Creative arts and culture : Entry and progression

How do I find a job?

• Word of mouth is a common method of finding work in this sector and networking is essential.
• Social media can be an effective tool for finding opportunities as well as a good way to promote yourself. Ensure your account or profile is professional. A global communication platform for creatives is provided by the Creative Services Guide . 
• Connecting with local creative/cultural communities will help and get involved with festivals, events, networking evenings and gallery openings.
• Attend careers fairs, trade shows and exhibitions, and join professional bodies and support agencies and attend their seminars.
• Many vacancies are not advertised, so consider producing a speculative application. If you have a particular specialism, such as science writing, concentrate on those niche publishers.
• Look out for opportunities on websites of main professional organisations and trade associations.
• Many people find success in this industry after a period of voluntary work, so be prepared to work for nothing or very little until you find your feet.
• Be prepared to take short-term contracts/projects or a temporary job as a way in.
• Join vacancy bulletin mailing lists. Try professional bodies and careers sites such as Creative Choices  and ArtsHub .
• Study related journals and magazines, e.g. The Stage , a-n: The Artists Information Company , British Journal of Photography , for job advertisements and articles.
• For some careers it is essential to have a portfolio. Produce a traditional one along with a digital version or feature your work on a website.
• Attend portfolio and CV advice sessions or audition skills workshops, which are usually available through your university careers service. Detailed advice on writing an effective creative CV and real-life CVs are available in the published Creative CV Guide.
• Many people in the creative and cultural industries are self-employed. For information on working for yourself see self-employment.

Find out more about job application advice.

What skills do I need?

It is likely you will require some, or all, of the following:

• business skills;
• ability to network;
• determined attitude and commitment to your work;
• self-belief and confidence;
• ability to generate and develop ideas;
• good communication skills (written, verbal and visual);
• technical ability;
• time management and organisational skills;
• research skills;
• ability to work independently and with others;
• willingness to work long hours without financial reward.

Where can I find work experience?

• Work experience is essential in this industry to improve your job prospects, build credibility and gain valuable contacts.
• Most people find work experience through word of mouth, so it is important to network. Social media is also a good tool for finding opportunities.
• It is normal to apply speculatively for work experience. Locate organisations in trade, professional body and support agencies directories.
• Placements and internships are advertised on the websites of professional bodies, creative support agencies and individual companies.

Is postgraduate study useful?

• While the majority of those working in this industry do have degrees or higher-level qualifications it is possible to have a successful career based upon the strength of your ability alone.
• In some areas, such as glass blowing/designing, proven craft skills are regarded as more important than a postgraduate qualification.
• In other areas such as art therapy, higher education lecturing and some cultural heritage careers a postgraduate qualification is considered essential.
• Postgraduate courses can develop performance skills, networking abilities or design specialisms and can be invaluable and sometimes essential in furthering your career.
• If you are considering postgraduate study, check that it will enhance your career prospects and whether there are any funding opportunities available.

For entry details relating to specific creative arts jobs see job roles.

How can my career develop?

• Initially, rates of pay will be basic but should improve as you develop your professional reputation and portfolio. You may want to consider specialising and promoting your skills to a targeted market to improve your prospects.
• As a fine crafts designer-maker, you should work on developing your original work to a good standard and promoting it through exhibitions and seeking commissions.
• Published writers are at an advantage when approaching publishing houses. When submitting your work, always ask for feedback on your writing style and content.
• Photographers, designers and artists must stay in touch with key facilities and contacts, so networking is essential, supported by a good portfolio of work. Consider sharing studio costs, and stay up to date with technological advances. Enter national photographic competitions to build your reputation.
• In some larger companies and organisations, it can be possible to work your way up from entry level, through to senior position and then management. However, in smaller companies, you may need to frequently move employers in order to advance professionally.
• Many people continue to portfolio work and may develop a second career alongside. Teaching is common.
• Depending on the size of your company there may be little support for training and you may have to find, fund and complete the training in your own time.