Whether you are embarking on a degree, recently graduated or considering a career change, working in the film and TV industry is a competitive place. Knowledge alone won’t get you where you want to be so getting the chance to work hands on and do some networking is something you should be actively looking for. Building up a good showreel can get a foot in the right door, and there are good and bad ways to do that.
Sometimes, you may need to give your time to a project without being paid to just get started, but don’t be fooled into doing work for just anyone. If a large business is looking for video work then they shouldn’t be taking advantage of your lack of experience. For that reason, we recommend doing some work for small, local businesses in your area, and for charity organisations.
Sending out speculative letters is a good place to start, but don’t be offended if you send out a pile of requests and end up with little or no response. Smaller companies are usually struggling, working with fewer employees, and could really use an eager person who is willing to support their local community and get some experience out of it. Find out the name of the person in charge and write a letter or email personally addressed to them, showing that you know what their company is about and how your skills and interests could benefit them.
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Finding your dream job can seem like a lot of work, especially if you need to work full time in a job you hate just to fund your passion. Try and keep your desire fuelled by getting your creative juices flowing regularly, and continue to work on projects to motivate you as well as produce evidence of your abilities. We religiously take part in the 48 Hour Film Project in Glasgow every year to force us to make a fun short film with an extremely quick turnaround. Anyone from aspiring producers, actors, sound technicians, editors or cinematographers can stand to learn a thing or two whilst having a crazy weekend meeting like-minded people.
Remember that your Facebook at Twitter account can be an important networking tool so try and act professionally or consider creating a separate page for your work life. You should regularly post links to any of your creative work as well as use it as a place to talk to like minded people as well as see job notifications from Media Jobs UK.
Finally, do your research! There are loads of great sites with tips and trick on how to create great content. Be committed to the craft, and your skills will develop, building you a great showreel that you can promote yourself with.
