Agriculture Broadcaster
Position Overview
Agriculture broadcasters use visual and audio media outlets to report on news in the agricultural industry. This often includes television and radio, meaning their news reports will also reach viewers outside of the ag industry, as most of these stations have a national or regional audience. Therefore, agriculture broadcasters need to keep both audiences in mind when developing content. The information that they gather and share is collected from various sources. Agriculture broadcasters may also help control what editorial content is shared across the programming network. Due to the differing opinions that viewers possess, broadcasters have the responsibility to ensure the information provided is as fact-based and unbiased as possible. Agriculture broadcaster's may also help determine what commercials and additional information the network uses. They should have a solid understanding of their target market and what makes for a good news story.
Agriculture Broadcaster Duties
- Develop scripts to effectively relay news stories
- Collect and share agriculture news (markets, weather, events, etc.) from various sources, such as news wires
- Attend important industry events to report live
- Create advertisements and / or develop advertisement packages for local businesses
- Communicate with and / or interview industry experts outside the network
- Shoot video footage
- Utilize social media platforms for better exposure
- Ensure news stories relate appropriately to the agriculture industry
- Determine value-added information to include in broadcasts
Typical Employers
- Radio stations
- Television shows
- Television stations
- Trade publications
Required Education and Training
Agriculture broadcasters should have a bachelor's degree in journalism, broadcasting, or communications. In addition, they should take some agriculture courses, or possess an agriculture background to ensure they understand the industry they report on. While there are not many radio stations or news channels that are purely agriculture based, most will have a designated agriculture specialist to ensure information for this audience is covered, especially on a national level.
Key Skills and Qualities
- Computer proficiency
- Ability to edit audio and video content
- Outgoing
- Excellent communication abilities, both written and verbal
- Ability to interact professionally with various parties
- Understanding of general marketing principles
- Organised
- Strong attention to detail
- Ability to work a flexible schedule
- Excellent investigative skills
- Personable
- Can work well under pressure
- Efficient
Average Salary
The average salary for an agriculture broadcaster is £30,000. This salary range can vary greatly, depending on experience level, employer, and the specific responsibilities of the job (radio, television, etc.).