Careers in Media

It's not what you know, it's who you know. That's only partially true in the media field.

Yes, the media world is dominated by networking. Job availability is often passed via word-of-mouth and great stress is placed on connections. Make sure your portfolio is top notch and widely available.

Don't have one? Turn to school and well-executed volunteer work to build out your portfolio. The quality of your past work often goes farther to showcase your talent and potential than degrees or qualifications.

The quality of your past work often goes farther to showcase your talent and potential than degrees or qualifications.

The financial crisis was pretty harsh on the field and economic recovery is very slow, so competition is to be expected for the most sought after jobs. An assertive just-barely-cut-throat attitude is also important.

We got that down? Because what's happening in media world today is by far the most exciting stuff that's happened since Gutenberg started tinkering on his press.

Study organisations and look at what they might be developing tomorrow. Embrace new technologies.

The "app" world and the possibilities of digital broadcasting and distribution are only just dawning on us and re-invention of the trade is imminent: Geo-location, mobile broadcasting, social media, livestreaming, and multi-media development, production and so much more.

It is a brave new world out there for media pros and like the constantly evolving tools and markets, you've got to keep moving. You need to stay ahead of the curve, constantly honing and expanding your skill-set. Study potential employers and look at what they might be developing tomorrow. Embrace new technologies.

Featured Organisations

• Channel 4

  

  Channel 4 is a publicly-owned, commercially-funded public service broadcaster which incudes E4, More4, Film4 and 4Music. Learn more 

• IBM

  

  The BBC is the world's best known broadcasting brand with a remit to inform, educate and entertain. Learn more