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Potential employers
Having a passion for what you do is essential to work in the Creative Industries and always remember that people who work at something they actively enjoy generally do much better at their job than people who dont. Identifying what you are good at and choosing a course that reflects your abilities and plays to your strengths is essential. If you find it difficult to recognise your strengths and weaknesses ask your tutors, peers or colleagues. Some trade and manufacturers publications may offer free or trial-period subscriptions to freelancers eg In Camera (a Kodak publication), The Photographer (BIPP), Exposure (a Fuji publication), Televisual (The Business Magazine for the Broadcast and Production Industry), Regional Film & Video (recommended for freelancers working outside London), and www.screendaily. com has international production news and listings.
Helpline Numbers:
England & Northern Ireland 08080 300 900 | Scotland 0808 100 8094 | Wales 0800 0121815 You can also access the service via Typetalk - 18001 08080 300 900 or Minicom - 08000 568 865
www.creativeskillset.org/careers
2. Effective networking
The Creative Industries are built on networking and doing this effectively can help you to develop your career. The idea is to build up a network of contacts that you can call on for help, advice, and jobs. You have to know why you are networking, so work out who and what you need to know. You might not see an immediate benefit, but over time you will increase your knowledge of your own profession and make useful contacts. Be prepared to share information as well.
Also available in large print, Braille, audiotape and PC formatted disc formats.
Helpline Numbers:
England & Northern Ireland 08080 300 900 | Scotland 0808 100 8094 | Wales 0800 0121815 You can also access the service via Typetalk - 18001 08080 300 900 or Minicom - 08000 568 865
www.creativeskillset.org/careers
Dear [NAME] (find out the best person to contact. Dont just rely on trade directories which can go out of date quickly)
Paragraph 1
Say something positive/interesting/relevant about their company: I was interested to read, in last weeks Broadcast/Edge/BJP about the new work you are doing in the [NAME] sector... Or At a recent meeting, I had a very interesting conversation with [NAME] and s/he suggested that the experience I have gained with (NAME of other companies) could be of interest to you... Or Ive noticed on your website...
Paragraph 2
Introduce yourself in a positive way eg As a freelance [JOB TITLE] I have worked on a variety of projects, but I am increasingly committed to the [TYPE OF PRODUCTION/ PROJECT] where I feel my particular skills and knowledge [ELABORATE...] are used to the full. In particular, the experience I gained during [EXAMPLE] could be relevant to the type of commission/work your company specialises in.
Paragraph 3
Dont ask for a job, ask to meet, eg I would welcome the opportunity to meet you, or one of your colleagues, to find out more about your plans for the future, and discuss how my skills and enthusiasm for your work could contribute to the continuing success of [COMPANY NAME] in the future. I attach a CV and look forward to hearing from you [and remember to follow up yourself]. Yours sincerely.
Also available in large print, Braille, audiotape and PC formatted disc formats.
Helpline Numbers:
England & Northern Ireland 08080 300 900 | Scotland 0808 100 8094 | Wales 0800 0121815 You can also access the service via Typetalk - 18001 08080 300 900 or Minicom - 08000 568 865
www.creativeskillset.org/careers
5. And finally
In this business, maintaining personal contacts and networking are vital. Keep in touch with your contacts even when you are not looking for work. Ask about their current projects and future plans. Be prepared to do a few favours it often pays back. Above all, keep positive!
Not
A lways ask the person you meet whether they can recommend you to other sources of advice, and if you can use their name in any approach. A lways thank them for their help. Follow up with a thank you after your meeting.
Also available in large print, Braille, audiotape and PC formatted disc formats.
Helpline Numbers:
England & Northern Ireland 08080 300 900 | Scotland 0808 100 8094 | Wales 0800 0121815 You can also access the service via Typetalk - 18001 08080 300 900 or Minicom - 08000 568 865
www.creativeskillset.org/careers