Discovering and applying for positions in entertainment can not only be frustrating, but also time consuming due to the fragmented nature of the industry. From news reporters to costume designers, entertainment poses a diverse market for any job seeker interested in this career path. Fortunately, the advent of the internet and mobile applications have made finding a career in the entertainment industry much less daunting. Today, job-search engines have simplified the process of acquiring your dream job. These resources allow talent seekers to post internship opportunities and job listings directly to online boards made readily available to a large pool of potential candidates. Especially in the entertainment industry, it is important to remain passionate, persistent and patient during your job-seeking process since your “big break” might not come right away.
Traditionally, networking in the entertainment industry heavily relied on word of mouth. Although this adage still rings true, there are various other avenues than highroller sponsored events for self-promotion. Due to advancements in technology, it has never been easier to build your own website. For example, you can purchase a domain through Godaddy.com and then set up a digital portfolio. A fruitful strategy in setting up a page would be to include your headshot, resume and demo reel. This will allow you to create value through an online persona while increasing the chance of getting recognized.
If you are not confident enough or interested in building your own image from scratch, there are several other popular user-friendly resources that can be put to your advantage. Dubbed as the professional Facebook, LinkedIn is a platform for any business professional looking to connect with others within their preferred niche of an industry. With fierce competition at your heels, leveraging LinkedIn through content (e.g. recommendations, endorsements, past work) and outreach is quintessential to establishing a strong network. In addition, leads as to internships and jobs are constantly littered throughout LinkedIn’s news feed. Another viable and often underutilized resource is WorkinEntertainment.com. Although the job board site requires a membership fee, it offers a customized approach to applying to employers in TV, Radio, Film, Music, etc. Rather than painstakingly raking the internet for various listings, WorkinEntertainment.com complies them in one spot for easy reference. In other words, spend less time searching and more time applying for open positions on WorkinEntertainment.com.
Before unlocking your full potential in the entertainment industry, first you have to buy into the system. Like other emerging entertainers, you most likely have to maintain a day job in order to pay the bills. In your free time, it is imperative to continue to hone your competitive advantage so that you can gain recognition in your respective craft. Getting your foot in the door is not always found with connections. Often connections carry no weight if you have no work to show for yourself. Setting short and long-term goals can keep you on track in achieving a successful career in entertainment. Recognize that many highs and lows are accompanied with this challenging yet exciting career path; but investing time in various methods of self-promotion and your craft will ensure a step in the right direction.
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