Entry-level jobs
You'll probably have to start in a junior role until you've proven that you have the necessary skills and attributes to work in the creative media industries. Most people's first work experience in media is as a Trainee/Assistant or as a Runner.
The difference between a Runner and a Trainee is that while a Trainee is training for a particular job, a Runner is a general assistant who makes himself or herself useful supporting the entire production team. Work experience as a runner in a production company - even if you end up delivering the post to the different departments - can be a good way of getting to know what each department does and who works in them. And you can ask questions as you're doing the rounds.
Runners are not usually well paid, and if you have no previous experience you may be asked to work for the minimum wage or even on a voluntary basis (e.g. if it's a self-funded short film). While no one likes the idea of working for a pittance, you also shouldn't allow yourself to be exploited (see Work experience guidelines). Still, there are a number of plus sides:
- Employers will be able to see you can do your job
- You'll be able to put down some work experience on your CV
- Employers often value work experience over academic qualifications
- You'll gain a real insight into the industry
- You could make invaluable contacts
- You could get a good reference, or even sidestep from one area to another
