MARCH 2, 2023

A delegation of broadcasters from across Kentucky participated in KBA's annual DC Fly-In yesterday on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC. The group was fortunate to meet in-person with Kentucky's Congressional leaders. Topics discussed on behalf of all broadcasters included: Local Radio Freedom Act; Regulatory Fees; JCPA; Next Gen Television and Public Broadcasting.

Last week, Forcht Broadcasting Radio & Digital’s Somerset station, WYKY FM, hosted their annual St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Radiothon. Community leaders co-hosted with station hosts each hour of the radiothon, telling stories about the kids of St. Jude. Several local restaurants served as hospitality sponsors and provided food during the radiothon for the guests.

In 2022, radio stations drove $1.8 billion in digital sales, up 21.1% for the year. “It’s remarkable that the industry has grown digital revenue 80% in the past three years,” said Gordon Borrell, CEO of Borrell Associates. “If it hits $2 billion, as we’re forecasting, I think it marks the start of a new era where radio remains a solid core, but digital products become the industry’s most important growth engine.”

How can your sales team be ready? RAB’s Certified Digital Marketing Consultant certification course equips sellers to become the integrated marketing experts clients need. The KBA is proud to partner with the RAB to provide complimentary certifications to active KBA member stations. Annual enrollment is limited, sign up today.

Mark your calendar for this year’s Midwest Broadcast & Multimedia Technology Conference on Sept. 28, in Columbus!  

This year we are bringing together engineers from four states as the Michigan Association of Broadcasters joins the OAB, IBA, and KBA in presenting MBMTC 2023. The conference will once again feature an exhibitor showcase, door prize giveaways, professional networking, dining, and a collection of panel discussions and breakout sessions. 

This full day of learning and networking is designed specifically with broadcast engineers in mind – providing you with an opportunity to explore best practices, compliance guidance and the latest technology and equipment available. 

Registration will open in July. We look forward to seeing you in September!

Tom Hammond (pictured above with University of Kentucky President, Dr. Eli Capelouto), a 1967 graduate of the University of Kentucky, recently retired after a 50-year career in sports broadcasting that spanned across the Commonwealth of Kentucky and around the world. His dedication and success was recognized Wednesday when he was awarded the 2023 University of Kentucky Founders Day Award at a ceremony in his honor. READ MORE

We want to promote YOU! Send us your staff additions, promotions and special events. Email Chris at chris@kba.org

JUST A LITTLE GOES A LONG WAY

In a small coffee shop in the heart of the city, a regular customer walked in with a frown on his face. The barista, a young woman named Maria, noticed his demeanor and asked if everything was okay. The customer, who had just received some bad news, shared his worries with Maria, who listened attentively and offered some kind words of encouragement.

As the conversation progressed, Maria noticed that the customer's gaze kept drifting towards the baked goods on display. He eventually asked if they had any gluten-free options, to which Maria replied that they didn't, but she knew a nearby bakery that specialized in gluten-free treats.

The customer thanked her and was about to leave when Maria had an idea. She offered to place an order for him at the bakery and have it delivered to the coffee shop, so he could enjoy a treat with his coffee. The customer was surprised and grateful for the gesture, and eagerly agreed.

A few minutes later, Maria placed the order and gave the customer a seat at the counter, free of charge. As he enjoyed his coffee and gluten-free muffin, Maria continued to chat with him, making sure he was feeling better.

This simple act of kindness and customer focus not only made the customer's day but also earned Maria a loyal customer for life. He returned to the coffee shop regularly, bringing friends and family along, and telling anyone who would listen about the exceptional service he had received.

This story is a testament to the power of customer focus in sales. By putting the needs and concerns of the customer first, Maria was able to build trust and establish a long-term relationship that led to increased business and customer loyalty.

In any sales setting, the customer should always be the focus. By listening to their needs and concerns, being knowledgeable about the product or service, being responsive and accessible, and following up after the sale, salespeople can build trust and establish long-term relationships with their customers. This can lead to increased sales, customer loyalty, and ultimately, a successful sales career.

We are always looking for great examples of your customer service.  Have a story to share, please email me.

Jeff Schmidt is the SVP of Professional Development at the Radio Advertising Bureau. You can also connect with him by email JSchmidt@rab.com or on Twitter and LinkedIn.

Your active KBA membership entitles you to complimentary access to RAB's online certifications.

MAY 18, 2023

9:00am - KBA Board of Directors Meeting in Bowling Green

SEPTEMBER 24-25, 2023

KBA Annual Conference @ Northern Kentucky Convention Center

*All times shown are Eastern

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