The Problem of Variety: The right way to Get Into the Artistic Business and Keep There
When, like many other BIPOC graduates, I decided to pursue a career in the creative industry, I was aware of the difficulties that would arise when getting in and out. The messages are clear throughout the university experience due to the lack of representation in lecturers or the small representation of others who looked like me during the internship. It was clear that by choosing a career in the creative industry, I had to be the change in the space I wanted to see.
We know the creative industry is notorious for its lack of diversity as the majority of diversity plans fail and promise to ensure better representation that not only recruits people but also aims to keep people effective.
The problem is circular: "The lack of BAME representation in our industry, especially in leadership positions, makes it less attractive to BAME talents, which then affects talent acquisition," says Ete Davies, CEO of Engine Creative in Campaign. "The situation continues and then there is diversity churn."
THE EFFECTS OF CORONAVIRUS ON GRADE SCHEMES
For many, entry into the creative industry takes the form of graduate colleges, internships or internships that specifically require BIPOC talents. But when the coronavirus hit and job security waned, many were just entering the industry as their internships ended.
According to a report by Creative Access and Campaign: “Since the crisis, 85% of current apprentices say that they are either no longer employed after their internship or are unsure whether this will be the case. Before Covid-19, 90% of apprentices ended up working full-time. "
In this challenging environment, how can we better equip the latest generation of BIPOC creatives for the industry if we can continue to find our way in a post-Covid world?
What the university doesn't tell you is that even if you've secured an internship on a graduate program that Covid-19 hasn't scrapped, or that you want to take some time off, it's not a linear process to find your way around the industry. There are no lectures to prepare you for the reality of job hunting in the industry, but here are some things I would like to have known before I started:
SHARE YOUR WORK
A common phrase you come across while interviewing or drinking #virtualcoffees is that people "want to see how you think". Most of the creative industry is visual. Even though you are a great graphic designer or writer, you need to show more for yourself than just your great university grade.
This is a great opportunity to design where you want to go. "Use the time to be thoughtful and ask yourself what you actually enjoy doing, using your interests as a starting point to figure out which direction you want to go," says visual designer Israel Kujore. Since his internship was canceled due to the pandemic, he has been sharing his work in the social field and has received a lot of attention.
"It's important now to share your work," says Kujore. “In the short amount of time I've worked, it has opened up opportunities for me. My tutor at college always said,“ An idea is nothing in your head. ”Try to find balance by making the most of social media and take a break. "
FIND YOUR TRIBE AND NETWORK
“I'm interested in the idea of blue collar creatives, people who are not older but not necessarily younger, and how we can create something together,” says Jamiel Thompson of @londonlovelockdown, a digital network account managed by BIPOC that promotes the online community. "I think working with your culture gives you strength."
It's important to build a relationship with peers across disciplines who you can identify with and collaborate with during this time and beyond as you brush aside all the crass hashtags of #squadgoals that brands and social networks want to buy into.
BUILD A PORTFOLIO
"When you're in college, you have an assignment to stick to, and the work you get isn't a variety. Take the time to figure out what appeals to your interests. Create your own panties that appeal and create work you want to see, ”suggests Nicole Crenstil, co-founder of Black Girl Fest.
Be prepared, however, that the industry may not be ready to get this job: finding lawyers to support your ideas is important.
WORK YOUR LIFT
When you graduate, selling yourself a graduate is typical, but describing yourself the way you want to be seen is important. When you are part of the "Slash Generation" you can have many skills and hats to wear. Reduce them to two or three sentences. When asked what you are doing, it will be clear.
WHAT INDUSTRY CAN DO
While it is important that new graduates prepare as well as possible to enter the industry, adland must actively seek creative BIPOC work by making a conscious choice for their efforts. This can take shape in a variety of forms, e.g. B. through mentoring opportunities and portfolio reviews. There has to be an intent between both parties to create inclusivity that isn't just a hashtag.
Most importantly, whether you're a graduate or a recently unemployed BIPOC, think about how you can capitalize on your culture and interests because the future is yours and your insight is your currency.
Upper picture: Symone Bards; Leonie Annor-Owiredu is a cultural strategist and writer. thisisdiversityinaction.com