Career of an anchor is one that commands immense
popularity. He/ she is the face seen by millions of families each day and is
instantly recognised by people. To succeed in this career one must be an
extrovert, be confident and should be free from inhibitions while communicating.
Anchoring has emerged as a popular career option in the
country with the entry of satellite channels, with several news as well as
entertainment channels coming up day by day. The field is quite lucrative for
successful anchors in the field.
An anchor is usually known as either a presenter, host,
news reader or news/program anchor etc. Anchors are of three types- stage
anchor, news anchor and programme anchor. While stage anchor present live
events, News anchor/program anchors present news or programs in entertainment
media or news media. TV news anchors present news in different languages -
national, regional and other different languages. Program anchors focuses
toward entertainment programs such as award functions, any competition shows,
comedy shows, film based shows, cooking shows, reality shows, sports, crime
reports or talk shows and debates etc.
Anchors are the mediators between the channel and the audience. They are
not only mere presenters, but are required to have updated knowledge about
the world around them. Be it entertainment or sober news presentations,
they must have the quality to engage the viewers throughout the programme.
The task of news reading and presenting a program is a challenging field.
An anchor is responsible for not only providing information, but also
needs to ensure that program is delivered in an entertaining manner.
The nature of the program determines the conduct of its
anchor. The anchor must be versatile and flexible based on the nature of the
program. If the program is purely an entertainment based show, then the anchor
may have to engage in light-hearted conversation with the caller, be able to
crack jokes at the proper time and should radiate a vibrant attitude. Whereas,
if the program is on a delicate and serious issue, then its anchor should be
calm and composed. In a sense, the anchor can make a show interesting or
dull.
Anchoring is a talent-based profession, it requires a good
command over language and a humour sense. An anchor must maintain wit and humor
at all times to make up for any slip of tongue that they may make. The art of
talking your way out of uncomfortable situations is the most important
pre-requisite. Moreover an anchor needs to be a powerhouse of knowledge.
Thorough knowledge of current affairs, politics and history are a must if you
want to sustain in this industry. The popularity of the show entirely depends on
an anchors performance on stage. Being on the call always is also essential
if you are passionate about the career.
A trusted, respected anchor reflects well on the public's
general opinion of that channel. In short, people tune in that channel
because of who the anchors are, their familiarity with them and the trust built
over time, and that's a great deal of responsibility.
