A lesson from the BBC
Over the past five years it has been my privilege to record over 100 scripts for Pause for Thought on BBC Radio 2. When I was gearing up for recording my first batch back in 2007, a fellow preacher nodded knowingly and said ‘every preacher should be produced’. At the time I was nonplussed, but now I know just what he meant. The experience of working with professionals committed to excellence in radio production has taught me so much. When I enter the studio I place myself in their hands, accepting that they have the final say on what sounds best, and how to make it sound that way. At times this may mean changing an inflection, an emphasis, or even a whole phrase if that is what it takes.
Yesterday’s producer was a prime exponent of this, and a shining example to any communicators of how to suggest improvements without crushing the spirit. Of the five scripts, probably only two were recorded entirely without amendment. However, the small changes which were introduced were done with such a blend of affirmation and positive encouragement that it would have been downright rude not to make them!
Next time someone asks me ‘what did you think of my sermon?’, I shall try to hear the producer’s voice in my headphones again and do likewise.
