In the dynamic landscape of the public media, on-air personalities play a crucial role in captivating audiences and driving success for broadcasters. Managing creative employees, particularly on-air personalities, requires a unique set of skills that go beyond traditional management approaches.
Understanding the Creative Mindset:
Creative individuals, including on-air personalities, often thrive in environments that encourage and celebrate innovation. Unlike more conventional roles, the nature of creative work involves a level of unpredictability and non-linear thinking. Managers must acknowledge and appreciate the unique mindset of creative employees to foster an atmosphere that encourages their best work.
Creating a Supportive Environment:
A key aspect of managing on-air personalities is creating a supportive and collaborative work environment. Creative individuals tend to flourish when they feel their ideas are valued and their contributions acknowledged. Managers should establish an open line of communication, providing a platform for on-air personalities to express their thoughts and ideas freely. Regular feedback sessions can be instrumental in building trust and ensuring that creative employees feel heard and understood.
Balancing Structure and Freedom:
While creativity thrives on freedom, it is crucial to strike a balance between providing autonomy and establishing a certain level of structure. Too much rigidity can stifle creativity, while too much freedom may lead to a lack of focus. Managers must find the sweet spot, offering guidelines and objectives while allowing on-air personalities the flexibility to explore their creative instincts. This delicate balance ensures that creativity is channeled effectively toward organizational goals.
Encouraging Risk-Taking:
Creativity often involves taking risks and stepping outside the comfort zone. Managers should foster a culture that encourages calculated risk-taking, assuring on-air personalities that experimentation is not only allowed but also celebrated. Recognizing that not every creative endeavor will be a resounding success is essential; what matters is the willingness to push boundaries and explore new ideas.
Providing Professional Development Opportunities:
Investing in the professional development of on-air personalities is a critical aspect of effective management. Creative individuals are often motivated by opportunities for growth and learning. Managers should identify and support relevant training, workshops, and mentorship programs to help on-air personalities enhance their skills and stay at the forefront of industry trends. This not only benefits the individuals but also contributes to the overall success of the organization.
Handling Creative Differences:
In a team of on-air personalities, creative differences are inevitable. Effective managers understand the importance of mediating conflicts while preserving the creative energy within the team. Encouraging open dialogue and facilitating constructive discussions can help resolve conflicts and lead to innovative solutions. It’s crucial for managers to act as mediators, ensuring that creative disagreements do not escalate into interpersonal issues that can hinder collaboration.
Recognizing and Celebrating Success:
Acknowledging and celebrating the successes of on-air personalities is a vital aspect of managing creative individuals. Whether it’s a groundbreaking show, an innovative segment, or positive audience feedback, recognizing achievements boosts morale and motivates creative employees. Publicly acknowledging their contributions reinforces their value within the organization and fosters a sense of pride and accomplishment.
Managing creative employees, especially on-air personalities, requires a nuanced approach that balances freedom with structure, encourages risk-taking, and promotes professional development. Successful management in the realm of creativity involves understanding the unique mindset of creative individuals, creating a supportive environment, and navigating creative differences with finesse. By embracing these strategies, organizations can harness the full potential of their on-air personalities, driving innovation and success in the competitive media and entertainment landscape.
Dave Edwards managed WUWM Milwaukee Public Radio for more than 30 years and served as Chair of the NPR Board of Directors. He now advises public media stations and professionals. Find out more HERE.
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