Whichever part of the industry you're interested in, you will need to demonstrate a range of technical and transferable skills relevant to this area. Most entry-level positions require you to already have some form of practical experience in the area you are interested in.
For example, if you're interested in script writing - have you written scripts that have been performed (this can be for the stage or film), if you're interested in costume design have you made or designed costumes for a play/short film, do you sew, or do fashion styling in your spare time? It's very important to gain as much practical experience as possible as in this very competitive sector, applicants to entry level positions may already have significant amateur and sometimes professional experience. Having an up to date portfolio/website of your work can also be a good way to demonstrate evidence of your ability.
Getting experience
Getting paid work experience in the sector can sometimes be difficult, especially at the beginning, however there are lots of opportunities to develop your craft and technical skills whilst at university and beyond, which can improve your chances of finding paid opportunities. It’s important to collaborate and find like-minded people to undertake projects with, as working in teams is a core requirement for TV and film productions. Whilst at Oxford, if you're interested in film-making, join The OU Filmmaking Foundation which supports and promotes film making at the university. You can also make your own short films using a Smart Phone – it’s a great (and relatively cheap) way of creating your own work - Screenskills has some tips for filming on your phone
Many of the roles in TV and film can also be found working in stage productions, so working on these is a great way to get relevant experience - get involved in OUDS, OUTTS and/or college productions.
During the vacations, you can also get involved with local drama/film groups and look for work experience opportunities at the various TV and film hubs/studios across the UK, such as Pinewood, Leavesden, Shepperton, Media City.
Even when you leave Oxford you may need to continue a portfolio approach to your career. This involves undertaking a variety roles in order to develop skills and experience, build networks and survive financially. It’s quite typical for new entrants in the industry to have an additional job, that pays the bills and allows them practice their craft in their spare time, to build enough expertise to apply for paid roles. However, a little experience can go a long way – and the people you will be competing against face the same challenges. So if you combine experience, focus, commitment and good research into your chosen areas, you are more likely to stand out from the crowd. Use every experience as a networking opportunity, no matter how small it may seem, as you never know what it may lead to in future.
When making “speculative approaches” you may need to write to a lot of places and receive a lot of rejections (or just don’t hear back) before you get what you want, so be prepared to work at it and tailor your approach to each role. Most film and TV companies have their own websites, so find them, explore them, find a relevant email address and write to them. When writing, explain, who you are (briefly), why you want to work for them (write about their work), what you can offer them/which skills you can bring to the organisation. Clearly express your interest in your applications and demonstrate your enthusiasm for new ideas – always supporting this with real examples of your work/previous experience, If you’ve been making your own films, writing, designing etc, it’s important to let them know.
Also, be persistent, perhaps contact them every few months to remind them that you’re still interested and you never know, the right opportunity may appear several months after your initial contact.
What to do during your work experience
When you have the opportunity to get hands-on experience, seize the opportunity to build and cultivate a reputation for being hard-working, personable and willing to go the extra mile. In all of your jobs, make a contribution and learn what you can: get involved and don’t become frustrated if you seem to be asked to do anything and everything by the team. One Oxford alumnus commented that “time spent making a cup of tea is never time wasted – and there’s often a chance for a chat when you deliver that cuppa”.
- Work hard and be professional – in an often high pressured environment, it’s important to demonstrate the same level of commitment and professionalism as your colleagues.
- Be engaged, interact with your colleagues and be friendly – this is an industry built on networks and often involves long hours, so people need to want to be in your presence for long periods of time.
- Talk to your colleagues: getting on with people is crucial, but most importantly genuine passion for the job or the programme you are associated with will show and that will be appreciated.
- Ask people about their jobs (choose an appropriate time) – learn about the job from as many different perspectives as you can, ask them how they got to their current position. People usually like talking about themselves and their experiences, but choose your moment! Don’t start quizzing them if they are busy.
- Make yourself indispensable – the more people can rely on you, the better your chances of keeping the current job or getting another contract.
- Make other peoples’ lives easier – anticipate what needs to be done and do it for them or volunteer your services. Look for solutions rather than bring problems.
- Be prepared to put in that extra shift… to stay on to help clear up at the end of the day. Your next job will probably come through word of mouth, so being willing to help the team to the end is a good reputation to foster.
In this industry “you are your brand” so make sure that you reflect the image you would like to portray in everything you do. Periodically check your on-line presence on a range of search engines and make sure any social media accounts also correlate with your chosen professional image – your future employers may check!
