Runner, broadcasting/film/video : Entry requirements

Getting a position as a runner is often a combination of luck, timing and networking. The industry looks favorably on those with experience and contacts, rather than qualifications. There are no specific educational requirements for becoming a runner. However, a relevant HND, degree or postgraduate qualification, particularly one with a practical focus, may increase your chances of success as this can equip you with an understanding of the industry, practical skills, a work experience placement and useful contacts.

Relevant courses include:

• television/film/media/radio production;
• media and broadcasting skills;
• multimedia;
• drama and theatre.

Before pursuing a higher education qualification, speak to people in the industry about whether it will improve your chances of success. Also, when researching qualifications, look for a course that uses industry-standard equipment, is industry-accredited and ideally includes a work placement. Establish where previous graduates have gained employment and what sort of links the education provider has with the industry. If you are already in higher education, ask at your careers service for up-to-date employer and industry information, along with details of media fairs and events.

If you are taking a degree course that is not directly relevant, you should seize opportunities at university, for example on campus newspapers, radio or TV stations. If you are interested in the technical side, you can get involved with sound or lighting for university stage productions and concerts. Outside university, you could work on hospital and community radio stations, for local and specialist newspapers, or as an usher on studio recordings of entertainment shows.

Candidates will need to show evidence of the following:

• excellent communication and interpersonal skills;
• ability to network with a wide range of people (actors, directors, other departments, caterers, etc);
• physical stamina and resilience;
• initiative and the ability to problem solve;
• flexibility and the ability to think on your feet;
• good research skills;
• excellent time management and organisational skills;
• an understanding of the industry;
• team working skills;
• enthusiasm and motivation;
• ability to remain calm under pressure;
• a proactive disposition.

You will usually need a full, clean driving licence and your own transport. A current first aid certificate and a qualification in health and safety can give you the edge over other candidates.

It is helpful to develop a portfolio, showreel or soundreel of your work (e.g. film shorts, photographs, radio recordings, newspaper articles) that you can send to companies to illustrate your talent. Keeping up to date with changes in technology, finding out what is in pre-production and production, and getting hold of in-house newsletters will put you ahead of the game, as will attending workshops and talks by people in the industry. Entering competitions and showcasing your material at festivals and other events are also ways to get yourself noticed. For example, creating a profile on the BBC Film Network  will guarantee your work is viewed, with the possibility of being published and showcased on the BBC's website. Relevant competitions include the Young Lions Competition  and Film Nation  amongst others.

You may find that you have to do a significant amount of unpaid work experience to get into the industry. Competition for work experience is fierce though and so you need to be prepared to work hard to get it. Networking is essential and you should send your CV to as many production companies and post-production houses as you can. Follow this up with a phone call at a later date (around ten working days later is a good guide) to indicate your enthusiasm for the role.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.