Caroline of Mission Viejo CA (5/21/03):
The American Radio Network places an ad in the employment classifieds for Announcers, no experience necessary, promising $12/hr. to $200 per show. They have an “audition” and informational meeting, and sign people up to be trained – saying they want to help you get a career in broadcasting, either with their radio stations or others.
Although the training is free they charge a “fee to use the studio”. The way you earn money is by selling ad spots on your shows. The equipment and training are a joke, and in the end you will end up paying quite a bit of money and wasting lots of time. They require 3 weeks notice to quit, and make you pay weekly fees whether or not you use the studio once you give notice. They say they’re not a school, so they don’t have to live up to any educational standards.
I was able to get out of it without notice or paying the fees, but I had to fight for it. I have business background and know what to say, but not everyone does. They’re opening more “studios” in other cities across the U.S.
Damage Resulting: Lost $71 in fees, $25 in equipment and wasted time, effort and energy. Had to argue to get out of the contract without paying more fees.
You can find this article here: http://www.consumeraffairs.com/employment/american_radio_network.html
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Several times I’ve actually considered going to one of their auditions. I’m glad I googled them before I wasted my time.
I don’t understand how these companies are allowed to stay in business.
