Breaking into a creative industry can be tough, especially when the number of people applying outweighs the number of jobs readily available. It is essential that you stand out from the crowd and show why you should be chosen over your competition. Seize every opportunity that you come across because no matter how small it may seem – it can always lead onto bigger prospects. However, there are a number of ways you can further your chances and secure a role in your chosen profession.
1. Work experience
Paid or unpaid, placements and internships are a great way to gain experience and boost your career prospects. Whether they are closely related to your career choice or not, the extra practical knowledge will give you a competitive edge over your opposition. Placements and entry level opportunities will help you connect and establish relationships with professionals who work in the field, giving you 'a foot in the door', hopefully landing you with a more permanent position or a role more suited to you.
2. Knowing it all inside-out
Keeping abreast of updates in the industry will help develop and secure your knowledge. If you feel you are lacking in a particular area, take up training courses to keep you on top of your field. Training can provide new opportunities and teach new skills so take advantage of the courses that are out there for your subject.
3. Interview Preparation
Creative industry interviews are different to formal interviews. You will be encouraged to be yourself and let your personality show. Dress smart with an edge to help visually display that you are an innovative person. Hair accessories, coloured scarves or designer watches are great accessories to add to a business casual outfit. By adding your own style, people are more likely to remember you amongst those who dress similar, but keep it professional. During your interview, your prospective employer will like to see what work you have undertaken already. Bring with you a portfolio of work and visual imagery that displays your creative skills, related to the role you are applying for.
4. Get involved!
It's not just what you know but who you know too! Networking is the perfect way to develop relationships with other industry members and open up those golden opportunities. Use social network sites to follow influencers in the industry and find out what events they are attending. For some events you will have to pay a fee but many are free so it is good to know who is attending and work out who you want to meet. Research your industry thoroughly so you can be involved in conversations and attend workshops and seminars to show commitment and interest in your chosen field.
Showing your passion for a job is important in any line of work but even more so in the creative sector. Strengthen your online presence in online communities and social sites such as Twitter and Linked In and create your own blog so you can demonstrate your interests. Persevere with want you want to achieve and start up for yourself. The more you show you have been pro-active and taken the first steps on your own, the more people will be impressed with your dedication and motivation to succeed. Be positive, enthusiastic, and fresh with ideas and I promise you will be recognised for your hard work. So keep your mind open to new possibilities and network with other people in the industry at every opportunity.
Read more:
Art Jobs Perfect for Fine Arts Majors - an advanced and updated 2500+ word article on the range of possible jobs for talented artists.