Work Environment
This occupation is typically found in the following Career Sector(s):
Videos on the Web
- Broadcasting - Presenter- from: Youtube Search
Most commonly reported Work Activities
- Interacting With Computers Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
- Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
- Getting Information Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
- Performing for or Working Directly with the Public Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
- Processing Information Compiling, coding, categorising, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
- Documenting/Recording Information Entering, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
- Making Decisions and Solving Problems Analysing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
- Thinking Creatively Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
- Organising, Planning, and Prioritising Work Developing specific goals and plans to prioritise, organise, and accomplish your work.
- Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events Identifying information by categorising, estimating, recognising differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Working Life
There are a number of broadcasting presentation jobs in radio and television, including programme presenters, continuity announcers and newsreaders.
Presenters keep shows and programmes running by introducing guests and performers, and providing a link between each part of the programme. Most Radio shows are ‘live’ and in TV, most are pre-recorded. But there are of course pre-recorded radio and live TV shows as well!
A presenter's style reflects their personality and is in keeping with the image that the producer wants for the programme. Some presenters entertain by telling jokes and stories while others give an informative delivery in a more serious manner. Some presenters read from 'autocues' or learn a script, others need to be able to perform without formal preparation.
Continuity announcers provide the vocal link between programmes. They inform the watching or listening audience of what is coming on in the future. They describe changes to programmes and sometimes interrupt broadcasts with urgent news or apologies for faults.
Continuity announcers are usually 'live' on air. Announcers are given an exact amount of time to fill between items, which could change at short notice. Therefore, they must have extra material to fill any gaps.
Newsreaders present news programmes and bulletins, reading from a script or an autocue system. They introduce pre-recorded news stories and live reports from journalists on location. Newsreaders are also involved in researching, writing and editing scripts.
Most commonly reported Work Tasks
- Operate control consoles.
- Record commercials for later broadcast.
- Announce musical selections, station breaks, commercials, or public service information, and accept requests from listening audience.
- Study background information to prepare for programmes or interviews.
- Read news flashes to inform audiences of important events.
- Identify stations, and introduce or close shows, ad-libbing or using memorised or read scripts.
- Prepare and deliver news, sports, or weather reports, gathering and rewriting material so that it will convey required information and fit specific time slots.
- Select program content, in conjunction with producers and assistants, based on factors such as program specialties, audience tastes, or requests from the public.
- Comment on music and other matters, such as weather or traffic conditions.
- Develop story lines for broadcasts.
Qualities - Broadcasting - Presenter
You will need confidence and clear speech. The ability to think and react quickly is vital, especially when broadcasting 'live'. Concentration is important as you may be running a show while listening to instructions from the control room and watching signals from the floor manager. Some presenters require specialist knowledge.
You should enjoy working with other people such as the production team and participants in the programme. Television presenters need to be comfortable and natural in front of the camera; radio presenters need to sound at ease.
Interests - Broadcasting - Presenter
This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:
Linguistic
The Linguistic's interests are usually focused on ideas and information exchange. They tend to like reading a lot, and enjoy discussion about what has been said. Some will want to write about their own ideas and may follow a path towards journalism, story writing or editing. Others will develop skills in other languages, perhaps finding work as a translator or interpreter. Most Linguistic types will enjoy the opportunity to teach or instruct people in a topic they are interested in.
Enterprising
Enterprising people like situations that involve using resources for personal or corporate economic gain. Such people may have an opportunistic frame of mind, and are drawn to commerce, trade and making deals. Some pursue sales and marketing occupations. Many will eventually end up owning their own business, or in management roles in larger organisations. They tend to be very goal-oriented and work best when focused on a target. Some have an entrepreneurial inclination.
Social
The Social person's interests focus on interacting with the people in their environment. In all cases, the Social person enjoys the personal contact with other people in preference to the impersonal dealings with things, data and ideas found in other groups.
Many will seek out positions where there is direct contact with the public in some advisory role, whether a receptionist or a counsellor. Social people are motivated by an interest in different types of people and like diversity in their work environments. Many are drawn towards careers in the caring professions and social welfare area, whilst others prefer teaching and other 'informing' roles.
Entry / Progression - Broadcasting - Presenter
Although it is not always necessary, most broadcasting presenters have some form of formal training in media. The most common course subjects include media, communication and journalism.
Presenting is a very popular career and thereby also highly competitive. Many presenters have spent years working in supporting roles in radio and television, such as researching, producing and writing scripts and online content. Working in the sector, in any role, will give important network and contacts which may eventually lead to the dream job.
There are many pathways into broadcasting & presenting, these can be in standard media: TV/ Radio, or in new media over social media streaming & sharing platforms. Developing our skills, practice, and network are key.
Sample Education and Training Pathways
A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that may be useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research.
Further Education (FET)
Further Education & Training (FET) Courses are delivered by local ETBs, ranging in duration from several weeks up to 20 months. Courses are designed to meet the labour market needs and often include a large element of work experience.
Example search terms include: broadcasting, production.
Search for FET Courses
PLC Courses (FET)
PLC courses are full-time courses, one or two years duration, with awards at Level 5 and 6 on the NFQ. They are offered nationally in Schools and Colleges of Further Education.
Example search terms include: theatrical performance, production, audio, visual, journalism, broadcasting, new media, digital media, acting, TV presenting, film production.
Search for PLC Courses
Higher Education CAO (Undergraduate)
Higher Education courses at Levels 6 to 8 on the NFQ, delivered in Universities and Technological Universities & Institutes. Courses run from 2 – 5 years and places are allocated on a points-based system, processed by the Central Application Office.
Example search terms include: creative broadcasting and production, film and broadcasting, digital media.
Search for CAO Courses
Higher Education (Postgraduate)
Postgraduate courses are courses at Levels 9 and 10 on the NFQ and usually last 1 – 2 years full time, or longer if a PhD or part time. Entrants typically require an undergraduate award (Level 8).
Example search terms include: arts, digital media, production, broadcasting, TV, radio, media, journalism.
Search for Postgraduate Courses
Professional Development
Professional development (CPD) courses are specialised training, formal education, or advanced professional learning that improves skills, professional knowledge, competency, and overall effectiveness in the professional world.
Irish Film & Television Network
Check the Useful Contacts tab on this page to see if there are any professional bodies listed who may provide training related to this career.
Pay & Salary - Broadcasting - Presenter
Salary Range (thousands per year)* €28k - €500k
Salaries vary enormously, from very low wages for entry level positions, especially on regional stations, all the way up to significant salaries on offer to the tiny pool of top presenters.
Salaries vary based on employer, location, experience, duties, and role.
Data Source(s):
RTE/ Gov.ie
Last Updated: July, 2024
Labour Market Updates - Broadcasting - Presenter
Note: The following information relates to occupations that include: Artists; Authors; writers; translators; Actors; entertainers; presenters; Dancers; choreographers; Musicians Arts officers; producers; directors; Photographers; audio-visual and broadcasting equipment operators; Graphic designers Product; clothing and related designers.
This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2023).
Employment grew strongly between 2021 and 2022, with an additional 7,300 persons employed. As illustrated in the CSO Census data below, employment is spread across a number of roles; since 2016, the strongest growth, in absolute terms, was for graphic designers and authors, writers and translators.
New employment permits issued for this occupation in 2022 were primarily for film/TV and animation/visual effects (VFX) roles but also for linguistics experts in the ICT sector. There was also a high volume of recent job hires in line with the recent employment increase. The data does not point to overall issues with recruitment for these roles.
Useful Contacts - Broadcasting - Presenter
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Radio Telefis Eireann (RTE)
