How To Become RJ: Radio Jockey Careers, Courses, Best Colleges & Eligibility Criteria 2023
- Naief Khatri
- Updated Date: September 19, 2023
Introduction
In the vibrant landscape of radio broadcasting, we encounter a fascinating group known as Radio Jockeys, or simply RJs. They serve as the vibrant heartbeat of this world, going beyond mere conversation to orchestrate a symphony of words, music, and emotions. What sets them apart is their ability to form an unbreakable connection with their audience, turning radio into an intimate experience. Check career in Film and video editing in India
Think of it like this: RJs effortlessly transition between eloquent and captivating sentences, sprinkling in compelling anecdotes along the way. Their storytelling is a fine balance, alternating between complexity and simplicity, much like a dance. RJs aren’t bound by scripts; they’re artists who use words to paint vivid pictures on the canvas of the airwaves. Some sentences meander like a winding river, while others strike with brevity, leaving a lasting impact, all with the sole purpose of holding their audience captive.  Also read Mass communication careers in India
When you tune in, it’s not just a voice you hear; it’s an immersive linguistic journey. Each sentence is a unique note in a harmonious conversation that captures your senses and invites you to partake in the melody of the moment.
What is Radio Jockeying?
The way people look at radio has also changed. Earlier, Indian radio personalities were simply referred to as radio ‘announcers’, but over the course of the last ten years, being a successful “radio jockey” (RJ) is considered no less than achieving celebrity status. And so, there has come about an emergence of dozens of radio jockey jobs.Â
What does a Radio Jockey do?
The role of an RJ is to inform, update and entertain. Also known as Radio DJs, their work involves presenting various music programmes and entertaining the audience through other elements like interviews of guests – musicians, artists and well known personalities, either related to the music/film profession or even otherwise- providing commentaries related to a music piece and manage requests of listeners. Click here to know career in Publishing and printing
Radio Jockey Skills
If you’re really interested in a radio jockey career, it is very important for you to be spontaneous, spunky and have a pleasing, friendly personality. A good voice and a strong command over language is always a good thing when you’re looking to make a career in this field.Â
To become a good radio jockey, research is the key, like in every other field. You need to listen to good radio jockeys so that you can understand their style and later, with practice, develop your own. You need to understand what the masses need and give them just that.
How To Become Radio Jockey
Becoming a Radio Jockey (RJ) can be an exciting career choice for those who have a passion for communication and a love for music and radio. Here are the steps to become an RJ:
Educational Background:
- While there’s no specific educational requirement to become an RJ, having a bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication, Journalism, or a related field can be beneficial. These programs provide valuable skills in communication, public speaking, and media production.
Develop Your Voice:
- Your voice is your primary tool as an RJ. Practice speaking clearly, confidently, and with the right modulation. Work on eliminating any speech impediments or accents that may hinder communication.
Radio Internships:
- One of the best ways to get started is by interning at a radio station. Look for opportunities to work as an intern or assistant in a radio station, even if it’s in a non-RJ role. This will help you gain insights into the industry and make valuable connections. Click here to know career in Film making
Build a Demo Reel:
- Create a demo reel that showcases your speaking skills, versatility, and ability to engage an audience. Include segments where you introduce songs, share anecdotes, or conduct mock interviews.
Develop a Unique Style:
- RJs often have a unique and personable style that sets them apart. Find your own style and personality that resonates with your target audience.
Networking:
- Building relationships within the industry is crucial. Attend industry events, network with professionals, and seek mentorship from experienced RJs.
Audition:
- Keep an eye out for RJ job openings at radio stations. Submit your demo reel and resume for consideration. Be prepared to audition, which may involve on-the-spot tests of your broadcasting skills.
Continuous Improvement:
- Radio is a dynamic field, and you should always work on improving your skills. Take feedback seriously and strive to grow as an RJ.
Stay Informed and Connected:
- Keep up with industry trends, music, and news. Engage with your audience through social media and other platforms to maintain a strong connection.
Be Persistent:
- Breaking into the industry may take time and persistence. Rejections are common, but don’t be discouraged. Keep applying and auditioning until you land your first job.
Legal and Ethical Considerations:
- Familiarize yourself with the legal and ethical guidelines related to broadcasting, including copyright laws, FCC regulations, and privacy standards.
Consider Specialization:
- Some RJs specialize in certain genres, such as music, talk shows, or news. Consider your interests and strengths when choosing your niche.
Radio Jockey Eligibility Criteria
What matters the most in this career path is, obviously, your voice. Your diction and pronunciation should be clear. You need to know how to modulate the pitch and tenor of your voice. For different radio programmes, you will have to modulate your voice differently, so you must keep that in mind.
Radio Jockey Job Prospects
If you possess the required skills and experience, you will have a number of job opportunities where you can show off your skills. There are a number of private players like Radio Mirchi, Red FM and others, who are always on the lookout for fresh talent.Â
Another radio station you could work for is the public enterprise AIR (All India Radio).  Career in Journalism
If you are good at your work, you also have the opportunity to venture into the visual sphere, with many successful RJs making the jump into television.
Pros and Cons of a Radio Jockey
Pros
- Fusion of music and performing arts
- Connect with various people
- Flexible working hours
Cons
- Odd working hours as initially you might have to host shows at 4 am in the morning or at midnight
- Might feel lonely at times as you have to operate from a small sound-proof room with studio equipments as your companion.
Types of Radio Jockey
There are many different types of radio jockeys (RJs), but some of the most common include:
- Music RJs:Â These RJs play music and provide commentary on the songs they play. They may also interview artists and bands, and talk about music news and trends.
- Talk RJs:Â These RJs talk about a variety of topics, including current events, politics, sports, and entertainment. They may also interview guests and experts.
- News RJs:Â These RJs read news stories and provide analysis and commentary. They may also interview newsmakers and experts.
- Sports RJs:Â These RJs talk about sports, including game coverage, player interviews, and sports news and analysis.
- Specialty RJs:Â These RJs specialize in a particular area, such as comedy, music, or talk radio. They may also host shows that are targeted at a specific audience, such as children or seniors.
Radio Jockey Salary
As a fresher in the field, you can expect to earn about Rs 10,000. However, as an RJ’s popularity soars, so does his salary. Recognition with the audience and a knack for communicating will help one rise rather quickly in this field.
Radio Jockey Institutes/Colleges
Although, there are hardly any specialised radio jockey courses, you could look at All India Radio as a good training ground.
AIR holds auditions every three months and selected RJs are given training for two months and introduced to audio technology. If you are interested in the field, this can be a great start to a booming career.
A few popular RJs have also started their own training schools that offer RJ courses that land you terrific RJ jobs.
A degree in any field is a pre-requisite. A number of institutes also offer courses in communication and broadcasting which can last from two months up to a year.
There are also some professional crash courses in voice overs and mixing that you could take up.
Short-term workshops in diction, creative thinking and music appreciation can also give you a head-start.
Jamia Millia Islamia University
Maulana Mohammed Ali Jauhar Marg
New Delhi -110 025
Phone: +91 11 2698 7285, +91 11 2698 6812, +91 11 2698 6813
Fax: +91 11 2698 6811
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.ajkmcrc.org
JNU new campus,
Aruna Asif Ali Marg,
New Delhi – 110067, India.
Phone: 91-011-26741268, 26742920/60
Fax: 91-011-26741268
E-mail: [email protected]
Website:Â www.iimc.nic.in
New Delhi
Contact information:
Amity Campus, Sector 44
Noida- 201303.
Phone: 26569050, 2653047
Website: www.amity.edu
Marwah Studios Complex
FC-14/15, Film City, Sector-16A
NOIDA-201301
Uttar PradeshPhone: 95120-2515254, 2515255, 2515256.
Fax: 95120-2515246.
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.aaft.com
1001-1005,
Ansal Tower,
38, Nehru Place ,
New Delhi 110019
Phone No: 011-41617053/4/5/6, 9818479333
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.wiganindia.org
Kasturba Gandhi Marg,
New Delhi-110001
Phone: 23389942
Website: : www.bvbdelhi.org
University Road, Delhi 110 00
Phone South Campus: 011-24119832
Phone North Campus: 011-2766709, 27667011, 27667190
Fax: 011-27667049
Website: www.du.ac.in
Balaji Estate,
Guru Ravi Das Marg, Kalkaji, New Delhi 110019
Ph 26225901-06
CSKM Educational,
complex, Satbari, Mehrauli
New Delhi -110030,Phone: 26805090, 26804210
www.empiindia.com
(W),Khel Gaon Marg,
New Delhi-110017
Phone: 26494881, 26490061
Jai Singh Road, New Delhi-110001
Telephone: 0091-11-23361915, 3746668
Fax: 0091-11-23746035
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.newdelhiymca.org
Contact Information:Lajpat Nagar- IV, New Delhi – 110024
Phones (Office): 26294833, 26294836, 26482298
Fax No. : 011-26474425
E-mail: [email protected]
www.polytechnic-sdpw.com
Contact Information:
Sir Aurobindo Marg, Near IIT,New Delhi 110016,
Phone: 26524798, 26567863
International Institute of Mass Media B-50,
South Extension – I,New Delhi – 110049
Phone: 011-2465 4512, 2465 4514, 2462 6660
Fax: 011-2462 6670
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.iimmdelhi.com
Press Corner,Manipal – 576 104(Karnataka)
Phone: 91 820 2571901/03
Fax: +91 820 2571902
E-mail:[email protected]
Website:www.manipal.edu/mic
Mass Communication Institutes/Colleges In Major Cities
Mass Communication Institutes/Colleges In Various States
FAQS
Radio jockey (RJ) is a person who hosts a radio show. RJs play music, talk about current events, interview guests, and provide commentary and analysis. They are responsible for entertaining and informing listeners, and for building a relationship with their audience.
There is no one definitive answer to the question of who is India’s No. 1 RJ, as there are many talented and popular RJs working in the country today. However, some of the most well-known and respected RJs in India include:
- RJ Malishka (Red FM)
- RJ Sayema (Mirchi FM)
- RJ Raunac (93.5 Red FM)
- Neelesh Misra (Mirchi FM)
- RJ Mirchi Vashishth (Mirchi FM)
The salary of a radio jockey (RJ) in India varies depending on a number of factors, including the RJ’s experience, skills, and the company they work for. However, the average salary for an RJ in India is around ₹3.1 lakhs per annum.
The job of a radio jockey (RJ) is to host a radio show and entertain and inform listeners. RJs play music, talk about current events, interview guests, and provide commentary and analysis. They are responsible for creating a positive and engaging experience for listeners, and for building a relationship with their audience.
The main difference between a radio jockey (RJ) and a disc jockey (DJ) is that an RJ hosts a radio show, while a DJ plays music at live events.
RJs are responsible for selecting and playing music for their show, talking about current events, interviewing guests, and providing commentary and analysis. They are essentially the on-air personality of a radio station, and they are responsible for creating a positive and engaging experience for listeners.
Whether or not RJ is a good career for you depends on your interests, skills, and goals. If you have a passion for radio, a knack for communication, and the ability to connect with an audience, then RJ could be a rewarding career choice.
Here are some of the pros and cons of being an RJ:
Pros:
- Creative and rewarding work
- Flexible work schedule
- Good earning potential
- Opportunities for advancement
Cons:
- Competitive field
- Long hours
- Unstable workload
- Public scrutiny
Yes, you can be an RJ after 12th. There is no formal education required to become an RJ, but there are a few courses that can be helpful. These courses can teach you about the radio industry, how to produce and present shows, and how to use radio equipment.
There is no minimum age to become a radio jockey (RJ) in India. However, most radio stations prefer to hire individuals who are at least 18 years of age. This is because RJs are often responsible for handling mature content, such as news and current events. Additionally, RJs may need to work long hours and irregular shifts, which can be challenging for younger individuals.
There are no strict educational requirements, but a bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication, Journalism, or related fields can be beneficial.
Yes, starting as an intern or in an entry-level position at a radio station can be a way to gain experience.
Articles Updates:
19/09/2023: Content update, Interlinking
19/09/2023: Add Faq and infographic
