Two of the hardest things about the industry are: 1. Getting in. Finding that first job that you will learn from, and one that will also propel you to the next job 2. Staying in. Often, landing that first gig can be easy. Moving on to the next job after can be the hard part. Here are some ways to start finding work, and getting your foot in the door.
Utilize Your network.
Start within your own network. Use every tool you have at your disposal, Facebook, Twitter, Linked In, and even your contact list. FInd out what people are working, what they have coming up, and if they need help.
Offer To Help.
After making that first initial contact, find out if they need some help. If you are just starting out it is ok to ask if you can help. Let them know what skills you have to offer, and what skills you would like to learn from working on that particular project.
Don’t Give Up.
Get used to getting turned down, it is a big part of this industry. If someone turns you down, thanks them for their time, and remind them if they need any help in the future to contact you. Tell them you will continue to be in contact with them as well. Then keep searching.
It took me two months of searching, asking, and applying to finally get my first internship on a film. Looking back all of the other work I tried applying for would have sent me in a completely different direction than I am headed now, and just knowing that helps me realize I took a step in the right direction at the right time.
Question: What helps you initiate contact to get your foot in the door?
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