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    • Unfiltered: Women in radio address the industry anonymously
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    Unfiltered: Women in radio address the industry anonymously

    Online Niel Posted on

    Unfiltered: Women in radio address the industry anonymously

    (By John Shomby) About a month ago, we reached out to 22 women of various ages in programming and on-air positions to see how they feel about opportunities and the workplace environment in today’s radio world. I have assured everyone that these responses will be submitted anonymously so that I can get clear, unfiltered answers…

    Even more than in me previous PD questionnaireanonymity was such an intense concern for all 22 that caught my attention.

    Here’s what they said:

    DO YOU THINK THERE ARE ENOUGH OPPORTUNITIES FOR WOMEN TO ADVANCE IN PROGRAMMING POSITIONS? IF NOT, WHAT ARE THE PRIMARY FACTORS PREVENTING THOSE OPPORTUNITIES?

    Over 75% of the group agreed that there are more opportunities now, but EVERY statement was qualified. A definite dose of reality from one: “Honestly, I don’t think there’s anything that stands in the way of women’s advancement… you have to grind it out and want it. But I always have Reba’s voice in my head: “You gotta work twice as hard as the boys.”

    Several noted that consolidation limits opportunities for advancement:

    “We are cutting corners left and right in the industry, including the opportunity to propel young female talent. And with programmers covering multiple positions or markets, I think there are fewer jobs available for both men and women.”

    More than a few cite the fact that business has always favored and continues to favor men. One puts the onus on management for training:

    “It’s been a boys’ club for a long time, which means a history of women not having as many opportunities to gain experience. Change the narrative – ask the women you work with what their future goals are and help them get there. Train them.”

    Some very clear and troubling comments about men feeling threatened by a woman in leadership.

    “Unfortunately, there are not enough men in these decision-making roles who can stand up to strong women. In my experience, it’s not that they think a woman can’t do the job, it’s that they’re almost threatened by a woman in the role. Heaven forbid she be great at it and get ahead of you.”

    More revealing to some is an environment where women are not taken seriously in their leadership roles.

    “It’s much more difficult in this industry right now to be a woman in a management role. It is a delicate dance that only a few have mastered. If you’re stern and stand your ground, you’re seen as a… you know what. If you are understanding and kind, you are seen as weak. I also think there’s an expectation that men should hold some of these roles, because that’s how it’s always been. Whether they admit it or not, I think a lot of men are uncomfortable being managed by women in the workplace.”

    HAVE YOU OBSERVED SIGNIFICANT CHANGES IN THE WORKPLACE FOR WOMEN AND DO YOU THINK THESE CHANGES HAD A POSITIVE OR NEGATIVE IMPACT?

    Although the entire group feels that the environment is improving, there is still much room for improvement. Their answers highlight industry programs that create opportunities for them.

    “All of these scholarships, mentorship programs and experiences are fantastic resources for women in radio. Even if your company or management doesn’t give you that support, you can find it externally to further your career.”

    Many illustrate how women support each other in the industry.

    “There are a lot of programs now offered to promote women… Rising Through The Ranks… Women in Radio… Women in Radio Facebook Groups… companies offer support groups and all of these things help us find a voice and grow in the industry.”

    “I remember when I was appointed PD, I had women in the industry reach out and congratulate me, whom I had never met. They were so happy to see a woman getting a leadership role.”

    This is where the “room for improvement” comment hits home.

    “Boys’ Club” is another thing. When I see a picture of an event where heads of programming for radio companies are gathered, I see very few women. I see artists visiting markets and playing golf with male programmers. I sit at dinners where I might be the only female programmer at the table. I see women getting comments about their looks before compliments on their brains or skills. I hope that in time there will be a change in my experience.”

    It highlights how this environment makes women invisible in some cases:

    “The first two corporate meetings I attended when I was hired at a new company, I was the only female program director on staff at the time. The VP of programming always started PD calls with “Good afternoon, gentlemen.” It might seem insignificant, but if you can’t even recognize that it’s not just ‘gentlemen’ on an internal call, you certainly won’t be looking to promote or support a female staff member when you forget you have one!”

    Consider these quotes and examine how your own station environment works. Everyone should and hopefully will have a seat at the proverbial table.

    Based in Nashville, TN, John Shomby is the owner and CEO The country’s radio coach. He focuses on coaching and mentoring artists, radio programmers and live talent to help them grow and develop within the radio station and industry. Contact John at (email protected) and 757-323-1460. Read John’s Radio Ink archives Here.

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