Breaking into the Entertainment Industry: A Guide
SO, YOU’RE INTERESTED IN BREAKING INTO THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY?
Well, here’s a guide on some pointers I’ve learned along the way on my own journey into the Entertainment world! Please keep in mind that the following is based on what I’ve found to work for me and are my own personal sentiments. In the end, everyone has their own journey and manner of interaction.
First, a little about me. My name is Jane Nguyen and I just finished my term as UCA’s 2019-2020 Director of Marketing and Branding! I’m from Orange County and I’m a rising 4th-year student at UCLA majoring in Sociology with a minor in Film/TV. When I first entered UCLA, I was actually a Psychology major on the medical school route. A year later, I realized I was miserable and wanted to do something I loved. So if you’re making a huge career pivot towards entertainment, I completely understand where you’re coming from and the obstacles you may face. But trust me, if you love what you’re pursuing in the industry and are willing to work hard, then it is so worth facing the constant rejection in the beginning. My experience in the industry started at a boutique PR agency called Digital Candy PR where I did publicity and social media work in the digital media space for lifestyle and beauty. Afterwards, I interned at UTA (United Talent Agency) where I really got my foot in the door in terms of the Film/TV world. I then had the opportunity to intern at Fox Broadcasting Company (this network is not under Disney, FYI) as a Marketing Strategy Intern. This summer, I am interning at Paramount Pictures as the Multicultural Marketing Intern and at the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences!
One of the most important things to have in this industry is experience. Whether it’s through on-campus jobs, clubs, internships or personal projects - you need to do what you can to get different experiences. It doesn’t have to be entertainment related (though that can help) as long as you’re passionate about what you're doing. Getting experience and having work that you can show helps a ton because it shows initiative, a capacity to be involved, and that you can walk the talk. If you find yourself struggling to land a position or join clubs, that’s fine. Create your own opportunities! Don’t be afraid to cold email about opportunities or work on your own projects. A cold email is actually how I got my first PR internship! As the cool kids say - shoot your shot ;).
As you try to gain experience, a website is a great medium to showcase your personality, interests, and work. I personally found having one really helpful when I first started applying to internships - I used to be asked to walk recruiters through my website during interviews too! Speaking of websites, you should be keeping your LinkedIn profile updated. Recruiters will definitely be looking at your LinkedIn if they look at your resume (note: your LinkedIn url should be on your resume. Make it easy for them). Plus, you can totally ~ stalk ~ interviewers on it before they interview you. If you’re feeling shy, make use of the privacy viewing options on the site.
Know why you want to be in the industry. A ton of people want to work in entertainment. Why do you? You will almost always be asked why you want to work in entertainment and what you want to do in it, so really think about it. A ton of people are trying to break into the industry, so don’t be afraid to get personal. Of course, use your best judgement and do what you’re comfortable with. Connect to them, keep it real, and don’t take too long.
Get to know the people around you - your network starts in college. This is a relationship building business. Build a community and as you do work, try to lift others up with you and grow together. It’s a much better journey when you and your friends succeed together!
A part of this network building is also reaching out to alumni, people on LinkedIn, or individuals that you may work with for coffee chats and informational interviews. If you land an internship, look at individuals in your department - or those of interest - and reach out for a meeting. I recommend giving them the option of coffee or lunch - people usually pick coffee. These chats are a great way to learn and build relationships. Also, don’t be afraid to walk around the office and get to know people on a daily basis either. When I was in the mailroom, I loved talking to everyone while delivering packages. A great piece of advice I once received was to build a funnel. Some individuals you meet may not have a direct relation to your industry or immediately be able to help you, but remember that relationships are a two way street. You shouldn’t expect to only receive help, but also see how you can help others as well. By building this funnel, not only will they potentially be able to help you in the future, but you may be able to help them or a friend! This industry feels like a huge web of people working together and helping one another somehow.
When you’re at work, chuck your pride out the door. No job is beneath you. You do what you can to help with a smile and you figure it out. When they say jump, you ask how high. With that being said, if you can’t figure it out then ask. Better to ask and do something right than wrong!
Be hardworking, but don’t be afraid to stand up for yourself and ask for help. Chances are, someone is willing.
Know your content. Read, watch, listen, whichever aspect of the industry you want to go into try to know as much as you can! It’s impossible to know everything because there’s so much content out there, but try to know your stuff. As you consume content, develop an opinion about it too. Know what you like, what you might want to see more of, etc. It’ll make for much more interesting conversation and interviews! In the same vein, read the news and know the business. Read up on industry news on sites like Deadline, Variety, The Hollywood Reporter and other relevant media sources. I also recommend reading Hollywood Game Plan: How to Land a Job in Film / TV or Digital Entertainment by Carole M. Kirschner.
Show your gratitude. Don’t ever forget to send your thank you emails, thank you cards, or whatever it is. People will be helping you learn, grow and enter the industry so don’t forget to show you appreciation for them! It will mean a ton when they have invested time to help you - they want to know how you’re doing! Send updates, check in with them, etc. It makes a difference! Think about how you’d feel in their shoes.
Everyone’s route is different and unique to themselves, but these are just some general tips I’d give to anyone aspiring to break into the industry. It’s hard not to play the comparison game, but everyone is going through their own stuff, so don’t beat yourself up if you ever feel like you’re not doing enough. Feel free to reach out to me on my website (nguyenjane.com) if you have any questions or just want to talk! I’m always happy to chat. I hope you’re all staying healthy and sane with loved ones during these strange times.
Warm Wishes,
Jane