Now that the BSM Summit 2023 is over, it’s time to do something about it. Whether you attended or followed along online, it’s time to go over a few ideas on how to cash in your newfound wealth of insights and ideas on how to grow the Sports Radio business.
Business author Dr. James Belasco said that knowledge is nothing without action. Nothing changes until you do something. What you do will directly determine what you learn. So, here are some tips on how to put into action what you learned from the BSM Summit 2023.
GO BACK TO GO FORWARD!
What were the key themes and ideas that stood out to you? What did you write down or talk about with others? What kind of takeaways did that create for you? How can you apply these insights to your job or those who work with you?
For example, Jason Barrett made a point in his introductory comments to remind us that we are not in the sports media radio or tv business but in the CONTENT business. How can you incorporate more social media into the sales culture of your organization? If it is being produced, it can be sold!
PLEASE PUT IT IN WRITING.
You know what resonated with you. Now put down just 1 or 2 specific actions you can take motivated by what you learned at the Summit. Remember, a goal is a dream without a deadline.
Do this Monday. Prepare this weekend while everything is fresh on your mind.
This might involve setting goals around audience growth, content development, or engagement. For example, suppose you learned about the importance of phones, podcasting, and streaming from Larry Rosin at Edison Research. In that case, you might aim to create a more robust local sports original podcast network. Put a demo together and get it sold in 30 days or less. Think beyond just your on-air talent. Local fans, players, coaches, and management have talent too.
SHARE WHAT YOU LEARNED
Think beyond the sales meeting. Why not put a white paper together for LinkedIn or, better yet, a video? Please share it. Many people can benefit from the insights and ideas you just got from the greatest minds in sports radio. Offer a NOBODY LISTENS TO THE RADIO 30-minute speech to your local Ad Fed or Rotary Club. You rubbed shoulders with Jim Rome, Colin Cowherd, and Erik Shanks of Fox Sports. You have first-hand information that needs to be shared.
HIT THEM UP
Stay connected with those you met and interacted with at the Summit. Deliver that contact you said you would or piece of information. Follow them on social media or send them an email. Expand your contacts and continue the conversation by thanking them for what you learned or can help them with in the future. Be genuine and not out to get a job.
GO FOR MORE
Knowledge is power! Look for books, articles, or online courses that can help you deepen your understanding of something you learned at the BSM Summit. For example, if you got lost when the digital media stuff came up, commit to an IAB training or certification to get you up to speed asap
Don’t overestimate the value of the knowledge you have now because you are underestimating the value of what you will gain by giving that up. Make meaningful changes in your work or perspective and watch your sports radio world improve.
Jeff Caves is a sales columnist for BSM working in radio and digital sales for Cumulus Media in Dallas, Texas and Boise, Idaho. He is credited with helping launch, build, and develop Sports Radio The Ticket in Boise, into the market’s top sports radio station. During his 26 year stay at KTIK, Caves hosted drive time, programmed the station, and excelled as a top seller. You can reach him by email at jeffcaves54@gmail.com or find him on LinkedIn.
