Broadcasting Researcher

Broadcasting researchers collect, verify and prepare information for productions such as documentaries, quiz shows, music programmes and chat shows on TV and radio. Drama productions, films and soaps also need researchers to check the accuracy of some of their content. Television researchers may work on a wide range of programmes or specialise in one subject area, searching library, film and video records, looking out for photographs or finding music clips. They may also have to search for suitable locations for filming, find audiences for live shows or select participants for a discussion.

Film researchers tend to be specialists in either picture or factual research. Picture researchers examine archives for film, videos or photographic material to be used in documentaries. Factual researchers check such things as historical accuracy of the speech and costumes in a period drama.

Broadcasting research involves organising, planning and researching everything that will happen during a programme or film, with the researcher contributing ideas, contacts and sources to the process. The job is often seen as an apprenticeship for the producer role and a chance for ambitious broadcasting wannabees to show their potential.

Entry level
Graduates tend to be preferred but you will find that relevant work experience, personal qualities, confidence and evidence of skills can make up for the lack of a degree. Specialist knowledge and research sources may be required for specific subject areas or documentaries. For general areas, a knowledge of current affairs and the media is useful, plus evidence of lateral thinking.

If you choose to pursue the higher education route, any subject could be acceptable, although you may increase your chances by offering a subject such as English, journalism, broadcasting and media studies or history.

Making the grade
This is a very competitive profession, and you are unlikely to build a career by working for the same employer for a number of years. Most researchers are freelance and work on short contracts, although some companies offer renewable contracts.

Training courses for include those offered by Film and Television Freelance Training, which trains a small number of researchers. The training is through attachments to television and production companies, backed up with short courses. You would work towards NVQ/SVQ Level 3 in Production Research. There is an equivalent scheme run by Scottish Screen. However, most training is gained by experience on the job.

Personal qualities
You would have to be exceptionally resourceful, able to generate new ideas and have a flair for spotting a good story. Excellent written communication and interpersonal skills are essential qualities, along with organisational ability. Confidence, patience and motivation would also be important.

You must be able to work under pressure to meet challenging deadlines within budgetary constraints. To be successful in securing freelance work, you would also need to be skilled in self-management and self-promotion. IT and research skills, a knowledge of legal and ethical issues in relation to the media and a driving licence would all be essential.

Looking ahead
Competition for all advertised vacancies is fierce, which means that pre-entry work experience is vital. You should seek whatever placements you can find with the local or regional press, community radio, student union publications, archives and picture libraries. You must be prepared to network and use your contacts in the industry to secure a first position. You should also build a portfolio by keeping copies of everything you have been involved in, from newspaper articles to TV programmes. There is no fixed career ladder but the nature of the job makes it an excellent starting point if you are ambitious and passionate about broadcasting.

You would normally secure career progression by working on a variety of programmes, films and stations.

Alternative suggestions
Other possibilities might include advertising copywriter, film/video production manager, newspaper journalist, radio producer, television/film production assistant or television/radio presenter.

Take-home pay
Freelance researchers earn anything from £150 to £400 a day, while experienced or specialist researchers can earn over £30,000 a year. You would normally be paid expenses for travel, accommodation and subsistence when you spend time away from home. Sometimes overtime is paid or negotiated as part of a package.

Effects
Most researchers work long, irregular hours. Sometimes you would need to meet people or visit places outside working hours, including evenings and weekends. Deadlines can be tight, so you may work around the clock to finish a job.

A lot of information can be researched from an office, using the telephone and the internet. However, you might also travel throughout the country or even overseas on research trips - from a few days to several weeks. Some researchers work undercover for months at a time to expose wrongdoing or scandals.

The work culture is generally informal but you may feel pressured with tight deadlines to meet.

Sources of information
BBC Recruitment Services: www.bbc.co.uk/jobs
FT2 - Film and Television Freelance Training: www.ft2.org.uk
Independent Television Association: www.itv.com
Scottish Screen: www.scottishscreen.com
Skillset careers: www.skillset.org/careers

CRCI: PA