N/T Program Directors: For the month of July we’ll cover the “E” factors.

How’s the E-factor (Entertainment) in each of talk shows?

Ø Now more than ever, a talk show must be BOTH informative and entertaining. Does the host have a sense of humor? Do you find yourself occasionally chuckling when you listen? The host that is habitually angry can wear thin after awhile. Ø What is the host doing to keep an element of surprise in each show? The listener expects to hear their favorite host tell them something they don’t already know about the issue, topic or event. Are you pleasantly surprised when you monitor?

Ø Is the host using the 24/24 test for every show? Is the host/producer identifying the issues of the past 24 hours and those coming up in the next 24 that will push the emotional hot buttons of the listeners?

Ø Is the host avoiding “Evergreen” programming? See above. If the show’s content does not meet the 24/24 test, the show can be aired next week, next month. It’s a show that can be placed in moth balls. It’s simply not relevant.

Ø Is the host/producer looking lots of interesting audio clips to add color when churning topics… everyday? Is the host reading quotes or airing the actual news clips? Which sounds most interesting to your ear? Being read to or listening to the actual news clip that provides the attitude, tone and personality of the person making the statement.

Ø What about “Ear Candy”? Is the host/producer effectively using music, song lyrics, sound effects, etc to add sizzle to the show?

Ø What about the host’s interaction with the callers? Is it colorful? Good point-counter point? Exciting? Taking lots of calls vs. long boring monologues?

Ø Are the Screening guidelines being followed? Is the screener able to pick the hit callers consistently? The “sound” of the caller should match the target demo of the show. Are the callers up, bright, articulate, and colorful?

Ø How about show pace? Pump up the volume. Keep the show moving forward at a fast clip.

Ø Does the host do an outstanding job of staging? Setting up and churning a topic in a way that gets the listener EMOTIONALLY INVOLVED is part of the staging that brings the entertainment factor in play.

Coming in August - PD: Summer NT Tune-Up Part Two Checking your talk shows’ “I” and “T” Factors

- Michael Packer - Packer Smart Talk Tips - July 2009

PS Need to bring new members of your staff up to speed quickly on the basic formatics of talk radio? Want to give your pros a quick review? Go to http://packersmarttalk.com