Media work experience

Almost all media jobs will require you to have some experience under your belt, whether it is working for the university magazine or spending your holidays at a TV studio. Below are our top tips to making your work experience count.

1: Choose carefully

There are limited opportunities to work in the media, but don’t just take any old job that is offered. Make sure that you will be getting a good taste of what life in the industry is like, rather than spending two weeks stuck photocopying in an office.

2: Ask questions

You want to know what it’s like, right? So ask the people you’re working with. How did you get here? How do you find it? What do you enjoy? Do you have any advice? If you don’t ask, you’ll never know.

3: Make contacts

The media industry relies on relationships. That guy you met at the office drinks may well be hiring for your dream job one day, or he might know someone who knows someone. So make a good impression and, if possible, take names and numbers and keep in touch.

4: Don’t mug yourself

Whilst you will probably be expected to undertake some work experience for free, don’t let yourself get into debt to do it. Most legitimate companies who offer experience will offer to pay your expenses or give you lunch while you’re working, so ask when you apply!

5: Present your experience

Don’t forget that you’re doing this for a reason. Make sure you add the experience to your CV so that employers can see your enthusiasm. Also make sure that you secure a good reference from the company – it will help you get ahead in other applications.

Related links

• Media links
• Building media contacts

Your shout!

Do you have any tips for finding media work experience? Share your thoughts by posting a comment using the link below.