Television Presenter Job Guide: How to Become a TV Presenter

A television presenter, also known as a television host or television personality, is an on-camera professional who hosts a TV show, providing commentary on a specific subject or general topics.

There are many subgroups of television presenters, including sports commentators, competition show judges, and entertainment show hosts. Notable TV presenters include news anchor Robin Roberts, talk show host David Letterman, reality show host RuPaul, sports commentator Bob Costas, and entertainment host Ryan Seacrest.

A presenter’s responsibilities will vary depending on the specific type of television show they work for and their level of expertise. Some general TV presenter responsibilities include:

• Collaborating with the crew: Like many other entertainment industry professionals, TV presenters collaborate on-set with a show’s crew, including producers, directors, and camera operators.
• Conveying on-camera personality: A successful TV presenter will learn to project a broadly appealing persona inflected with their own unique charisma.
• Dispensing information: TV presenters need to clearly and succinctly convey information to a broad audience, whether they are expressing their point of view or summarizing factual information about a specific topic.
• Interviewing guests: TV presenters typically conduct interviews with a wide variety of guests, from experts to celebrities.
• Introducing segments: Certain show formats—like variety shows, award shows, or talk shows—rely on the TV presenter to connect various segments within a single episode, providing a sense of continuity.
• Script work: It’s helpful for a TV presenter to be familiar with writing because they need to help write, edit, and rehearse their own scripts.

Television presenters typically need the following skills to excel at their jobs.

• Flexibility: Most television presenters work irregular hours and need to be available to work whenever their production calls for it.
• Interviewing prowess: A television presenter should possess sophisticated interviewing skills to engage with guests comfortably and thoughtfully.
  
• On-camera experience: On-air talent must feel confident and relaxed on camera, so they appear composed to the audience when performing their hosting duties.
• Reading and listening skills: Television presenters must be comfortable reading fluently from a teleprompter. In some cases, they also need to simultaneously listen for important information in their earpiece and make on-the-fly adjustments to their lines.
• Subject expertise: Most television presenters work for a show focused on a certain subject, meaning they must be well-informed on that topic. For example, a football announcer must be an expert in all aspects of the sport, a newscaster must be up to date on current events, and a game show host must memorize all the rules of the game.
• Strong communication: Since a television presenter’s job is to convey information to an audience, superb public speaking and communication skills are huge assets.

Becoming a presenter on a television program might seem like a difficult task, but following these steps will put you on the right path.

1. 1. Obtain a college degree. A bachelor’s degree in media production, broadcast journalism, or communications will provide you with a helpful knowledge base for entertainment industry jobs. Consider minoring in theater to gain extra performing experience, since television presenters must be comfortable in the spotlight.
2. 2. Gain experience on campus. Some high schools and colleges have their own on-campus television stations, allowing students to create and host their own shows. Working on campus is a fantastic way to familiarize yourself with the television production process, gain on-camera experience, and network with like-minded people.
3. 3. Look for entry-level jobs. Entry-level positions, like an intern or an assistant, are great stepping stones to break into the entertainment industry. Working at a television studio gives you valuable hands-on work experience and skills, helping you climb the ladder to becoming a presenter. Try to build relationships with those in charge of hiring for your dream job, and ask them questions about the role.
4. 4. Produce your own showreel. Create a video showreel—which is akin to a video resume showcasing your on-air experience, skills, and personality—to submit yourself to different television presenter jobs. If you don’t have much experience, consider starting an internet show to cultivate your on-camera style and gain material for your reel.
5. 5. Become an expert in a niche subject. Television presenters like Bill Nye and Neil Degrasse Tyson aren't successful solely because of their on-air talent. They're both brilliant scientists with the experience and knowledge required to host science-related TV shows. Think of a subject you love, and gain the credentials that make you an expert in that subject.
6. 6. Network to find jobs. Try looking for television host jobs the traditional way, but know that employers rarely publicly advertise these highly sought-after positions. Network with your industry contacts and politely inquire about potential opportunities to increase your chances of success. Maintain your relationships from college, internships, or work experience programs so that when a presenter job opens up, one of your contacts can recommend you for the position.

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