Employees in a Converged Radio Environment

The digital transformation has enabled radio to take significant strides forward in the distribution and production of multimedia content. However, it is evident that most radio content is still produced by real people, not by technology or artificial intelligence. The primary research question of this paper investigates what skills, knowledge, and educational qualifications employers prioritize when hiring new radio employees. The research focus also extends to digital versions of radio. This qualitative study is based on semi-structured interviews with five chief editors from the most popular FM radio stations in Zagreb. Findings indicate that editors value multitasking skills in employees, while educational qualifications are considered beneficial but not essential for employment. Employers' expectations are understandable, as despite analog FM distribution, radio operates within a converged media environment, requiring "converged" employees who understand the dynamics of digital media. But does the Croatian labor market provide such employees? This paper raises, once again, the issue of education for future media professionals.