Understanding how to turn your education into a thriving career in the creative sector can be daunting task. It’s essential to understand that finding your place whether in music, games, film, or other creative industries, requires more than just talent. It involves strategic planning, networking and embarking on a continuous quest to learn and adapt to these fast-moving industries.
You should start with a clear understanding of your strengths, interests, and the various roles that your chosen creative industry encompasses. At SAE we have a range of courses that can kickstart your career, here’s our top tips and advice for securing a job in your dream field.
From building a compelling portfolio to leveraging industry-specific job boards, and from harnessing the power of networking to staying adaptable and resilient, these tips are designed to equip you with the tools you need to turn your creative passion into a thriving professional career.
Top Tips for landing a creative job
Build a Strong Portfolio:
Showcase Your Best Work: Whether it’s design, film, writing, or coding, your portfolio is your calling card. Make sure it highlights your best and most relevant work.
Online Presence: Use platforms like Behance, Vimeo, ArtStation, or GitHub (for developers) to showcase your portfolio online.
Network Extensively:
Industry Events: Attend conferences, workshops, and seminars. Events like GDC for game developers or NAB Show for broadcasters are great for networking.
Social Media: Engage with industry professionals on platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and even Instagram, depending on your field.
Join Professional Groups: Online forums and local meet-up groups can be valuable for making connections. You can check out our blog on online forums in your specific field of study here.
Stay Informed and Keep Learning:
Follow Industry News: Stay updated with trends and news in your industry. Websites, podcasts, and industry journals are good resources.
Continuous Learning: Take online courses to upgrade your skills and stay relevant. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and Skillshare offer many industry-specific courses.
Internships and Entry-Level Positions:
Start Small: Be open to internships and entry-level positions, as they can be stepping stones to more significant opportunities.
Check Company Websites: Many companies list their internship programs on their websites.
Utilise Job Boards and Career Services:
Specialised Job Boards: Use industry-specific job boards. For example, CreativeHeads.net for VFX and animation, or Behance Jobs for designers.
University Career Services: At SAE we can provide you with advice on support on taking next steps in your creative career, get in touch today.
Freelancing and Project-Based Work:
Platforms: Use freelancing platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer to find project-based work.
Personal Network: Sometimes, the best opportunities come from your own network. Let your contacts know you’re available for freelance work.
Prepare for Interviews:
Research the Company: Know their work, culture, and recent projects.
Practice Your Skills: Be ready to discuss your portfolio and possibly perform a skill test.
Follow Up:
Thank You Notes: Send a thank you email after interviews or significant interactions.
Stay in Touch: Keep in contact with your professional network, even if it’s just a check-in email or sharing an article of common interest.
Stay Positive and Persistent:
Resilience: The creative industries can be competitive. Stay positive and keep applying, even if you face rejections.
Feedback: If possible, ask for feedback from interviews to improve your chances next time.
Consider Alternative Paths:
Related Fields: Sometimes, starting in a related field can open doors to your desired industry.
Side Projects: Personal projects can sometimes lead to job opportunities by showcasing your passion and skill.
Remember, each creative sector has its nuances in job hunting, so tailor your approach accordingly. Keep honing your craft, be proactive in seeking opportunities, and stay engaged with the creative community.
Essential Tips in your Subject Area
From honing your craft in Audio Production with a portfolio that resonates with the industry’s pulse, to leveraging the power of digital platforms in Online Marketing; from immersing yourself in the collaborative world of Film Production, to pushing the boundaries of imagination in Game Design and Art; each area demands a unique approach.
These tips aim to provide a roadmap, helping you to navigate the intricate landscapes of these fields, ensuring you are well-equipped to turn your specialized skills and passions into a rewarding career.
Audio Production
Industry Websites: Such as AudioGang, Sound on Sound, and Mix Online.
Networking: Join local or online audio engineering groups, and attend conventions like NAMM.
Studio Internships: Reach out to local studios to inquire about internships or entry-level positions.
Freelance Platforms: Such as SoundBetter or Upwork.
Content Creation and Online Marketing
Social Media: Platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook often have job listings and groups dedicated to content marketing.
Blogs & Websites: Such as Content Marketing Institute, HubSpot, and Copyblogger.
Freelance Platforms: Such as Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr.
Film Production
Film Festivals: Attend events like Cannes, Sundance, or local film festivals for networking.
Industry Websites: Such as Mandy Network, ProductionHub, and Stage 32.
Film Schools: Many schools offer placement programs or have connections within the industry.
Game Design
Conventions: Attend events like GDC (Game Developers Conference) or PAX.
Websites: Such as Gamasutra Jobs, IGDA job board, or game job forums.
Game Jams: Participate in events like Ludum Dare or Global Game Jam to showcase skills and meet like-minded people.
Game Art and Animation
Portfolios: Sites like ArtStation or Behance to showcase your work.
Industry Websites: Polycount forum, CGSociety, and Animation Guild.
Game Studios: Apply directly to studios like Blizzard, Riot Games, or Ubisoft.
Games Programming
Github: Showcase your projects and contribute to open-source game projects.
Forums: Such as Unity forum, Unreal Engine forums, and Stack Overflow.
Game Development Platforms: Look for job postings on Unity Connect or Unreal Engine job boards.
Music Business
Networking: Join associations like the Recording Academy or ASCAP.
Industry Websites: Such as Billboard Jobs, Music Business Worldwide, or Hypebot.
Record Labels: Check for internship or job opportunities at both major and independent labels.
Visual Effects and Animation
Portfolio Sites: Showcase your work on sites like Vimeo, Behance, or Dribbble.
Industry Forums: Such as CGTalk or VFX Talk.
Studios: Apply directly to VFX studios like ILM, Weta, or Framestore.
Web Development
Github: Showcase your coding projects and repositories.
Online Communities: Such as Stack Overflow, Reddit’s r/webdev, or FreeCodeCamp forum.
Job Boards: Websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, or more tech-focused ones like Dice and AngelList.
Ready to take your next steps with SAE? Click here to find out more on how to apply.
With a range of courses in Audio Production, Games Programming and Website Development get your creative career kick started today. Check out our courses here.
