Most of us have dreamt of a life of endless sights and thrilling adventures. We’re captivated by the creative industry as it is one of the fields that allow you to work and play. Yet, most of us are unsure when, where, and how to break into this industry.

Julian Dismore, an acclaimed producer and director who has produced a range of shows for various broadcasters, including BBC1, Animal Planet, and Netflix returned for this year’s Careers in creative industries week (CICI), where Julian lent us his expertise and shared his tips on how you can successfully get in and get on in the media industry. 

Generating media contacts

Similar to most industries in the modern century, it’s about who you know and what you know. Fear not! You know more than you think you do: 

1. Connect with your friends, classmates, and professors. They might have experience in the media industry or know someone in the industry. 
2. It’s always the darkest under the lighthouse: We tend to overlook information that is readily available to us e.g., film credits disclose the company that produced the film.
3. Utilise the digital landscape. It only takes a few clicks, a few words, and a few seconds to get to know someone. LinkedIn is one of the most powerful networking tools online right now. We have a plethora of resources dedicated to navigating LinkedIn – make sure to check those out!

Sending cold emails 

Most networking happens through social media. In fact, nearly 70% of employers use social media to conduct research on their candidates through the hiring process. However, there are employers that still prefer to communicate through formal networks i.e., emails. Here are some tips on how to properly send cold emails to employers from content to delivery: 

1. Practice brevity
   In your email, clearly state what you want from them and why they should give it to you. Avoid cliches such as “keen and enthusiastic” and pretentious speech e.g., writing an entire spiel about the history of media. 
2. Sell yourself, don’t “offer” yourself
   Your email should not be a cry for help. Instead, showcase your skills, what you bring to the party, and why they should want you to be part of their team. Let them know your worth and what they’re missing!

Tip: use your personal email, not your academic email address. You’re representing yourself, your school does not show what you bring to the table.

Mastering your CV

When it comes to a career in media your curriculum vitae (CV) is one of the most significant elements in the job hunting and hiring process. CVs in the creative industry can be quite unique and your work experience and available skills can take precedence over your degree.

1. Work experience
   Firstly, list out relevant media work, other jobs and extracurriculars. It’s also good to outline any media related technical and soft skills that you have.Don’t underestimate work in service industries, it shows who you are and what you can do outside of your projects. For example, being a customer service assistant shows that you can socialise with all walks of life, which is an advantage in the industry and outside while you’re doing fieldwork.
2. Education
   For those who are wanting to transition into the creative industries but may feel unfit due to their degree, everything will be okay! Having a degree in media studies is not essential, although it may help you understand fundamentals in the industry.A soil that is not cultivated will not bear fruit. Your degree is merely a piece of paper in the industry without work experience. Julian has a degree in Economics but has a flourishing career in the media industry! 

Excelling your interview 

To prepare for your interview, treat it as an exam. Do your research on the company, the job, anticipate questions, and sketch out your answers. Prepare for this stage, because it might just change your life. 

Have realistic expectations

1. It’s a competitive market
   Work hard in the next few years to gain work experience (unpaid/informal experience holds value), gain relevant skills, and expand your network.
2. No real job security
   There are usually short term contracts and inconsistent hours.
3. No in-house training
   Short term contracts mean that companies do not have the incentive to invest in training you themselves. 
4. Tough work
   It’s not a 9-5 job; you work as much to finish your project on time and to your standards. However, always remember that hard work always pays off! 

This is a soft reminder to reflect and ask yourself if this is what you’re passionate about, because despite the trials and tribulations:

“If you love your job, you won’t have to work a single day.”

This blog summarises key points from Julian’s session. Listen back to the full recording on CareerHub. Julian Dismore is a Factual TV Series Producer and Media Skills Trainer. Find out more about Julian on his website and via Instagram and Facebook @directproductionsuk.

Find out more about a career in the creative industries through our alumni careers panel and sector guides.