I’m getting a new man…
That is, I’m getting my fourth Drive Show co-host in five years.
Big city lights, bigger paycheck and the challenge of competing in a tough radio environment. The lure of working in a capital city is the #dream for many in the radio industry. In my best ‘The Godfather” voice, “Josh received an offer too good to refuse”. So, this is the current tally. Leigh – Sydney. Jamie – Melbourne. Josh – Brisbane.
From the outside (and inside), radio is a revolving door industry. It’s fast-paced and it’s constantly evolving. People move up and people move on, as they search for a greater reward.
I found myself standing in the Krock kitchen, making a cup of herbal tea. Nicole in Sales calls out to me.
“Stampsy, my absolute favourite. Don’t you think about going anywhere!”
…But I need to get back to my desk and answer the afternoon emails.
“No. I mean don’t ever leave. We need you here.”
I understood the compliment that Nic was trying to give me. She was telling me I was loved and appreciated and I was an important part of the Krock furniture. But for a moment, it made me sad. Three people who have worked directly with me have been promoted. And I’m still here.
Do I lack drive? Do I lack ambition? Have I passed my prime? If I don’t leave, does that mean I’ve failed?
Three more staff members tell me not to leave. “The place would not be the same without you”.
If I don’t leave, will I get stale? I don’t want to be the grumpy old employee who receives their watch on their 25th anniversary, whining that “radio was better back in my day… real music… before social media… wah”.
The sadness lasted only for a moment. Upon reflection, I know everybody’s career is different. Everybody’s desires are different. It’s great to have a goal; it’s great to be driven. And it’s okay to be happy where you are, with who you are and what is happening right now. Because YOUR moment will come when the time is right. (It probably explains why I’ve been seeing 11.11 everywhere!)
It’s okay to be loyal when you’re thrilled with the opportunities right here and now. It took me three years to really find my feet in Geelong. I’ve been promoted to Network Music Director within Grant Broadcasters and will be looking after 7 hit music stations from September. Add to that, I took on Entertainment Correspondent for our Network Nights Show across Australia, Boundary Rider for Krock Football, Ground Announcer at GMHBA Stadium and Courtside Announcer for the Geelong Supercats.
If anything, I NEED SLEEP.
My point being, I’m making my own opportunities right here. And I don’t need to book a removalist! I don’t need a job in a big city to justify my worth in the radio industry. Sure, it would be nice, but knowing my current workmate’s value my contribution is really humbling… And I get a new man.
Stampsy’s on the socials, so give her some love. IG Lee_Stamps, FB StampsyKROCK
