Class is now in session! Welcome to the Title’s alternative learning platform dedicated to navigating everything within the creative industry – with a little treat at the end for those who are currently job seekers.
There is a certain mystique about careers in the creative industries, not least because the way into them rarely follows the four-year degree, internship and entry-level job route. But even as the creative industry chews up and spits out more and more ambitious young talents, more and more creatives are determined to get on board.
But as we’ve all probably experienced, applying for jobs in the creative industries is no piece of cake, and more often than not, your application for a role may not be considered, and you may not receive any useful feedback as to why it was rejected.
So there are a few pieces of advice we would like to share. Starting with: Never underestimate the importance of assistant positions. Work experience, internships and volunteering can help you learn and develop skills, and in many cases are the usual routes into employment in the sector. Such opportunities provide an insight into industry practices and allow you to make contacts and gain confidence. A period of work experience, volunteering or work experience will also help you stand out to potential employers. Even if high-level positions such as senior level and creative director seem more appealing, and even if many people see these jobs as their professional future, you can’t just apply for them – not without the necessary experience in the business. Good grades at university and sophisticated concepts are no substitute for experience and a certain know-how that can only be gained through practice. Confidence is good – realism is better.
And the creative world isn’t just made up of designers, editors, stylists and creative directors. If you enjoy working on set and in production, you can also build a career as a set designer (or assistant). The opportunities are endless. Another tip is to find your focus. It’s great to be a creative chameleon – but it’s even better to find a niche where you can be an expert. Remember, the creative industry is diverse, and there are numerous roles and opportunities. As you gain experience and refine your skills, you may find yourself specializing in a specific area or transitioning to different roles within the industry.
It’s fair to say there is an unspoken pressure surrounding young people entering the creative industry. Whether you’ve been through higher education or not, it’s difficult to understand exactly how your peers appear to be scoring commissions and jobs. And, with social media often escalating feelings of imposter syndrome or comparisons, the first few years of breaking into the industry are likely to be the most isolating of a hopeful creative’s career.
The pandemic of course, hasn’t exactly helped this. Opportunities to meet likeminded creatives have diminished due to restrictions, as well as chances to head out and source inspiration. Most of all, the effects of the pandemic have undoubtedly caused additional mental pressure on daily life, understandably having a knock on effect on an individual’s capacity to feel comfortably creative.
The creative industry is notorious for being exclusionary, for its lack of genuine access, as well as being highly competitive and jobs aren’t always formally advertised. While having the right qualifications and work experience will go a long way to securing your first job, you’ll need to put yourself out there through networking opportunities to get noticed. Having the confidence to market yourself is very important. Joining professional bodies relevant to your field will help you keep up to date with networking events, conferences and workshops – all useful opportunities to meet industry professionals and promote your skills
Navigating the creative industries demands perseverance, networking, and acknowledgment of existing disparities. Despite challenges, shared experiences and advice from fellow creatives shed light on possibilities within this dynamic realm. The journey may be isolating at times, but it serves as a reminder that creativity is not just a career path but a source of hope for those finding their place in the vibrant and competitive creative landscape.
Lost in the abundance of job options? Here is a brief overview of possible opportunities in different areas:
Conde Nast is seeking a Video Producer.
Coperni is seeking a Leather Goods Designer in Paris.
JW Anderson is looking for a Leather Goods & Accessories Trainee.
House of Sunny is seeking a Production Assistant.
Netflix is hiring a Creative Assistant, Content – Animated Series.
Dunhill is looking for a Product Development Intern.
BY THE WAY: The National Trust has just launched the Time + Space Award. Entries are open now to anyone aged 16-25 and close on 30 April 2024. Each award is worth up to the equivalent of £5,000 and includes a package of mentoring, expert support, time at Woolsthorpe Manor, resources, expenses and more to help the winners bring their big idea to life.
