One of the most popular requests for work experience that we receive at GO Wales is media related. The media industry can be notoriously difficult to break into, with an increasing amount of competition and an increase in the amount of students on media degree courses, what can you do to stand out from the crowd?
GO Wales spoke to graduates currently working in media related businesses in Wales to find out how you can break down the barriers...
Yasmine Alkadi took part in a GO Wales work placement with Element Productions, her role as Production Assistant helped her to gain much needed experience in a media related business and helped her to secure longer term employment.
“Before I left university I was very aware of the limited amount of places and competition in getting a media job. I was part of my University's Graduate Placement Scheme, which put me in a job for 3 months after university. After that I spent a while sending my CV into lots of Production companies in Cardiff to no luck, but fortunately GO Wales had a placement with Element Productions which has been amazing and allowed me work in a company which suits me perfectly!”
“I have learnt so much whilst being here and I have developed in such a short space of time. But the main skills I think would be; my organisational skills, for instance organising shoots, filming days, crew etc…all efficiently and professionally. I have also become skilled dealing with contributors, clients and working under pressure.”
“Best: Developing fun, inspiring, and interesting ideas into stories for audiences to enjoy.”
“Worst: The worry that your ideas may not get commissioned and that work will be limited.”
“I think working in a small business is ideal for me, I felt part of the team straight away, and that my work is always valued and important. It also gives me the opportunity to learn from others quickly as well as making great contacts.”
“Don't give up, learn as much as you can about the company you want to work for, and make sure you have an eye catching CV!”
Faye Hannah works for BAFTA Cymru; she originally did voluntary work experience through GO Wales before landing her role.
The experience I have gained has been invaluable and helped me make some important decisions regarding my future career. The variety of things I have been involved with at BAFTA Cymru, including organising their annual awards and events have greatly expanded my knowledge and skill base.
It is as easy as gaining work experience in any competitive industry- the key really is to keep plugging away at it! I think it is important to talk to people who work in the media and find out how the industry works. Displaying that you can communicate effectively and articulate yourself from the beginning is a definite.
Write letters to suitable employers, volunteer for events and be a part of the industry you wish to enter at a student level.
When you get the placement be keen, go 'above and beyond' and people will remember you for the right reasons- your hard work.
I would not rule it out. I am currently now working for BAFTA Cymru on a more permanent basis and would definitely recommend GO Wales to anyone who wants experience in their field- It has really helped my career to come out of University with a credible CV that includes practical experience as well as an academic qualification.
University arms you with a plethora of knowledge and skills, but it is always useful to arm yourself with practical work based experience to ensure you are presenting yourself to potential employers as the best possible package when you leave university. GO Wales offers some great placements that allow you to do just that!
