Thanks for your interest in volunteering with Hot Radio.

We’ve put these FAQs together to answer the most common questions we get from new applicants, so you can quickly understand what’s involved and whether it’s the right fit.

If, after reading, you’d like to move forward, you’re invited to book a 5-minute video call introduction. This is a quick, friendly chat. No complicated interview style questions:

• It’s a chance for you to ask any quick questions.
• It’s also a chance for us to get to know you and make sure your application is routed to the right department.

Click Here to Book Your Call

_______________________________
 

Volunteer FAQs

Is this a paid role?

Hot Radio is powered by volunteers. If you’re excited to contribute to a station that serves the community, you’ll fit right in. We do what we can to reward our team, and we may reimburse expenses from time to time, but the roles themselves are volunteer.

Is this suitable for short-term volunteering, or work experience?

No. These opportunities are not short-term or work experience placements. We’re building a long-term team, so if you’re only after something brief, this won’t be the right fit.

How many hours do I need to commit?

It depends on the role and your availability. We’re happy to work around what you can realistically offer, but we’re looking for people who want an ongoing commitment, not a short-term arrangement.

What kind of people do well at Hot Radio?

Friendly, reliable people who communicate well, enjoy being part of a team, and care about doing things properly. If you’re consistent, proactive, and community-minded, you’ll fit in well.

Location and remote options

Where are the studios based?

Our studios are on Ringwood Road in Poole.

Can I volunteer remotely?

In most cases, we’d like volunteers to work from our studio/office so you can be part of the team day-to-day. However, there are some opportunities that can be done remotely, depending on the role and your setup. For example, presenters may be able to broadcast remotely if they have suitable home studio facilities, and some admin/content tasks can sometimes be done off-site. Events roles are always in-person.

Do I need to live locally?

Not always. For studio and events roles, being local (or able to travel to Poole) is important. For some admin roles, remote volunteering may be possible.

Roles and opportunities

What roles are you currently recruiting for?

Current openings include:

• On Air: Presenter / Co-Host
• Production: Producer / Show Assistant
• Office Based: Researchers / Content Producers / Social Media
• Technical: Studio / Audio / Streaming / Events
• Events: Street Team / Event Support
• Commercial: Sponsorship and Fundraising

Can I apply for more than one role?

Yes. If you’re open to multiple roles, let us know in your application.

I’m not sure which role suits me. Can I still apply?

Yes. Tell us what you enjoy, what skills you have, and what you’d like to learn, and we’ll help match you to the right opportunity.

On-air (Presenter and Co-Host)

Do I need radio experience to apply for on-air roles?

Not necessarily. The basic requirement is that you’ve used a microphone before and can show personality on the mic. That could include radio, live entertainment, singing, public speaking, or similar.

Will you train me?

Yes. We provide training to adapt to Hot Radio’s structure and standards, regardless of your previous experience.

Can I present remotely?

Yes, if you have suitable home studio facilities. Otherwise, on-air roles are studio-based in Poole.

What do you mean by an audition?

An audition is a chance for us to hear you on the mic and see how you fit our sound and structure. We’ll explain what we need from you and what to prepare.

Production and behind-the-scenes roles

Do you provide training for producer and support roles?

Yes. Training is provided for production, office-based, technical support, events, and commercial roles.

I’ve never worked in radio. Can I still help?

Yes. If you’ve got transferable skills (organisation, writing, social media, tech confidence, people skills), we can train you on how we do things at Hot Radio.

Events and street team

What does the street team do?

Helping at outside broadcasts and local events, supporting promotions, and being part of listener-facing activity in the community.

Can events roles be done remotely?

No. Events roles are in-person.

Commercial (Sponsorship and Fundraising)

What does sponsorship and fundraising involve?

Supporting the station’s growth by helping build relationships with local businesses and community partners. Training is provided.

Do I need sales experience?

No, but confidence speaking to people and being comfortable with outreach helps a lot. We’ll support you with the approach and materials.

Safeguarding and DBS

Do I need a DBS check?

Yes. DBS checks will be required as part of onboarding.

Application process

What happens after I apply?

Our process is:

1. Online form
2. Short introduction via video call
3. Face-to-face meeting at the studio
4. Audition
5. Onboarding (including DBS) and training
6. Start

How long does the process take?

It varies depending on role availability, scheduling, and DBS processing times. We’ll guide you through each step.

Will everyone who applies get a place?

Not always. We review every application and move forward with people who are a strong fit for our standards, roles, and availability.

Still got a question?

If your question isn’t answered here, bring it to your 5-minute video call introduction and we’ll point you in the right direction.