Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Arbitron • Modulation • Broadcast Console

Bottom of Hour

Term from Radio Broadcasting industry explained for recruiters

Bottom of Hour (BOH) is a common term in radio broadcasting that refers to the final few minutes before the next hour begins. It's when radio stations typically schedule specific content like weather updates, short news briefs, or station identifications. This timing is important because many listeners tune in at the top of the hour, so stations organize their content to keep listeners engaged during these transition periods. When you see this term in resumes, it usually indicates that the candidate has experience with radio programming schedules and time management in broadcasting.

Examples in Resumes

Managed Bottom of Hour breaks including weather updates and station identification

Coordinated news segments and advertisements during BOH segments

Trained junior broadcasters in proper Bottom of Hour timing and content delivery

Typical job title: "Radio Broadcasters"

Also try searching for:

Radio Host On-Air Personality Broadcast Announcer Radio DJ Radio Producer Program Director Broadcast Technician

Where to Find Radio Broadcasters

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Industry Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you manage multiple Bottom of Hour elements while ensuring smooth transitions?

Expected Answer: A senior broadcaster should explain their system for organizing various elements like weather, news, and advertisements while maintaining precise timing and ensuring smooth transitions between segments.

Q: How have you improved Bottom of Hour efficiency at previous stations?

Expected Answer: They should describe specific examples of streamlining BOH content, perhaps through better scheduling, automated systems, or improved communication between team members.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What elements do you typically include in Bottom of Hour breaks?

Expected Answer: Should be able to list common elements like weather updates, upcoming program teasers, station IDs, and how to prioritize them based on time constraints.

Q: How do you handle technical issues during Bottom of Hour segments?

Expected Answer: Should explain backup plans and quick solutions for common technical problems while maintaining professional broadcast quality.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the Bottom of Hour and why is it important?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic understanding that BOH refers to the final minutes of each hour and its importance for station identification and brief updates.

Q: How do you prepare for Bottom of Hour breaks?

Expected Answer: Should explain basic preparation steps like reviewing scheduled content, checking timing, and having backup material ready.