Words of Wisdom from Media Industry Leaders

Name: Greg Janoff

Current Title: VP/Branded Entertainment Sales  

Company: MyDamnChannel.com | RAMP Video

How long with Company: 4 months

How long have you been in the media industry? 27 years

Why did you choose a career in media? At first, I was drawn to broadcasting because we were the people entire markets relied on for news and entertainment and working at radio and television stations was not only challenging but fun.  The people in the business, in general, also seemed passionate about their work.  It provided an opportunity to work in a fast-paced and always evolving sector.  Media sales allowed an individual the chance to learn about multiple industries as we aimed to help grow our clients' businesses.

How did you get your first job in media? Networked.  I started with the traditional "informational interviews" at NEBA... the trade organization for radio and television in New England and they, in turn, introduced me to the people running the stations.  And they gave me great advice in launching a career.  In a few months, I had my first job at WHEB AM/FM in Portsmouth, New Hampshire!

What are some of the biggest challenges you have experienced in your career?  Change came very quickly to the traditional media industry.  Booming years during consolidation changed the way we structured our businesses and sold our advertising but technology and new content distribution platforms radically altered the media landscape.  The recession coupled with this new competition for our audience and ad dollars presented the greatest challenges. 

Otherwise, we all are always challenged to grow audience and grow revenue and you constantly have to re-invent yourself and your organizations.  Doing business the same way is a sure path to failure.

What was your favorite job and why?  I've enjoyed times during all my jobs where we had success in that re-invention.  When you have the idea that works and you see the results after the several that didn't quite make it, the feeling is great.  To hear or see that vision on-air or online and know so many people are experiencing it is always a rush.  But, if I had to pick a favorite it might be the time as GSM at 1010 WINS in the mid to late 90's and early 2000's when we had an exceptional team of professionals and met and exceeded many goals...ones we thought might be unreachable.  That was a special time.  Although, being the VP/General Manager at 1010 WINS and 1010wins.com when it was the biggest station in the country was certainly exciting and satisfying as well.

What words of wisdom would you share with others about a career in media?  Work hard, be open to ideas and surround yourself with the smartest and most driven people in your organization.  Be a sponge and soak up their knowledge and experience.  Good advice for anyone is to nurture and protect your reputation...in the end your integrity and ethics are what you have and can control.  Finally, media especially should be fun.  I'm a serious person, sometimes too much so.  Try and remember that media jobs are hard work but not life or death.  Take chances, learn from your mistakes and move on.  And your career is a marathon...not a sprint.  Your next opportunity will come from the great work you do in your current job.