Updated December 2023
You may have heard that traditional media is going the way of the dinosaurs. After all, the way we consume content now is vastly different than it was a couple of decades ago.
With all the changes that are impacting the industry, is it still worth pursuing a broadcasting career?
The truth is there are actually more ways to make a living in this field now than ever before.
But it's important to understand the new realities of the media industry and what to expect if you're thinking about entering it.
In this post, we give an overview of current trends that are affecting the broadcasting communications sector in Canada. We also provide important information on job options, employment outlooks, key skills, and salaries.
Explore the new world of broadcast media. Find out what this field is all about and whether it's a good fit for you.
Major TRENDS IN BROADCASTING AND COMMUNICATIONS
According to a study by eMarketer, Canadians spend more than 10 hours a day with various forms of media.
The study found that while traditional TV and radio are declining somewhat, people are still spending four and a half hours a day on those formats.
But the real story is how broadcasting is evolving and expanding as digital media takes hold.
Aspiring broadcasters aren't limited to traditional TV and radio networks anymore.
The rise of massive independent content producers like Netflix and Amazon is creating new opportunities for writers, producers, camera operators, video editors, investigative journalists, documentary filmmakers, and more.
Plus, many people are finding success as broadcasting entrepreneurs.
Did you know there are currently well over five million podcasts available, with over 464 million people tuning in every day?
The new world of broadcast media is bigger and more profitable than ever. Whether you want to anchor the news or tell your own stories, the sky's the limit.
BROADCASTING CAREER OPTIONS
A career in broadcasting offers a wide variety of job options on camera, behind the scenes, and online.
This is a big industry. There are career paths in traditional media, online content production, marketing, and PR--and positions that blend all of the above.
Here are a few possible roles you could pursue:
- Copywriter
- On-air announcer
- Camera operator
- News reporter
- Audio producer
- Podcast host
- Videographer
- Multimedia editor
- Digital content producer
Keep in mind that most broadcasting communications jobs combine aspects of a few different roles.
Traditional reporter jobs now include digital content production and social media promotion. Copywriters might find themselves producing everything from podcast scripts to Facebook ads.
What does this mean for you and other industry newcomers? It means you need a diverse set of media skills, which you can combine and apply to any job you get.
WHAT'S THE broadcasting JOB OUTLOOK LIKE?
Data from the Government of Canada Job Bank reveals that between 2022 and 2031, around 4,500 jobs are expected to open up across the country for announcers and other broadcasters.
And journalists are expected to see good to very good demand in Manitoba and Quebec.
The industry is continually looking for fresh talent. Candidates with quality broadcasting and communications training can find plenty of ways to utilize their skills.
As noted above, the key is versatility. Many broadcasting jobs will expect you to work across a range of media. For instance, a radio host may also produce a podcast and maintain a blog.
Anyone who wants a career in media needs to understand how all the different channels work together. How do people consume content across different platforms?
You also need to be able to adapt as media trends and distribution channels emerge and evolve.
So don't get so focused on one area that you are unwilling to explore others. The more diverse your skills, the more opportunities will come your way.
HOW MUCH DOES A BROADCASTING CAREER PAY?
The actual amount you make will depend on the specific role you get and the company you work for. But generally speaking, careers in this field offer solid earning potential.
According to the Job Bank, the national median salary for announcers and other broadcasters is roughly $63,000. Top earners can make over $159,000.
The median salary for journalists is around $62,000. For broadcast technicians, it's about $79,000.
Earnings vary widely among self-broadcasters like podcasters and YouTubers. But this can be a lucrative area.
According to Forbes, the highest-paid YouTube creators make upwards of $15 million!
ADVICE FOR NEWCOMERS to the media industry
The best way to get your foot in the door is to complete a quality broadcasting program that includes an internship.
A good program will help you learn and blend technical skills in both traditional and online media.
Winnipeg broadcasting veteran Bev Edmondson developed the broadcasting program at Herzing College to reflect the changing media landscape. Courses cover everything from TV and radio to public relations, podcasting, social media, and digital content production.
"In addition to writing for the ear, our broadcasting students will learn to write for the eye—for digital audiences. We're also putting more emphasis on quick video roll-out. For example, how to shoot video with your phone that requires little editing."
And once you've completed your training, finding the job you want is all about determination.
Herzing graduate Austin Siragusa secured his first broadcasting job while he was still in the program. He worked as a sports reporter and now handles digital content production for the Manitoba Moose.
He has some words of wisdom for anyone just starting out in the industry: "No matter what happens, you need to stay positive, keep pushing, and be persistent. Also, it's really important to be open-minded and flexible," he advises.
"Be willing to explore different parts of the broadcasting business. I started in radio, then moved to TV, and now a good chunk of the content I'm creating is for social media. You never know where this career will take you! Be open to every opportunity that comes your way."
Explore Broadcasting and media communications Training
Herzing College offers a totally unique Broadcasting and Media Communications diploma.
Training is 12 months long and includes a six-week internship at a station or media outlet. Students get hands-on training in announcing, writing, editing, and content production for radio, TV, and digital media.
Want to learn more? Click below to explore courses and careers and chat live with an admissions advisor. We're here to help!
