MTV Networks is offering a six-figure salary to one of 20 applicants who will serve as a "Twitter Jockey." The ideal candidate will be a "dynamic, engaging and energized... enthusiast within the social media world," according to MTV executive Dave Sirulnik. The new employee will interact with MTV fans and take suggestions to upper management.
The selection process will include a series of challenges over the course of the summer, with the final five candidates facing off in a live competition on August 8 where viewers will ultimately decide the winner.
Although MTV GM Stephen Friedman calls the new position "a natural evolution of how we connect with our audience," is this really a six-figure position? It's an intern-level job at some other companies. Clearly it's a gimmick, but there is a value in listening back - society is getting used to participating in the creation of content, not just being a passive receptor.
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