By Julian Dismore: TV Series Producer and Media Skills Trainer
Being under house arrest, itâs strange to think that this time last year I was producing a series for Channel 5 called âThe Mega Council Estate Next Doorâ. As well as directing it, I was heavily involved in the casting â walking up and down the streets of London trying to spot potential contributors before approaching them to persuade them to take part. Little did I know, Covid was also stalking the London streets around the same timeâŠ
Shooting the series last February and March was stressful, filming observational documentaries always is, but it was also an enjoyable experience because I had a great team on location. The runner Ivan was one of the best Iâve ever worked with.
All you media wannabes can learn from Ivan when it comes to how to excel in an entry level role. He was never late, extremely hard working, always cheerful, came up with strong ideas, rarely got things wrong, he didnât object to long hours and most importantly he was very nice to me and laughed at my jokes.
Ivanâs reward? An enhanced credit when the show went out (researcher rather than runner) and several glowing references from me which led to lots of work last year despite the global apocalypse.
Being a runner isnât easy, but it is part of the rites of passage and if you canât handle the pressure with a smile on your face then it will take you a lot longer for you to get to where you want to be. You have to remember that the people above you can help you progress â so be nice to them! This isnât like Uni â in the real world you have to get along with people you donât necessary like. Itâs part of being professional.
For more runner advice check out these videosâŠ
What does a TV runner do?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YssXWb2RlDw&list=PLlXkfw89WpLz_JZMMJGwc_U76rnhWquVE&index=5
Advice on how to be a great runner!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UZm0tvRhNfc&list=PLlXkfw89WpLz_JZMMJGwc_U76rnhWquVE&index=1
A minuteâs worth of runner tips
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7eisd8H_HZE&list=PLlXkfw89WpLz_JZMMJGwc_U76rnhWquVE&index=8
For more media career tips come on my online zoom âHow to Get into the Media and How to Get On Once Youâre In!â course on Thursday February 4th. 1pm â 5pm
This four hour zoom workshop includes: generating contacts in the media industry, what to say in your introductory e mail, CV finessing for media jobs, job interview skills with role plays, TV runner skills, TV research skills, insider's tips and career strategy.
If youâd like more information, e mail me at [email protected] or go to https://www.directproductions.co.uk/training-courses where you will find testimonials.
If you canât make the workshop let me know and I can send you a video of a previous workshop and the course handout.
And for blogs, tips and job opportunities, follow us on social mediaâŠ
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TV Series Producer and Media Trainer
www.directproductions.co.uk