How can you get feedback from industry professionals on your TV production portfolio and resume?

Industry professionals get asked this a lot by strangers. Try to make a connection with someone, whether you went to high school or college with them, are from the same hometown, etc... They'll feel more inclined to want to help you because you'll have a common bond. If you can't find those connections, reach out to somebody whose work you know/have seen and admire, and let them know that's why you picked them. Sometimes it's all a numbers game and eventually, you get someone at the right time and they'll be willing to help. Be persistent and don't give up.

Start by identifying industry professionals who are actively involved in TV production and have experience relevant to your career goals. This could include former colleagues, supervisors, professors, or professionals you've connected with through industry events or online platforms like LinkedIn.

Alumni networks! Engage with your school’s alumni association. LinkedIn also has an alumni tool. You can use it to find mentors and collaborators. Look for and attend school-hosted events, screenings, and talks. That’s a great way to find new peers that you can collaborate with. Many institutions offer alumni directories. Use these to identify contacts in the TV production field and reach out with a personalized message about your aspirations and request for guidance. Some schools have formal mentorship programs. If yours does, enroll in that and their weekly emails.

Networking is crucial in the TV production industry. Attend industry events, workshops, and seminars to meet professionals in your field. Join relevant online communities or forums where industry insiders gather to discuss trends and share insights. Cultivate genuine relationships with industry professionals by offering assistance, sharing knowledge, and showing genuine interest in their work.

In questi casi Linkedin esprime a pieno il suo valore. Fai una ricerca di profili utili, settala in base non solo a quello che sono come ruolo, ma anche alla grandezza dell'azienda e ad un fattore tuo di gusto, i lavori per esempio che hanno prodotto. Poi scrivigli, siamo sempre tutti alla ricerca di talenti. Se pensi di avere qualcosa da poter offrire, organizzalo per bene in un portfolio sintetico di massimo una pagina e invialo. Cerca una connessione con il decision maker dell'azienda e vai di presentazione

It may sound too obvious... but ask! Drafting a concise and polite email or message introducing yourself, outlining your objectives and above all else explain why their input would be valuable to you and your future career (get them invested!). Additionally, include or provide a link to your portfolio, clarifying the specific type of feedback you're seeking. For instance, request an assessment of your portfolio regarding their content, style, format, size, pertinence, innovation, or effect. Invite suggestions for any enhancements, expansions, or modifications that could refine your portfolio and resume. Don't be afraid to resend/bump your email or follow up with a call. (And remember to say thank you if they help you out!)

When reaching out for feedback, be clear and concise in your request. Politely ask if they would be willing to review your portfolio and resume and provide constructive feedback. Provide them with easy access to your materials, such as a link to your online portfolio or a PDF attachment of your resume. Respect their time and be open to their honest critique.

After receiving feedback, take the time to carefully review and analyze the suggestions provided. Identify areas where improvements can be made and take actionable steps to address them. This might involve updating your portfolio with new projects, revising your resume to highlight relevant skills and experiences, or refining your presentation style.

Don't forget to follow up with a thank-you note to express your gratitude for their time and insights. Let them know how their feedback has helped you improve your portfolio and resume. Continue to stay in touch with your network, providing updates on your progress and offering assistance whenever possible. Building and nurturing these relationships can open doors to future opportunities in the industry.