The Benefits of Mentorship in TV Production
Posted on: Aug 08, 2024
Photo Credit: Meeko Media // ShutterstockThroughout my career in television production, mentorship has played a crucial role in shaping my career. It’s part of how I continue to grow within the industry. As the complexities of TV production grow, the guidance and wisdom of seasoned professionals is invaluable to those seeking to advance in this unstable career.
Mentorship also doesn’t have to remain under the same person (I have learned and been mentored by several people). I have learned and been mentored by several people. By taking the opportunity to talk to and learn from a wide range of mentors, you will become a more well-rounded TV production worker.
Here are five of the many ways that mentorship can impact your life.
Personal Development
One of the most profound impacts of mentorship in TV production is the personal growth and development of mentees. Entering the industry can be daunting, with its long hours, high pressure and constant need for creativity and innovation. Having a mentor provides a sense of stability and reassurance, offering a safe space for newcomers to learn, ask questions and make mistakes without fear of severe repercussions.
Mentors serve as role models, exemplifying the attitudes and behaviors necessary for success in TV production. They offer practical advice on navigating the industry’s challenges, from managing tight deadlines to dealing with difficult personalities. By sharing their own experiences, mentors help mentees understand the realities of the job, setting realistic expectations and fostering resilience.
Skill Acquisition
TV production encompasses a wide range of departments and skills, from technical expertise in camera work and editing, to creative skills in scriptwriting and directing. Mentors play a critical role in this by providing hands-on training and constructive feedback to those they are mentoring. They can identify a mentee’s strengths and weaknesses, tailoring their guidance to address specific areas of improvement.
I started out being really interested in the camera department, but by being exposed to the work producers and production managers do, I realized my skills in logistics would be better suited to those departments and began focusing on fostering new skills. This kind of personalized instruction accelerates the learning process, enabling mentees to develop their skills more rapidly and confidently.
Mentors often have a wealth of industry contacts and can facilitate opportunities for mentees to gain practical experience. Whether it’s securing internships, recommending mentees for freelance gigs or inviting them to observe on-set, mentors open doors that might otherwise remain closed.
Networking
The TV production industry is highly network-driven, with many opportunities arising through personal connections. Mentorship significantly enhances a mentee’s professional network, providing access to a broader range of industry professionals and potential collaborators. Mentors can introduce mentees to key players in the field, from producers and directors to writers and technicians.
These introductions are invaluable, as they often lead to job opportunities, collaborations and long-term professional relationships. Networking through mentorship also helps mentees build a positive reputation within the industry, as they are often vouched for by their mentors, who have established credibility and respect. I can attest that I would not have gotten some of the jobs I’ve had without the backing of some well-respected industry professionals.
Innovation and Creativity
Mentorship is not a one-way street; it benefits both mentors and mentees. Seasoned professionals often find that mentoring reinvigorates their passion for TV production and sparks new ideas. Personally, I have helped refine and bring efficiency to many processes established by my mentors. By engaging with fresh talent, mentors are exposed to new perspectives and innovative approaches that they might not have considered.
This exchange of ideas fosters a culture of creativity and innovation within production teams. Mentees bring a fresh outlook and are often more attuned to emerging trends and technologies. Their enthusiasm and willingness to experiment can inspire mentors to adopt new methods and challenge conventional practices, leading to more dynamic and forward-thinking productions.
Enhancing Inclusion
Diversity and inclusion are critical issues in the TV production industry. Mentorship can play a significant role in promoting inclusion by supporting underrepresented groups and providing them with the guidance and opportunities they need to succeed. Mentors who actively seek to uplift diverse voices help create a more inclusive industry where different perspectives are valued and celebrated.
By mentoring individuals from diverse backgrounds, seasoned professionals can help break down barriers and create a more equitable playing field. This not only benefits the mentees, but also enriches the industry as a whole, leading to more diverse storytelling and a wider range of voices being heard.
The importance of mentorship in TV production cannot be overstated. It is a powerful tool for personal and professional development, skill acquisition and networking. As the TV production landscape continues to evolve, the guidance and support of experienced mentors will remain crucial in shaping the next generation of industry leaders and driving the industry forward. Whether you’re a newcomer seeking guidance or a seasoned professional looking to give back, mentorship is a mutually beneficial relationship that strengthens the entire TV production community.
Benjamin Hickson is an aspiring producer and production coordinator who has 4+ years experience working on various Film and TV projects. He has a background in Public Relations and served for six years in the military. He also has passion for travel and aims to increase LGBTQ+ representation in the entertainment industry.
Browse thousands of jobs and find your next gig! Sign up or login to Staff Me Up and get on-set today!
You may also like: