20 Lessons I've Learned in TV Weather: # 7 - PLAY NICE IN THE SANDBOX

Let’s be honest. Not everyone likes everyone else. Not everyone is friends. There are different personalities, different belief systems, and different work ethics. People are people and we are all unique. Working in television is just like working anywhere else. There are people at work with whom you do not get along, and people who become your best friends. There are managers for whom you’d walk through fire, and managers you can’t wait to see leave. In my 25 years, I’ve only worked in four TV markets. That’s actually a low number when some people in TV jump to a new station every 2-3 years. Even with my limited locations, I have been surrounded by a revolving door of co-workers. People come and go, bosses get fired and hired, stations are bought and sold, and contracts are not renewed.

I have learned that in order to work in one career for many years, you have to get along with all kinds of people. You have to grow, adjust, be pliable, roll with the punches, be nice, and also stand up for yourself. You have to change and adapt, not only with technology and information but also with various people and personalities. I like to think I’ve done that well, but I’m sure there are a few past co-workers and bosses who disagree. Remember even when you encounter people you don’t like much, you can still learn from them. I tried to remind myself that wise men learn more from their enemies than fools learn from their friends. Even if it’s only learning how NOT to be, act, do or say.

When you work ON TV it’s more difficult to work side-by-side with someone whom you don’t have chemistry with. Not only do you need to like them but sometimes you need to read their mind, and know they won’t throw you under the bus on or off-camera. There’s a higher level of trust required when you rely on someone (who is not your spouse or soulmate) to make you look your best in front of others. I have been so fortunate to have had many incredible co-workers throughout the years. Some are still my dear friends today and will be long after I leave this business.

“The most important single ingredient in the formula of success is knowing how to get along with people.” - Theodore Roosevelt