A lot of daily tasks, personalities that demand attention, pressure from the sales manager to help close a big deal, a major league partner that feels the personalities aren't being fair about the way the team is playing, a limited amount of time and high expectations from upper management...sound fmailiar? For a Sports Radio PD there are always too many tasks and there never is enough time. It is very easy to let time and tasks manage you rather than vise versa. In most cases, what happens is the emphasis goes on the details and not the big picture. Day to day it may not be noticeable, then all of the sudden comes the question, ‘how did that happen?’ The bigger picture is identifying and understanding the responsibility of a Sports Radio PD.

A good Sports Radio PD can tackle that responsibility by doing five things well. First, step back and realize what his job is; defining and focusing the station; making it as strong as possible using all the resources provided. Wishing for more is great but getting the most from what you have is reality. A good Sports Radio PD does not become overly focused or obsessed with tasks. He has the ability to see how the tasks fit into the bigger picture.

Second, a good Sports Radio PD can combine the skills of coach, a motivator, a disciplinarian and a manager. It is the same as a head coach knowing when to encourage and support a player or when to get in his face for not being in the game.

Third, which is tied closely with the second skill. A good Sports Radio PD understands the dynamics of people. He knows how to earn respect and give it. He also recognizes people need to feel they are contributing and have ownership of the station. This includes the air talent, producers, phone screener and board ops as well as the internal station staff, the listeners and the advertisers.

Number four, a Sports Radio PD must be a visionary. He must use the power of observation and translate what is happening in the real world into the sound of the station. While most people are put in institutions for it, a good Sports Radio PD hears things in his head ...two personalities together to create a great show, a promo, a bit, a contest, a liner. He/she hears how it will translate before it goes on the air. He/she has the ability to keep the station fresh and engaging while maintaining a focus and definition.

Oh, and number five, have fun!