MAKING MEMORABLE MAGICAL MOMENTS

Take advantage of an opportunity and make sure you're "kissing butt, grovelling", sure fired ways to get into radio. Parts of how Richard Fidler and Steve Austin from ABC Radio made it on this medium early in their careers. Having a great mentor, as Richard said, as well as volunteering on radio, in Steve's case, also helped.

Richard Fidler

Both are interesting and in Richard's case, humorous individuals, qualities which they espouse as important factors in presenting radio. They definitely gave the 'someone you would like to chat with' vibe and stressed the importance of being good listeners, empathetic, respectful and not prosecutorial when dealing with guests and connecting to the audience. These traits lead to good radio storytelling, being human, making an emotional connection and the audience feeling involved.

Steve Austin

Steve and Richard's time slots and shows: 'Weeknights @ 7', 'Conversations' and 'Afternoons'  differ, but many of their tips to achieving those great interviews and talk-back discussions share a common thread. With those 1 on 1 interviews, the ability to make a guest feel relaxed, give them space and feel they are in a safe environment will lead to them revealing themselves. As Richard says, "Give the guest a lot of space to talk and explain themselves." Talk-back works best, according to them, when drawing the caller out and posing simple question to the listeners for ease of response. Though, Steve likes to be blunt and provocative whereas Richard sees himself as a facilitator.

The reward for both of these presenters comes in the form of the 'Memorable or Magical Moment' when a story unfolds where the guest has revealed intimate and revealing information, forgetting they are even on radio, just by letting them speak. They have then achieved the ultimate connection from guest directly to audience.

So how to give yourself the best chances of being on radio and delivering those much listened to stories; be open minded and never give up.

• Richard Fidler http://www.abc.net.au/profiles/content/s1869500.htm?site=brisbane 
• Steve Austin http://www.abc.net.au/profiles/content/s2277378.htm?site=brisbane