If you have a passion for art, design, music, film, writing or any other creative field, or you'd quite like to turn your hobby into a career and make a living doing what you love? you’re not alone.
Many young people are drawn to the creative industries, which offer exciting and rewarding opportunities for those with artistic talent and vision. But how do you get started in this competitive and fast-changing sector? and what skills might you need to succeed? Let's get into it...
What are the creative industries?
The creative industries are a broad term that covers a range of economic activities that involve creativity as a key factor. These include:
- Advertising and marketing
- Architecture
- Crafts
- Design (graphics, illustration, fashion, games, animation, interiors, etc.)
- Fashion
- Film, TV, video, radio and photography
- IT, software and computer services
- Publishing
- Museums, galleries and libraries
- Music, performing and visual arts
The creative industries are great to enter because these roles are growing rapidly.
The UK’s creative industries sector contributed £109billion to the economy in 2021, and has been growing rapidly thanks to digital technologies such as web design, animation and game design. You’ll also find opportunities in advertising and marketing, architecture, crafts, fashion, film, TV, video, radio and photography, IT, software and computer services, publishing, museums, galleries and libraries, music, performing and visual arts.
That's a pretty big deal, and shows just how huge this industry is!
The creative industries are also an exciting area to work in, it's full of innovative and dynamic roles and projects. There is constant evolving and adapting of new technologies and trends, such as web design, animation, game design, TV and Film, virtual reality and 3D printing, AI, Multiverse production and so on. So there is always new and exciting opportunities for creative people to explore.
🤩 CRIW Apprenticeship - YouTube
So, what skills do you need for creative jobs?
The skills you need for creative jobs depend on the specific role and industry you are interested in.
But, these are some general basic skills that you should be improving right now to succeed in any job.
💬 Communication - You need to be able to express your ideas clearly and confidently, as well as listen to feedback and collaborate with others. Communication skills are essential for working with clients, customers, colleagues and managers.
🧑💻 Digital skills - You need to be familiar with various software and tools that are used in your field, such as Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere Pro, etc. You also need to be able to adapt to new technologies and platforms as they emerge.
🤹♂️ Flexibility - You need to be able to cope with changing demands, deadlines and expectations, as well as work on multiple projects at once. You also need to be open to new ideas and approaches, and willing to learn new skills.
🤝 Teamwork - You need to be able to work well with others, whether they are your colleagues, clients or customers. You need to respect different opinions and perspectives, and contribute to a positive and productive work environment.
Once you've worked on the more soft skills, above. The specific or more technical skills depends on your chosen career paths.
Let's take Film Maker as an example, where you could specialise in the following:
Cinematography - This is the skill of crafting the moving images that make up a film. It involves deciding what to include in each shot, how to light it, how to move the camera and how to create a visual story.
Screenwriting - This is the skill of writing the script for a film. It involves creating the characters, dialogue, plot, structure and tone of the story. It also involves following the format and conventions of screenwriting.
Filmmaking equipment expertise - This is the skill of using the various equipment that is needed for making a film, such as cameras, lenses, microphones, lights, tripods, etc. It involves knowing how to operate, maintain and troubleshoot the equipment.
Editing and filmmaking software expertise - This is the skill of using the software that is used for editing and enhancing the film footage, such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, After Effects, etc. It involves knowing how to cut, trim, splice, transition, add effects and soundtracks to the film.
📺 Here's our recommended playlist for other creative roles - YouTube
How can you showcase your creative skills?
If you're already creating, it's a good idea to build a portfolio of work that demonstrates your talent and abilities. A portfolio is a collection of samples of your work that you can show online or in person.
Your portfolio could include:
- A variety of projects that showcase your range of skills and styles
- Your best work that reflects your personal brand and vision
- Work that is relevant to the job or industry you are applying for
- Work that is original and unique
- Work that is polished and professional
You can also include any awards, certifications or courses that you have completed that are relevant to your field. These can help you show your achievements, qualifications and commitment to learning.
🤩 How I Made My Online Portfolio! - YouTube
The creative industries are a great sector for young people who want to pursue their passion and make a difference in the world. There are many creative jobs available for those with artistic talent, a flair for design or a desire to perform or create.
We encourage you to develop your basic and creative skills, showcase your work and network with others. We often share creative opportunities on our social channels, just hit the icons below and don't miss out!
You've got this! 😎✌️
Gem Hallett, miFuture Founder.
www.miFuture.co.uk | @miFutureSkills
