Boring jobs tend to be unhealthy jobs. Many employees find themselves routinely fearing the imminence of Mondays, and see their careers as no more than an unfortunate necessity for a universal cause - to not go to bed hungry. Yet some of us constantly feel a urge to unleash a stream of creativity. It may be literature, moving images or music, most of which have people already living off these activities as a profession. So if you are confident enough about your inner passion, maybe you should consider an entry into the creative industries. The creative industries are broader than the typical 'music, writing, art' trio that are bandied about. You could be taking pictures of racing cars, trimming topiary bushes, or coming up with ideas for new toys.
The first point is to focus specifically on what you like to do. The creative industries is very broad. Film-making, photography, theatre, publishing and broadcasting are just a minor example of what this sector entails. In reality, employers prefer specialists rather than someone with an entry understanding of "related fields". Take film making as an example: would you be a cinematographer, boom operator, gaffer or a make up artist? In the recording industry, you could either be a sound engineer, or you could design recording studio furniture.
You will also need to consider your prowess in your passion. The fact you are not currently making a career based on your passion is a good indication that your interest is not up to professional standards. If possible, going or returning to tertiary studies may be necessary. Be wary of recognised universities that seem to have a degree in the the creative arts. Truth is universities do not usually have the resources to provide their students with hands-on training, and while that bachelor may make you look smarter than a diploma from some polytechnic school, it is ultimately useless in the industry. Research on individual tertiary providers to pick the ones with the greatest emphasis on practical courses. If possible, speak to someone currently employed in the field to give you good recommendations.
Keeping a good portfolio is of utmost importance. An employer will only be able to judge your potentials based on your own record of your passionate activities. Videos, sound recordings and images are what they will be looking for to determine if you have reached industrial standards. A great way to enrich your portfolio is to include entries to competitions, regardless if you have won anything at all.
Last by not the least, understand the value of networking. Far too many jobs in the creative industries do not appear on the situation vacant section, the reason being they are quickly filled in by friends of friends and alike. Applying as an unpaid intern is an excellent opportunity to make a impression for those veterans of the field. Otherwise, signing up for clubs and festivals related to your interest is another way of becoming noticeable.
Know this, the creative industries is a job sector defined by stiff, passionate competition, and chances of episodic joblessness is not uncommon. Make sure you still hold another consistent employment before shifting your career towards the artistic direction. Going hungry will not help you make greater art to impress.
The first point is to focus specifically on what you like to do. The creative industries is very broad. Film-making, photography, theatre, publishing and broadcasting are just a minor example of what this sector entails. In reality, employers prefer specialists rather than someone with an entry understanding of "related fields". Take film making as an example: would you be a cinematographer, boom operator, gaffer or a make up artist? In the recording industry, you could either be a sound engineer, or you could design recording studio furniture.
You will also need to consider your prowess in your passion. The fact you are not currently making a career based on your passion is a good indication that your interest is not up to professional standards. If possible, going or returning to tertiary studies may be necessary. Be wary of recognised universities that seem to have a degree in the the creative arts. Truth is universities do not usually have the resources to provide their students with hands-on training, and while that bachelor may make you look smarter than a diploma from some polytechnic school, it is ultimately useless in the industry. Research on individual tertiary providers to pick the ones with the greatest emphasis on practical courses. If possible, speak to someone currently employed in the field to give you good recommendations.
Keeping a good portfolio is of utmost importance. An employer will only be able to judge your potentials based on your own record of your passionate activities. Videos, sound recordings and images are what they will be looking for to determine if you have reached industrial standards. A great way to enrich your portfolio is to include entries to competitions, regardless if you have won anything at all.
Last by not the least, understand the value of networking. Far too many jobs in the creative industries do not appear on the situation vacant section, the reason being they are quickly filled in by friends of friends and alike. Applying as an unpaid intern is an excellent opportunity to make a impression for those veterans of the field. Otherwise, signing up for clubs and festivals related to your interest is another way of becoming noticeable.
Know this, the creative industries is a job sector defined by stiff, passionate competition, and chances of episodic joblessness is not uncommon. Make sure you still hold another consistent employment before shifting your career towards the artistic direction. Going hungry will not help you make greater art to impress.
About the Author:
Writing lyrics can be a therapeutic, and ultimately quite lucrative, way of getting into creative writing. With the right contacts you can get your songs recorded and they can supply ongoing royalty income if successful.. This article, What Does it Take to get a Job with Creativity is released under a creative commons attribution license.
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