What do you do if you're torn between pursuing a managerial or executive role in animation?

here are some steps you can consider to help make your decision: -Evaluate your skills and strengths. Consider whether you excel more in team leadership (managerial role) or in strategic thinking (executive role). -Think about your long-term career goals and which role aligns better with your aspirations. Consider where you see yourself in 5-10 years. -Research the specific responsibilities of both roles within your organization or industry. This can help you understand what each role entails and how it fits with your skills and interests. -Talk to mentors, colleagues, or professionals in both roles. Their insights and experiences can provide valuable perspectives to inform your decision.

Who the hell is having this problem? The Animation industry is in shambles… nobody on LinkedIn gives a shit about this stuff. We’ve got hundreds and hundreds if not thousands of animators - including veterans, freshmen and those still trying to score that first gig - who are at an absolute loss as to what to do because no one can find work! LinkedIn needs to get its shit together and stop using AI to generate this tripe.

If torn between pursuing a managerial or executive role in animation, assess your strengths in leadership and strategic vision. Seek mentorship from professionals in both roles, evaluate career goals, and choose based on where you can best leverage your skills to drive team success and creative innovation.

First, I'll assess my strengths and passions. I enjoy the creative process but also find satisfaction in leading teams and strategic planning. I'll also consider how each role aligns with my skills and long-term career goals. I'll seek advice from mentors and industry professionals to gain insights into both paths, Networking with those in managerial and executive positions would also provide valuable perspectives. Then I'll weigh the impact I want to make in the animation industry and chose the path that aligns best with my aspirations and skills. Continuous learning and staying adaptable are key, as both roles require ongoing development and a deep understanding of the industry.

If we talk about deciding between pursuing a managerial or executive role in animation, it's essential to consider your interests, skills, and the realities of the industry. Reflect on what aspects of animation excite you the most. Is it the creative process itself, or do you find more satisfaction in overseeing projects and leading teams? Understanding where your passion lies can help you decide whether a hands-on creative role or a managerial position suits you better. Evaluate your skills not just in animation, but in leadership, communication, and management. Managerial roles often require a strong ability to coordinate between teams, manage budgets, and handle administrative tasks.

Managerial roles, such as production managers or executive producers, often come with more stability compared to purely creative roles which can be project-based and subject to fluctuations in demand. Executive roles in animation, like being a producer, allow you to have a significant impact on projects from a higher vantage point. These positions involve strategic decision-making and can lead to more substantial career growth and opportunities within larger studios or projects.

The joy of animation lies in the direct creation of vibrant worlds and characters, like a painter who brings a blank canvas to life with colour and imagination. Moving into management is more like becoming a curator rather than an artist, where the role shifts from creating art to overseeing processes. This shift can dilute the creative joy and passion that animators thrive on. I have experienced this and I learned that I loved the process of creation more than overseeing. For those who find fulfilment in the act of creation, staying in animation offers a deeper sense of professional satisfaction than transitioning to management. However, it is a personal choice.

Managerial and executive roles can demand a lot of time, often requiring long hours and high responsibility. Consider how this will fit with your personal life and whether you are prepared for the potential stress that can come with higher-level positions. Think about what will keep you fulfilled in the long run. While creative roles can offer more hands-on satisfaction, managerial roles can provide a sense of accomplishment through team success and project completion.

Try to gain experience in both areas. This could be through internships, project management roles, shadowing professionals in both tracks. This exposure can provide valuable insights and help solidify your decision. Consider further education or training in management if you lean towards the executive path. Understanding business management, budgeting, strategic planning can be crucial. Ultimately, the choice between a managerial or executive role and a more direct creative role in animation should align with your personal strengths, career aspirations, and lifestyle preferences. Reflecting on these aspects and seeking experiences in both areas can provide clarity and guide you towards a fulfilling career path in the animation industry.