Job Title: Producer
Location: Charlotte
Submitted on: 08-Apr-04
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| Producer |
Great city to live in... I have network benefits/perks without having to
live in New York. Pay is above the local stations in Charlotte, but
obviously well below what we would be paid in New York (of course the
cost-of-living is much better here).
Most people wear casual (no t-shirts).
For the most part, we are focused on covering "real" news as opposed to
chasing an ambulance in local TV.
The one HUGE negative is understanding and accepting what your role is
in this organization. You must accept that this place is a news
factory and for the most part is not a place that practices
journalism. We do not cover/investigate/shoot/decide the "news" --
we "PROCESS" the news. Our entire reason for existance is to help
move tape between NBC affiliates, NBC, MSNBC, CNBC and other
international clients. For example, we've had some reporters come to
work here (to provide affiliate live shots from big stories) only to
discover that they are not able to "report." Our reporters are window-
dressing for big stories... they don't interview people. While they
may be at the scene of a big story, they have no clue what is really
going on because they are tied down to the camera location doing "live"
shots. A producer reads them wire over the phone and tells them what
soundbites have come in from affiliates or the network crews. The
reporter then does the best job they can writing a script that sounds
intelligent.
As long as you understand the limitations of this kind of business then
it's a good place to work.
It's "cool" to go to the Olympics, Political Conventions, Super Bowl,
and other big stories. So you do get some great experiences.
Understand that this is a 24-hour operation... so somebody has to work
overnights, nights, weekends and holidays.
Advancement opportunities are limited because some who were here during
the massive growing days have moved into the better positions and are
staying. A few who had stars in their eyes have moved on to bigger
network positions. Many have stayed because the working conditions
are good (not great) and so you are able to have a "life" outside of
TV. Once you get a decent schedule, you can make friends, date and
even have a family and raise kids!
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