Radio: It's not only about fun and laughs - we do work hard... well sometimes!

My PR Placement is at a radio station and what can I say – radio is a great industry! I work in the Promotions sector of our somewhat small organisation and have great opportunities to experience the numerous areas that are involved in operating a radio station daily. Areas can range from public relations and promotions to On-Air announcing and marketing – which is great for me as I am completing a double major degree in Public Relations and Marketing!

My roles vary on a day-to-day basis as everything can change in a minute within this industry. However, my roles revolve around liaising with our numerous clients, which can range from large companies such as Harvey Norman and large car dealerships, to small fashion boutiques, assisting with the creation, organisation and running of client, station and community events, developing media releases into a ‘community announcement’ format so that it can easily be read On-Air, assisting with web-based activities such as blogging, monitoring social media networks and uploading photos and SO MUCH MORE!

Times in the radio industry can get quite hectic - we recently had bushfires to the south of Mandurah and as our station are very community based and are currently in association with FESA, we worked hard to ensure the announcers were kept up-to-date with important information that assisted in potentially saving the lives of our listeners. We constantly posted updates on our social networking websites including Facebook, Twitter and our own website to keep our public informed and also acted as a base for donations from the public to assist the survivors of the bushfire as many houses were destroyed.

Even through all the chaotic times experienced within the fast-paced industry, there are still plenty of times for fun and laughs. We even have our own awards night dedicated to people within the radio industry in Australia – a time where we get to walk the red carpet, surround ourselves among Australian celebrities, including the wonderful Hamish and Andy duo and live it up like the stars!

I am learning a lot and having a great time doing so and will continue to keep you up-to-date throughout the duration of the placement unit.