Top of Hour
Top of Hour (TOH) is a radio broadcasting term that refers to the beginning of each hour in a radio station's programming schedule. This is typically when important station elements occur, such as news updates, station identification (legally required station ID), weather reports, and time checks. In the radio industry, being able to execute "tight" or precise Top of Hour transitions is an important skill, as it affects the overall professionalism and timing of the station's programming. Radio professionals might also call this "TOH" or "Hour Marker" in casual conversation.
Examples in Resumes
Managed Top of Hour breaks including news, weather, and station identification for major market radio station
Coordinated precise TOH timing for network programming across 5 affiliated stations
Produced and scheduled Top of Hour station identification and promotional content
Typical job title: "Radio Broadcasters"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Radio Broadcasters
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Industry Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a situation where network programming is running late and affecting Top of Hour timing?
Expected Answer: A senior broadcaster should explain strategies for adjusting programming times, using time compression techniques, and coordinating with network operations while maintaining FCC compliance for station identification.
Q: What systems would you implement to ensure consistent Top of Hour execution across multiple stations?
Expected Answer: Should discuss automation systems, staff training protocols, quality control measures, and backup procedures for synchronized timing across stations.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you prepare for Top of Hour transitions during live broadcasts?
Expected Answer: Should explain monitoring time cues, preparing content in advance, coordinating with news team, and handling unexpected timing issues smoothly.
Q: What elements do you typically include in a Top of Hour break?
Expected Answer: Should mention station identification, news updates, weather, time check, and promotional content while explaining proper ordering and timing.
Junior Level Questions
Q: Why is Top of Hour timing important in radio broadcasting?
Expected Answer: Should understand basic concepts of program timing, legal requirements for station identification, and importance of consistency for listeners.
Q: What tools do you use to monitor Top of Hour timing?
Expected Answer: Should be familiar with studio clocks, automation systems, and basic timing equipment used in radio broadcasting.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic studio equipment operation
- Understanding of broadcast timing
- Station ID requirements
- Basic audio editing
Mid (2-5 years)
- Smooth Top of Hour transitions
- Live broadcast coordination
- Program timing management
- Multiple source integration
Senior (5+ years)
- Network programming coordination
- Staff training and supervision
- Crisis management during broadcasts
- Multiple station synchronization
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to maintain consistent timing
- Poor understanding of FCC station identification requirements
- Lack of experience with broadcast automation systems
- No knowledge of emergency broadcast procedures
Related Terms
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