Working at a Rental Place

Sorry, no Crew Call episode today. We conducted an interview, but the recording got messed up.{{1}} Instead, here’s a regular ol’ blog post.

Lana writes in:

I currently work at a camera rental house and am constantly in communication with production coordinators on shows around town. I recently have been talking through email with a coordinator on a show that we just did some work for. I’d like to approach them about work but, for multiple reasons, I’m slightly hesitant.

I understand the boss could find out, but I’m not too worried about that. I just want to approach this person professionally and defiantly but in the circumstances I’ve been given.

Speaking of Crew Call, several of our guests have suggested doing exactly this– get a job at a rental house, so you can get to know the people that work in production. Now, obviously, working at a camera place, you’re more likely to run into camera assistants than anyone else, but as Lana demonstrates, you never know who you’ll meet.

The first thing to keep in mind is, don’t just straight-up ask for a job. The most likely answer is “No,” and you’ll sound presumptuous.

Instead, develop a rapport with them. Be friendly and professional. Do your job very, very well. (Why would the coordinator hire you if you’re not doing your current job well?)

It looks as if Lana has followed the above steps. After you’re comfortable, you can send an email (or have a chat on the phone) where you mention that you’re interested in working in production. You’d be happy to send along your resume, if she has an opening, or knows someone who does.

That’s it. Simple as that. I don’t imagine the coordinator would mention it to your boss, or that your boss would care. This sort of thing happens all the time.

[[1]]Irreparably, this time.[[1]]