How to always stay on top of your game as an announcer?

Being a radio host is a massive responsibility as you are the “voice of reason” to your listeners. It can be extremely intimidating to someone just starting, even if they know how to work the bells and whistles of the board. You cannot afford to make any mistakes because it's live and you only have one shot at it. Not to sweat as after hosting on 96.9 Radio Humber for 4 months, I have gathered the best ways to stay on top of your game.

1. Always Expect the Unexpected

Keep those fingers at the ready at all times

Anything can go wrong at any moment, so it's crucial to have your fingers ready. What I mean by this is to treat the board like a piano. Keep your hands ready by the buttons once a song or segment is about to end and make sure your levels are in check. The quicker you can memorize the board with your fingers, the better the show will flow as you can then take your eyes elsewhere and prepare for the next talk break.

2. Rehearse Rehearse Rehearse!

I cannot stress enough how easy it is to go through a talk break once you rehearse. It's encouraged in the studio, so don't feel embarrassed. Keep those vocals warm by saying what you plan to say out loud as you can never be fully prepped. Part of rehearsing is to make your script easy to read, laid out with big text, and use a conversational tone, which means using words and phrases that you would typically say to your friends and family, but remember to keep it PG. 

3. Stay Updated with Current Events

Checking out the Oscars and taking down some notes

One of the worst things that can happen on air is not knowing what's going on in entertainment. Not only is it good to stay up to date with what is going on in the world but you can turn them into bits for radio giving you more unique content to talk about as when it comes to being an annoucer, you want to give your personal opinions and takes on topics and by doing that, it allows you to be very unique. Whether it’s music, sports, or social issues, listeners appreciate hosts who can speak confidently about what’s happening in the world. Check out entertainment websites or even the YouTube trending tab and if something major breaks during your show, be ready to acknowledge it.

Meet my friends! Water, Water, and half empty Water Bottle :P

4. Drink lots of water

Part of rehearsing and something that can go wrong is if you sound out of tune or a nasty cough comes out in the middle of you talking! It’s the worst feeling in the world knowing that you choked on air and it is a nightmare for all announcers, so the question is, how do you prevent that? Drinking water is the answer! A study from the Voice Study Centre recommends drinking about 6-8 cups to keep yourself hydrated throughout the show, as the more you talk, the more your throat will be dry, and water is the best and only beverage you should have during your show. I wouldn't recommend anything with sugar while being on air, like energy drinks or potentially coffee, during your show as they just are not as effective as classic H2O. Bring at least 2 to 3 bottles to your shift and try to drink as much water between talk breaks.

Being a great announcer isn’t just about having a good voice, it’s about staying sharp, prepared, and adaptable. Radio is unpredictable, and the best hosts are the ones who embrace the unexpected, rehearse their delivery, stay informed, and take care of their voice. By keeping these habits in check, you’ll not only maintain your professionalism but also build confidence in your abilities. Stay on top of your game, and you’ll always be on top of your game! If you want to check out more of my journey on radio and being an announcer, you can follow me on Instagram, Threads, Facebook, TikTok, and subscribe to me on YouTube all under the name radioactiverahul.