you're going for a job at a music intensive station. Remember, people listen for the music...Your job is to enhance the music, not upstage it.