Essential Skills To Learn That Can Help You Level Up Between Gigs
Posted on: May 06, 2025
Photo Credit: Dragos Condrea / iStockOne of the most unpredictable parts of working in production is the time between gigs. Some weeks you’re slammed, other weeks you’re wondering when the next gig is going to come your way. The downtime can be frustrating, but it’s also an opportunity to use that time wisely and develop some essential skills.
Instead of stressing about the next call sheet, think of those off days as your chance to level up. Adding just one or two new skills to your tool belt can make you more hirable, more versatile and way more confident when the next opportunity comes along.
Editing
Editing is one of those skills that everyone, from DPs to PAs, should have. Understanding the basics of it sharpens your sense of coverage, continuity and storytelling. Whether you want to cut your own reels, help out a small production or freelance on the side, learning how to edit is a major asset. You don’t have to become a full-time editor to benefit—just knowing how to assemble footage, cut for rhythm and export in different formats can open doors.
Programs like Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve (free version!) or Final Cut Pro are a great starting place to teach yourself editing. YouTube is packed with tutorials, and platforms like Skillshare and LinkedIn Learning offer structured courses if you want to take it further. Having this skill in your arsenal will open doors to new avenues for work, and could even get you a promotion.
Drone Flying and Aerial Cinematography
If you are a camera operator and your goal is to make it a career, then you need to get drone certified. It is an added skill that also comes with a pay bump. Having the certification opens you up to many different kinds of projects—an indie doc, a wedding video or a real estate promo all utilize drones, and these types of projects are easy money for in between your gigs. If you can fly a drone and shoot usable footage, you’ve got a serious edge over others.
Start by learning the basics of flight control and drone safety. Then look into getting certified (like the FAA Part 107 license in the U.S.). From there, it’s all about practice. Flying in open fields, testing different altitudes, learning how to track moving subjects—‚all of it helps.
Podcast Production and Sound Recording
Sound is an essential tool in productions, and podcasts are quickly becoming one of the fastest-growing mediums. Whether you’re already a sound guy or just want to grow your skill base, knowing how to effectively record sound opens you up for all kinds of new work between gigs. Branded content, interview shows or audio storytelling are all avenues this skill could take you, so knowing how to produce and edit a podcast is a surprisingly in-demand skill.
Learn how to record clean audio (Zoom interviews, in-studio sessions, field recordings), edit in software like Audacity or Adobe Audition, and mix for clarity. You’ll also benefit from understanding RSS feeds, publishing platforms and basic audio gear. Additionally, I have seen several reality show productions merging the camera and sound departments, so if you are a cam op that can also run smooth audio, you are setting yourself up to really grow your career.
Social Media Strategy and Content Creation
You don’t need to be an influencer, but understanding how to shoot, cut and optimize content for platforms like Instagram, TikTok and YouTube can be a major asset— especially as more productions dabble in behind-the-scenes and promotional content. I’ve also seen an increasing number of job postings on Staff Me Up for social media content production. These posts often require familiarity with the trends, as well as the vertical shooting style of these social media apps.
Learn the formats (reels, shorts, etc.), understand basic engagement strategies, and maybe even make your own content to practice. If you’re good at this, you could land freelance gigs making trailers, BTS reels, or branded content between bigger jobs.
Scriptwriting and Story Development
Everyone has ideas for a story they want to tell, but turning those ideas into solid scripts or treatments is a skill that can be developed over time. If you’re eyeing a creative role, start learning story structure, formatting, and pitching techniques. The constant search for work and waiting between gigs can get taxing for some, so having the ability to create your own work could essentially keep you working year-round.
Free tools like WriterDuet and Celtx help you get started, and plenty of screenwriting courses break down the fundamentals. Writing your own content gives you more control over your creative path and something to shoot when you’ve got time.
The key to leveling up between gigs isn’t to completely switch roles or become a master but to simply add to your already set skills. Picking one or two new skills that excite you will allow your portfolio and resume to become diverse and grow.
Mastering one of these essential tools will give you a great advantage when the next job comes around. You won’t be just another crew member—you’ll be the one who can edit the behind-the-scenes, fly a drone, fix an audio issue or pitch an idea. And trust me, that kind of versatility gets noticed.
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