A television host can take on many functions, such as hosting a program, reading the news, or narrating documentaries. If you feel confident and comfortable in front of a camera, presenting on television can be a great career. While there is no “set” path to becoming a presenter, having a media-related degree can help you expand the skills that are required. Once you feel ready, you can start looking for television work and auditioning to become a presenter.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Developing the Necessary Skills
Step 1. Practice your communication skills to present clearly
Presenting requires you to speak in a clear and consistent tone so that other people who see you can easily understand you. Practice having conversations with people without using filler words like "um" or "ah." If there is no one with whom you can practice a conversation, try reading aloud, as you may need to read a script or teleprinter when you are finally a presenter.
- Show genuine interest in people as you chat with them. Rather than letting a conversation fade, always find ways to keep talking for a deeper conversation.
- Practice articulating each word as you speak or read so that you are less likely to get stuck with your sentences.
Step 2. Work to interview and listen to other people
Many presenters, such as television presenters or news anchors, need to conduct interviews with people on their show. Practice asking people questions and show genuine curiosity about their answers. Do not interrupt them while they speak, as it is a lack of respect and professionalism. Listen to them carefully so you don't get confused or lost during the conversation.
- Ask questions related to people's responses so you can have a deeper conversation.
- While it is not necessary for all TV presenters to do interviews, it is a good skill to develop as it will make you more versatile and give you more job opportunities.
Step 3. Get comfortable in front of the camera
TV presenters not only interact with people on set, they also have to speak directly to the camera to interact with viewers. Install a camera at home and practice speaking directly to the lens. Imagine that the camera is another person with whom you talk and interact with it so as not to appear bored or uncomfortable.
Watch other TV presenters to see how they interact with the camera, and then try to copy their style
Tip:
take as many opportunities as you can to be in front of the camera to feel more comfortable. You can start by filming video projects for school or join an audiovisual club if your school has one.
Step 4. Be willing to improvise if things don't go according to plan
Things won't always go according to plan while you're on TV, as you may be on a live broadcast or other people may forget the script. If things don't go the way you expect, accept the new result and modify the plan accordingly. This way, you can respond well to unexpected situations and still look comfortable.
- For example, if you want to try to improvise you can ask questions that are not in the script or you can make a joke if you made a mistake.
- Look for improv classes in your area and sign up if you can. While improv classes will help you be more fun, they can also help you feel more comfortable when new situations arise.
Part 2 of 3: Earn a Media Degree
Step 1. Focus on speech and video classes if you are in high school
If you are still in school, pay close attention to classes that require you to say prayers in public and be in front of a camera. Work hard in your classes so that you can develop the knowledge of how to work with a camera and a computer. Study all you can for the courses so that you can maintain good grades.
- Join your school's audiovisual club if it has one so you can work with cameras and other multimedia devices.
- See if your school has a forensic team where you can speak and debate publicly against other students. Forensics can help you become a better presenter and speak more clearly.
- If you're not in school, you can still take online courses to practice public speaking and learn video techniques.
Step 2. Try to get a degree in journalism or media production
Go to a 2- or 4-year college and choose a degree that will help you expand your knowledge of production and journalism. Focus on classes like public speaking, film, interviewing, and research to gain knowledge in those areas. Take some time to study and finish all your assignments so that you can get the best grades you can.
- You don't have to have a degree to become a television host, but it can help increase your chances of finding a job.
- Try auditioning for any theater production your college has so you can practice being in front of people.
Tip:
many colleges have jobs or clubs on campus that can help you become a better presenter. For example, you can be a tour guide to practice interacting with people, or you can find a production club to film events.
Step 3. Choose a topic if you are interested in specializing
Many television presenters are knowledgeable in other subjects, which makes them more versatile and remarkable. Choose topics that really interest you and take additional courses so you can learn more about them. Always look for more ways to become an expert on your topic by reading articles or watching videos on your own.
- For example, if you are interested in current events, you can take a course in modern history or global issues to learn more. This can help you become a news anchor or a story-related show.
- You don't need to take college courses on topics if you don't want to. Read articles online and stay up-to-date on the topics that really interest you.
Part 3 of 3: Find a Presenter Job
Step 1. Create a resume to list your work experience and skills
When you do your resume, be sure to include any work history that is related to the presentation, if you have any. List the skills you developed that help you present, such as communication, improvisation, or experience in front of the camera. Try to keep your resume no more than 1-2 pages long so it's not too overwhelming for employers.
- Add colors and graphic design to your resume to make sure it stands out.
- Include details about your height, weight, and appearance so employers know what you look like. In this way, they can tell if you are a good candidate to present specific programs.
Step 2. Have your face photos taken so employers know what you look like.
Hire a photographer to take photos of you with good lighting and good framing to include on your resume. Dress up for photos like you're presenting the kind of show you want to work on. Look directly at the camera and smile, but try different angles and expressions to see which one works best for your photos.
You can also try taking your own face photos if you have a clean, well-lit space to take the photos
Step 3. Make an acting portfolio to show your skills on screen
An acting portfolio shows your previous work so producers and employers know what to expect when in front of a camera. Choose the type of presentation you want to make and use images from previous experiences in the portfolio. If you have no prior experience, you can film yourself performing in front of a camera. Try to make the presentation less than 4 minutes so that it is not too long.
Don't include everything you've done in your acting portfolio, as it can be overwhelming for employers. Pick the material that shows your best work in the area you want to work on
Warning:
don't use a fake presenter voice for your portfolio. Be yourself so employers can see your personality.
Step 4. Start looking for lower-level media production jobs
It can be difficult to become a television host right away, so look for jobs related to television production. Look for positions as a camera operator, writer, editor, or production assistant so you can work on set and meet other people. In this way, you will become familiar with how the production works and see how other presenters behave in a professional manner.
There are many online job boards created specifically for production. Search sites like Backstage and ProductionHUB for the best chances of being on set
Step 5. Network with other people in the industry to find out about new opportunities
Talk to the people you work with and make meaningful connections with them. Don't ask people for jobs right away, as that might sound aggressive or desperate. First, try to establish a relationship of colleagues or friends and be yourself. If you leave a memorable impression on someone, they may remember you when they have a job opportunity.
Find other people who have goals similar to yours so that you can work together and help each other
Step 6. Look for open auditions to submit work
Many television presenters go through an audition process so that producers can see them in action. Check online job boards to see if there are presenter or host jobs available. Send copies of your resume, photo of your face and acting portfolio to any position that interests you to see if they call you. Go to auditions with confidence and do what the producers ask of you.
Leave the photo of your face and your resume with the people for whom you will audition and thank them for their time so that you have a better chance
Advice
- There are many people who want to be television presenters, so always make sure your resume and acting portfolio are up to date with your most recent work.
- Maintain the connections you make while you work. You never know who may offer you an opportunity in the future.