Land Film Industry Job: 6 Steps, No Experience
Written by  Daisie Team
Published on 7 min read

Contents

  1. Research the industry
  2. Learn about film making
  3. Network with industry professionals
  4. Gain experience through internships
  5. Create a compelling resume
  6. Apply for jobs and ace the interview

Breaking into the film industry may seem daunting, especially if you don't have any experience. But, let's clear one thing up: it's entirely possible. You might be asking yourself, "How to get a job in film with no experience?", and that's exactly what we're going to figure out. Here is a clear, six-step plan to land your dream job in film, regardless of your experience level.

Research the Industry

Getting a job in the film industry, especially with no experience, starts with a solid understanding of the industry itself. You'll need to know what you're getting into and what opportunities are available. Let's discuss some important areas you should look into.

Understanding the Film Industry

First off, the film industry isn't just about directors and actors. There's a whole world behind the scenes that makes the magic happen. From writers to set designers, makeup artists to post-production teams—there's a vast range of roles. So, the first step is:

  • Find out what interests you: Explore different roles and see what suits you. You may be drawn to the creative side, or perhaps the technical aspects are more your style.
  • Get familiar with industry terms: Words like "gaffer," "key grip," and "best boy" might sound strange now, but they're common titles in the film industry.

Next, you need to understand the current landscape of the film industry. What's trending? What opportunities are emerging? Here are some things you can do:

  1. Read industry news: Websites like Variety or Hollywood Reporter can help you stay updated on what's happening in the film world.
  2. Identify growth areas: For instance, demand for digital content has exploded with the rise of streaming platforms. Knowing these trends can steer you toward opportunities.

Remember, researching the industry is key to understanding how to get a job in film with no experience. It's like getting a map before you start a journey. It won't guarantee you'll reach your destination, but it sure makes the trip easier.

Learn About Film Making

Once you've got a grasp on the industry, it's time to dive into the nitty-gritty: filmmaking itself. You don't have to be Spielberg overnight, but a basic understanding of how films are made will certainly give you an edge. So, where do you start?

Master the Basics

Start with the basics, from understanding the process to the tools used in filmmaking. Here's a to-do list for you:

  • Understand the process: Familiarize yourself with the stages of filmmaking, from pre-production to post-production. Each stage is unique and requires different skills.
  • Learn the tools: From cameras to editing software, get to know the tools of the trade. You don't need to be an expert, but understanding what a "dolly shot" is or how "Adobe Premiere Pro" works can be quite handy.

Hands-on Learning

Now that you're familiar with the basics, it's time to learn by doing. Here are a few ways you can get hands-on experience:

  1. Experiment with your own projects: Make a short film, even if it's just on your smartphone. Try editing it with free software. The aim here is to learn, not to win an Oscar.
  2. Join film clubs or groups: Collaborating with like-minded individuals can be a great way to learn. Plus, it's fun!

Learning about filmmaking is a crucial step in understanding how to get a job in film with no experience. It's like learning how to swim before diving into the deep sea. You may not become a professional swimmer, but you'll definitely be able to stay afloat.

Network with Industry Professionals

So, you've done your homework about the film industry and dabbled in filmmaking. Now, it's time to get social. Networking is a powerful tool, especially in an industry like film where who you know can sometimes be as important as what you know. But how exactly do you network with no experience?

Attend Film Events and Festivals

Film events and festivals are like a gold mine of networking opportunities. Here's what you can do:

  • Participate actively: Don't just be a wallflower. Engage in discussions, ask questions, and share your thoughts. Remember, you're there to make connections, not just to watch movies.
  • Be genuine: People appreciate authenticity. Don't pretend to be someone you're not. Instead, share your passion for film and your eagerness to learn.

Utilize Social Media

In today's digital age, social media can be a potent networking tool. Here's how to use it to your advantage:

  1. Follow industry pros: Start by following directors, producers, film studios, and other professionals in the film industry. This will keep you updated on industry trends and give you a sense of the community.
  2. Engage smartly: Make insightful comments on posts, share relevant content, and participate in industry-related discussions. Remember, the goal is to get noticed, not just to rack up likes.

Networking can seem daunting, especially when you're just starting out. But remember, every film professional was once in your shoes, wondering how to get a job in film with no experience. It's all a part of the process. So, put on your best smile, shake some hands, and make some connections. You never know where they might lead.

Gain Experience Through Internships

Experience might not grow on trees but there's a nifty little path that can lead you to some: internships. Internships can provide you with practical skills, industry insights, and a sneak peek into the workings of the film world. So, how do you land an internship in the film industry with no experience?

Search for Internship Opportunities

Internships are everywhere if you know where to look. Here are a couple of avenues you can explore:

  1. Film Studios: Many film studios offer internship programs. Keep an eye on their websites for any open positions.
  2. Job Portals: Websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn often list internships in the film industry. Make sure to customize your search to match your interests.

Make Your Application Stand Out

Applying for an internship can be quite similar to auditioning for a role. You want to stand out from the crowd and make a lasting impression. Here's how:

  • Highlight Your Passion: Sure, you may not have experience but you have passion, and that counts. Use your application to express your love for film and your willingness to learn.
  • Showcase Your Skills: You might not have film-specific skills yet, but skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving can be quite valuable in a film set. Don't shy away from showcasing them.

Remember, an internship is not just a stepping stone to get a job in film with no experience, it's an opportunity to learn, grow, and discover your niche in the film world. So, don't be disheartened by rejections. Stay persistent, stay passionate, and soon you'll be on your way to that dream film job.

Create a Compelling Resume

Having a compelling resume is like having a ticket to the best film premiere — it opens doors. But how do you create a standout resume that catches the eye of the film industry's gatekeepers? Let's break it down.

Know What To Include

What you include in your resume can make or break its effectiveness. Here are some key elements you should consider:

  1. Personal Information: Include your full name, contact information, and a professional email address. Remember, "filmlover123" might not be the best email choice.
  2. Objective Statement: Briefly outline your career goals and why you're interested in the film industry. This is your chance to highlight your passion and ambition.
  3. Skills: List any relevant skills. These might be technical skills like editing or soft skills like communication and team work.
  4. Education: Include any relevant education or training. This can include film courses, workshops, or even online classes.
  5. Experience: Remember those internships we talked about? This is where they shine. Highlight any experience you've gained, no matter how small.

Make It Look Good

Your resume should not only sound good but also look good. Here are some tips to ensure your resume is visually appealing:

  • Keep It Clean: Avoid clutter and ensure your text is easy to read. Bullets can be your best friend here.
  • Stay Professional: While creativity is appreciated in the film industry, keep your resume looking professional. That means no funky fonts or wild colors.
  • Proofread: Your resume should be free of errors. Proofreading ensures you come across as detail-oriented — a great skill in the film world!

Creating a compelling resume is a key step in showing how to get a job in film with no experience. So, put in the effort, make it shine, and it will help you land that dream job!

Apply for Jobs and Ace the Interview

Now that you have a compelling resume, it's time to put it to good use. The next step in your journey on how to get a job in film with no experience is to start applying for jobs and preparing for interviews. Let's dive in.

Where to Find Job Opportunities

Looking for a job in the film industry can feel like hunting for treasure without a map. But don't worry, here are a few places you can start your search:

  • Online Job Boards: Websites like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor often have listings for film industry jobs.
  • Industry Publications: Publications like Variety and The Hollywood Reporter often post job listings.
  • Film Festivals: These are great places to network and often have job postings.

Tailoring Your Application

Applying for jobs is not a one-size-fits-all process. Here's how you can tailor your application to each job:

  1. Read the Job Description: Understand exactly what the job requires and highlight those skills in your application.
  2. Personalize Your Cover Letter: Show why you're interested in the job and how your skills make you the perfect fit.
  3. Follow Application Instructions: If they ask for a PDF resume, don't send a Word doc. Following instructions shows you pay attention to detail.

Acing the Interview

Got an interview? Great! Here's how to make a good impression:

  • Do Your Research: Learn about the company, the role, and the industry trends. Knowledge is power!
  • Practice Common Interview Questions: While you can't predict every question, practicing common ones can help you feel more prepared.
  • Be Yourself: Authenticity goes a long way. Let your passion for film shine through!

Remember, applying for jobs and acing the interview is a lot like filmmaking — it requires preparation, creativity, and a bit of courage. But with these tips, you'll be well on your way to figuring out how to get a job in film with no experience. And who knows? Maybe one day, you'll be the one calling "action!"

If you're eager to learn more about breaking into the film industry with little to no experience, we highly recommend checking out the workshop 'How To Get Your Start As A Filmmaker' by Alex Kahuam. This workshop will provide you with valuable insights and practical advice on how to kickstart your filmmaking career and land that dream job in the film industry.