Sharing A Note to One of My Million Dollar DJ Friends from 2013

One of my millionaire DJ friends asked me back in 2013 after the loss of his job, what should I be doing to get back on track after being in a major market for over a decade. I know what I told him 11 years ago is still available today. 1. You’ve been a beloved DJ in your city for over a decade. Everyone knows and loves you there. I told another Millionaire DJ friend this: If people knew they could listen to you online every day, they’d be thrilled. The people who let you go didn’t start your career, and they won’t decide how it ends. That’s up to you! 2. Reconnect with a salesperson from the station you were close to. Team up with two or three people and approach advertisers who couldn’t afford the station but would spend money with you. Market their businesses on your blog or podcast. 3. Identify the top social media influencer in your city and bring them on board for your new project. They can help spread the word that you’re back on air at www.yourownwebsite.com Let everyone know, you are back in play!" 4. Make appearances in your city as if you were still working there. You have built a lot of equity in that community. 5. Announce your new online show through a TV interview. 6. Have someone interview you about your career and current projects, then promote it online. 7. Produce a spot-on cable TV. It’s affordable and effective. 8. Hire young, tech-savvy individuals to help you promote your show online. Create flyers, assemble a street team, and inform local politicians about your new venture. Interview them as well. 9. Stop feeling down because no one is calling you for a job. It’s not because you’re not good; it’s because the industry has changed. Create your own brand of radio. You know how to do this! 10. Dedicate a year to developing this project. You’ll see it’s worth it, and you’ll feel energized again! 11. Become a marketing powerhouse for local businesses. Help them attract customers, and they’ll love you. Your big personality will draw people to in-store appearances. Champion the small business community in your city. 12. Learn to do production yourself, but don’t hesitate to seek help. 13. Embrace a new mindset. This is about life with a microphone, not traditional radio. Be genuine, not fake. 14. Don’t be lazy. Work at this every day. This is your project; respect it. 15. Remember, everything valuable comes with challenges. After difficulty comes ease, and you’ll find happiness. I’ve always admired your talent, and you’re one of the greatest I’ve ever known. Believe in yourself because I believe in you! I hope these ideas inspire you, me, and others to take control of our careers. Who will join us in pioneering urban radio’s New Media space? Are you waiting for someone to start an internet company and hire you? Subscribe now to get blackradiotalent.com in your inbox.