There are many ways that people can start their career in podcast presenting. Some start their podcasting presenting career by making their own podcast to build up their following, which then leads to other opportunities (small freelance hosting jobs, guest appearances on other podcasts or video/audio channels, written articles etc). Some start a show on internet/community radio stations or with collectives and brands to gain experience and then move on to paid. Some may start as an assistant producer on a podcast and work their way up to presenting. Others may gain an internship at a production company and make connections/build relationships which allow them to progress their career and ultimately present their own programme.
Whichever route you end up taking, it is wise to start gaining as much poscasting experience as possible to increase your skills and grow your network. Many presenters started out as producers – see where you can volunteer and develop your skills in a supportive environment. Apply for work experience at podcast-hungry brands and collectives, or independent production companies that produce podcasts for various clients. This could mean that you gain experience working on a range of different types of podcasts and help you carve your own niche.
Start networking – do you know anyone who already works in the podcast industry? See if you could shadow them for a day or two to see what their working life is like. Perhaps you can suggest creative ideas – why not ask whether you can help in any way, and who knows where it may lead? Often, proving you are motivated, outgoing, have the right presenting skills and are willing to do the groundwork is all it takes for people to notice!
Studying Radio, Audio & Podcasting at pointblank will kickstart your career in podcast presenting. You will learn a wide range of transferable skills with expert lecturers who are working in the industry right now – from producing podcasts, radio shows, documentaries and audio imaging, developing original ideas, researching, presenting, creating visual assets for social media and understanding how the industry operates. All these skills are important for presenters to know when they start building their own team or join an existing one. Understanding everyone’s job means that ultimately people will enjoy working with you. And this leads to more opportunities! It will also enable you to speed up the growth of your industry connections.