But guess what? Your News Director might also feel the same way.
Ever check the "moving on" section of tvjobs.com? Scroll down a little more and you'll see the list of new News Directors who have changed addresses. Hmmmm, lots of moves there as well. Basically, the average ND stays at a job between two and three years... just like most reporters.
And if your ND is looking for a job, this might explain a few things. A few things to look for that are clues he might be sending out tapes as fast as you are:
-Your News Director used to be very involved in the operation, but has grown distant and doesn't seem to care much.
-You find him making copies of the latest ratings book.
-You notice he doesn't have a good relationship with the GM, corporate, or both.
-He is increasingly frustrated with cheap ownership, and not shy about saying so.
-Every time a new piece of large equipment arrives, he takes the box home. Packing!
-He takes an odd day off in the middle of the week. Interview!
Yes, News Directors also want to move up the ladder, just as much as you do. If you're a reporter in Palookaville and can't wait to move on, do you think he wants to stay in Palookaville as well? He has dreams and goals too.
There are other reasons NDs move on... helicopter General Managers, companies that throw nickels around like manhole covers, frustration with the production department. On the other side of the coin, you may work for a good company that promotes from within, and your ND may have been promised the next step up the ladder when a spot opens up within the group. So if you see an announcement about another ND within the chain moving on, don't be surprised if your guy fills that spot.
All the more reason I warn you guys to have an "escape tape" ready to go. The new guy might come in and clean house, or just not like your style for whatever reason.
Just keep in mind that News Directors move on as well... so don't be surprised if you run into yours at the post office.
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