Furqan's Film and Television Website - How to get that first Production Assistant job

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Now you know a lot more about being a PA, it's time to tell you how to get that first job. You can start by getting a business card printed up. This should be a simple business card with your name, phone number, mobile and pager number on it. Also, in big bold letters, put the words PRODUCTION ASSISTANT. This card will be used to hand to Producers, Production Companies, Production Managers, etc. If you can get to networking meetings where Producers and Production companies meet, you can hand out your card to everyone in the room. Politely introduce yourself and hand them your card. Tell them you're a great PA and eager to work.

You don't need a CV/Resume at this time - especially when you're starting out. Later, when you have more experience on a few jobs, you can make a simple CV. For now, your card will suffice. If you want, you may put such words on your business card as, dependable, reliable, well-organized, etc. For example:-

Make your card with a little flair. After all, making movies and TV is a creative process. Put a picture of a camera or a movie light on your business card. There are lots of clip art objects available that represent movies and television. Don't overload your business card. Make something simple, yet eye-catching. Remember, you don't need to spend a lot to get a nice business card.

Handing out cards is one way to get a job. Another way to get a job as a PA is to contact Production Companies and call them. Ask them if they're in need of a Production Assistant or will be in the future. If they say no, don't hang up!! Always follow up by asking if they know someone who is in need of a PA. The point is that they may not need one, but the company next door may. Also ask them if you could drop a card by in case they do need a PA in the future. The more cards you have out there, the better your chances of getting jobs. Remember, most productions only last a few weeks or a couple of months, so you have to line up future jobs even when you're working.

If you're really having a difficult time finding work, try being an extra (background actor) on a set and then give your PA business card to some crew members and/or the Producer. Getting a job as an extra is easy and it gives you the opportunity to pass out your card. But please don't bother crew members when they're working. Try to give them your card during a break or at lunch. Be polite about it. Say something like, "Hi, I'm so and so. Can I give you my card? If you're ever in need of a good PA, please don't hesitate to call. I'm a very hard working and organized. Thank you." You'll be surprised how receptive they'll be to you. Producers and Production Managers are always on the lookout for a good PA.

Again, by checking production resources such as the LA 411 or, in the UK, The Knowledge. In these publications, you'll find hundreds of names , phone numbers and addresses of Production companies. As was mentioned earlier, call them! If you're timid on the phone (you shouldn't be timid if you want to be a PA), you may write to them and send them your card. When you do have more experience and a CV/Resume, you can send it with your card. If you talk to most Pa's, they find jobs by calling Production Companies or by networking. They join all the local film and TV organizations - and they attend all the organizations' meetings. Now, on with the next section called HOW MUCH MONEY CAN YOU EXPECT TO MAKE ?