Hey I saw that you mentioned you were a PA on your post about the most recent game changer (I loved that episode too) and I’m actually trying to get into PA work myself. I will be moving to California this time next year so what would you recommend doing before I make that move? I got a degree in electronic media and broadcasting but it’s been hard trying to find a job in that recently. I appreciate your time and knowledge.
Hello — thank you so much for reaching out! This is going to be a lot, but I just want to make sure I’m covering everything I can think of.
* The first thing I’ll say is, every film market has its own quirks and is a little different from each other — and all film markets, even the big ones like California, are struggling right now. So please don’t get discouraged if you haven’t found anything yet! The nice thing is that every region has at least some production work, so one of the most important things is to be patient and not take it out on yourself if things are slow.
* Make sure you sign up for StaffMeUp and Mandy — I personally use StaffMeUp more, but again, it varies market by market. They are paid websites, unfortunately. However, at least with StaffMeUp, you don’t have to pay to see the jobs that come in your area — and you can pause your subscription whenever.
* On the StaffMeUp and online job website note, don’t worry if you do not have any credits for your resume yet. We all start somewhere. I know a lot of people who got their first PA gig by writing a cover letter that expressed their want to prove themselves. Be confident in your applications, and don’t let a lack of experience discourage you from applying for big gigs.
* One of the best things you can do for yourself is network. The thing that held me back for so long was being too timid to put myself out there, but once I did, it started getting a bit easier. A lot of film community have groups and pages on social media. Every community is going to be a little bit different Facebook, and discord are some of the groups in my area — but a quick google search will probably tell you where those communities are! When you find them, post to them, introduce yourself and say what you want to do!
* On the networking note: what film festivals are in your area? Go to those! Introduce yourself and talk to everyone you can!
* If you know anyone in your area who is working in production, even if they are just an acquaintance, reach out to that person and tell them you’re trying to work as a PA. If you know someone out of state who works in production, tell them to keep you in mind if they ever need a PA in your area.
USEFUL ITEMS TO HAVE AS A PA
Because I have no doubt you’re gonna start booking gigs, make a PA kit for yourself! A reliable bag that contains items that might be useful has helped me more than once. Sharpies, pens, batteries, gaff tape, a sewing kit, hand sanitizer, LiquidIV, Advil (individual packettes, not a bottle), anything you can think of. These aren’t necessities, you’ll definitely be able to do your job without them, but they’ll make your life a lot easier!
* A fanny pack. Having a solid bag on your person to store things is a life saver. Not to mention, it’s a convenient place to put a walker, if you’re on a production that uses them.
* Speaking of walkies — I highly reccomend investing in these or this. The surveillance they give you on set is a best, uncomfortable, and at worse, dysfunctional.
* Gaff Tape. I know I mentioned it above, but trust me, having some is a life saver. It’s the best stuff in the world. Camera/Grip/Electric usually has some in a pinch, but it’s good to have your own.
* A Multitool!! Leatherman or Gerber has good ones — but this is one of those items you will absolutely use every production!
Hope this was helpful, good luck out there!
