Prescreening Questions for Broadcasters: All You Need to Know

Asking for Basic Details

Nothing complex, just start with the basics. "What is your full name?" might seem too obvious, but trust me, starting with this question helps set the stage and makes the candidate comfortable.

Checking broadcasting experience

"Do you have prior experience as a Broadcaster?" This question seems straightforward, but the answer can provide insights into the broadcasters’ experience and how it aligns with your requirements.

Understanding more about their previous experiences

While experience matters, the details matter even more. Hence, ask "Can you please provide details about your previous broadcasting experiences?" to get the complete picture.

Knowledge about the medium

Subsequently, you could ask, "In which broadcast mediums have you worked before (TV, Radio, Digital, etc.)?" This would provide valuable information about their comfort level, expertise, and adaptability in different mediums.

Academic Skills

Since you want candidates with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, don’t miss the question, “Do you possess any formal education or certifications in broadcasting or related fields?”

Comfort level with live presentation

Live presentations seem nerve-racking to some, while others thrive on them. Therefore, it's crucial to ask, "Are you comfortable with presenting live news or updates?"

Experience in writing broadcast material

A great broadcaster often dons numerous hats. So don’t forget to ask, "Do you have any experience in writing broadcast material?" which offers ample insight into their versatility.

Technical competency

Equip yourself with information about their technical skills by asking, "Do you possess any technical skills, such as operating broadcasting equipment?" This knowledge will be helpful in assessing whether additional training might be required.

Ability to handle high-pressure situations

Understand how they manage stress by asking, "Can you handle high-pressure situations such as live reporting or breaking news?" This question will let you understand their mental toughness and resilience.

Team oriented skills

If teamwork makes the dream work, then ensure you include the question, "How comfortable are you working in a team-focused environment?" A talented team can accomplish much more than a talented individual.

Handling feedback and criticism

Feedback and criticism are an integral part of any industry. So, ask, "How would you handle negative feedback or criticism on your work?" to determine their perseverance and resolve.

Work schedule adaptability

Do they have what it takes to adapt to irregular shifts? Put this to test by asking, "Could you adapt to irregular work schedules like late hours and weekends?"

Experience with audio editing software

A question that will give you insights into their technical adaptability is, "Do you have any experience with audio editing software?"

Comfort working in different environments

Comfort is key, whether indoors or outdoors. So ensure you ask, "Are you comfortable working both indoors and outdoors?" This could prevent any future discomfort in fulfilling job requirements.

Interviewing skills

To know if they have the charm and confidence to draw answers and make the interviewees comfortable, ask "Do you have any experience in interviewing people for broadcasts?"

Improvisational skills

See if they have the spark to turn the mundane into the extraordinary by asking, "How would you rate your improvisational skills?"

Investigative journalism skills

To uncover stories that matter, it's important they have a knack for investigative journalism. So, be sure to ask, "Have you ever been involved in investigative journalism?"

On-the-spot reporting skills

Because unexpected happens! With "How well do you handle on-the-spot reporting during emergencies or unforeseen events?" you can understand their presence of mind and quick thinking.

Accuracy and fact-checking

Establish their commitment to the accuracy of information with, "Are you competent in fact-checking and ensuring the accuracy of your reports?"

Knowledge about media law and ethics

Lastly, but essentially, assess their understanding and adherence to media law and ethics by asking, "Are you familiar with media law and ethics?" This ensures they are reliable and responsible broadcasters.