The greatest mentor of all time said that we should not let our left hand know what our right hand is doing. That’s wise. Helping other people is its’ own reward. Besides, it feels right and creates future leaders in our industry. Mentorship also comes with a fair dose of introspection and reflection from young “up and comers” with a fresh perspective.
Yogi Bhajan, a wise “Teacher for the Ages” in the 20th century said,
“If you want to learn something, read about it. If you want to understand something, write about it. If you want to master something, teach it.”
Lately, I have learned more than imagined by participating in the career of future broadcasters. Perhaps the following stories will spark a few ideas of your own. So, please indulge me as I share what the left hand is doing at our stations in Janesville.
During the 2017 WBA Student Seminar, one attentive student engaged me in discussion after the “Business of Broadcasting” session, which led to an email exchange, which led to his request to visit the WCLO-WJVL studios and shadow our news director, Stan Stricker. Cody Barnes traveled 60 miles, showed up at 6:15 a.m., and soaked up a real world news experience like a sponge. His feedback, “This experience rekindled my passion for news. I am still going to pursue my dream of being a network anchor.”
This summer, an intern from UW-Whitewater became immersed in our promotions, remotes, and sales calls. Derek DeMott, reflected, “I am grateful for having the exposure to the radio industry and advertising field outside the classroom setting. I learned first-hand that it’s still an effective medium yet today that can produce results for local businesses.” Derek inspired us with his fresh enthusiasm for business of broadcasting. Along with a little summer cash, we gave Derek a formative experience for greater clarity in his career ahead. Our call letters won’t look too bad on his resume, either.
The WBA Young Professionals renewed the Mentorship Program this year. I have two account executives that “check in” to discuss challenges, trends, and opportunities. The objectivity that comes from a mentor (that is not their boss) can be a career saver. Occasionally, I have sent them station materials and training tips for immediate implementation.
Conversations with young broadcasters adds purpose to my role along with reminders of why and how to serve my staff effectively.
Edison Middle School in Janesville asked for an experiential learning experience last November. So, with our station truck parked on the school lawn, I blasted WJVL Country and WCLO News-Talk-Sports for excited students as they asked fourteen questions all at once! Their teacher was pleased when I emphasized the need to learn all subjects thoroughly which could contribute to their various careers in broadcasting. The “class clowns” were pleased to realize that their impetuous knack for humor could be applied on-air as a DJ some day!
There are innumerable ways to steer future broadcasters and “build a bench” for our radio and television stations. Perhaps you conduct station tours for schools or scout troops; allow job shadows for a day or two; employ interns with meaningful work; speak to high school and college students including engineering classes; or just get on the phone with young people that need a little guidance. I applaud all of the above!
It was Steven Spielberg who said, “The delicate balance of mentoring someone is not creating them in your own image, but giving them the opportunity to create themselves.” One by one, each of our mentees will create the broadcast industry of the future. Isn’t that a great legacy for a life well spent?
Mike O’Brien
General Manager
WCLO/WJVL, Janesville
