What Were You Thinking?NBC15 Blog Listing
What Were You Thinking?
Topic Author: Brock Bergey
Posted: 3:28 PM May 19, 2008
Replies Posted: 8 comments
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What Were You Thinking?
Contrary to what some of you may think, local news personalities do not have wardrobe assistants.  In other words, we decide what we wear on the air.  Yes, there are standards and recommended colors and designs.  However, I pick out my own shirts and ties -- and like to think I usually do a good job.

Sunday, I wore a brighter green shirt with a multi-colored tie (that included that same green shade).  Dana, my co-anchor, complimented me on the combination.  I guess it didn't come across that stylish, though, on the airwaves.

Following our 10pm newscast, I received a few comments about my clothing choice--they were not flattering.  That's fine.  I'm used to it. In this business you quickly learn some people are not afraid of speaking their mind. 

My favorite "critique" came when I worked in La Crosse.  It had to do with my hair style.  A viewer emailed in and described it as a chicken's nest.  I replied saying that certainly was not the look I was going for and thanked him for his opinion.   (This would be a good place to mention we do our own hair and makeup, as well.)

I do believe on-air journalists have a responsibility to dress in a professional and appropriate manner.  However, this is not Hollywood.  Our primary job is to deliver accurate and timely information.  We do not walk down a red carpet to get to the anchor desk.

What is your opinion on this?  I can tell you I will not be wearing the green shirt/tie combo, on-air, again!
Read Comments
Posted by: John Location: DeForest
Brock: I have worked in the television industry and can say that how you look definitely has an impact in how people perceive you. If you have a weird combination of clothes, or strange looking hair, or your tie is not quite right, people spend time wondering why you look that way, or why doesn't he know what's wrong instead of listening to you. Your goal should be to not stand out too much, unless (of course) that's your goal. We were always told a tie should be darker than your shirt, and coat should be darker than your shirt, otherwise you run the risk of looking like a 1930s Chicago gangster. Whenever I see guys with that chicken nest hair, I wonder if it's really windy outside, and they didn't bother to comb their hair after coming in.

Posted by: Mike and P@ Location: Madison
Brock, dude, what you had on was just fine! Of course, my guide dog is color blind, & I am totally blind, so between the two of us you looked great- & so think other people on the blog! Your clothing has never impacted the value of the news I get listening to you, & I consider myself well informed and up to date. Of course, I also use the good old public speaking advice of "if you're nervous, imagine everyone in their underwear!" theory when listening to the news... just kidding! Although it would make it kind of interesting when Michelle or Amy fills in on "The morning show" with Sarah and Christine! You do a fantastic job Brock, and I am grateful you are there bringing the news to me the way you do, clothing be darned!

Posted by: Nadia Location: Somewhere in Madison
There was nothing wrong with your outfit on Sunday. You always look good!

Posted by: Carol Location: Baraboo
I usually look at the newspersons' attire last. I guess that means that NBC 15's staff are truly professionals in all aspects of their work. If at any time any of you were dressed inapropriately, I would have noticed. Keep up the great work!

Posted by: Don Location: Arlinton
Dude, you looked fine(for a guy of course!) Some people just are to picky and to "by the book". I would wear it again just to irritate the few people who didn't like it. Thats just me though!

Posted by: Cory Location: Lake Mills, WI
Brock, I personally loved the green shirt and tie combo you wore Sunday night. It was colorful and showed some personality in it. In fact, I actually looked online for a similar look for myself! I guess to each their own. Keep up the great work that you and NBC15 does. It can't be easy to always be on top of the story and in front of the cameras.

Posted by: Packer Fan Location: WI
I was also going to say that I think women have more pressure to look good on the air. than men do. It goes back to the expectations that society has for women and men. Women are supposed to be talented and beautiful. I don't agree with this at all, but it does seem to be the case.

Posted by: Packer Fan Location: WI
Brock- I think that you were very accurate when you said that "your job is to deliver accurate and timely information." What you are wearing, beyond obvious considerations like if it is distracting, really is secondary. However, people will be looking at you (and your co-workers) with a critical eye about what you have on. Is it fair? Not really, but it comes with being in the spotlight. I teach adults and I know that they notice what I have on and what I am doing.. they let me know too (