8 Smart Programming Moves to Win This Fall

With the fall book underway and year-round PPM measurement always in play, this is the time to tighten things up. Here are 8 smart programming moves that will help your station perform at its best this fall:

1. Prioritize real coaching.
   Air talent still craves feedback, yet many PDs are stretched thin. Block out time to truly listen to your jocks and give them honest, constructive input. Nothing strengthens a relationship, or improves a show, more than consistent coaching.
2. Sell your biggest product: the music.
   Listeners don’t alwas know what makes you different unless you tell them. Make sure you’re consistently selling your music mix, the benefits of listening at work, and your unique position. Hit it hard and often. Don’t buy into the thought that the music no longer counts since listeners can get it on other platforms. It’s still music radio’s #1 attraction.
3. Let your imaging “burn in.”
   Don’t fear repetition. Strong, consistent imaging builds brand identity. Refresh, when necessary, but keep the focus on hammering home what makes you unique.
4. Own your music logs.
   PDs should be directly involved in the daily edit. Every segue, every 15-minute cluster matters. Watch rotations carefully, especially verticals, and fix them before they cost you TSL.
5. Create more listening occasions.
   Give listeners reasons to come back multiple times a day. Whether it’s a contest, feature, or specific appointment listening, the goal is turning casual listeners into habitual ones.
6. Connect beyond the control room.
   Don’t get stuck in the building. Meet with your GM, sales team, and air staff regularly. If you can’t do it in person, schedule a Zoom. Shared meals, or even quick conversations build alignment and momentum.
7. Stay ahead of the holidays.
   Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas are coming fast. Plan the promotions, imaging, and music strategy now so you’re not scrambling later. Fall can be won or lost by how well you prepare for Q4. Read my previous newsletter about celebrating Halloween for a week! 
8. Audit your digital and social media presence.
   Your brand isn’t just on the air. Listeners experience it on your website, stream, and social platforms. Are your links working? Does the stream sound strong and reliable? Is your social media current, consistent, and targeted to your demo? When was the last time you edited and cleaned up your website? 

Now is the time to eliminate the “who cares” material and focus on what matters most, especially making sure visitors know how they can listen to you. That means clear links for app downloads, streaming, and Alexa commands. A sloppy digital presence undermines everything you’re doing on-air, while a sharp one extends your reach and credibility.

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