What are some of the reasons why you might want to expand your career options and/or transition to a different part of the entertainment industry or outside this industry?

• Lack of work
  • Changing industry
  • Work leaving the city/country
  • Lack of seniority/contacts
• Physical condition – short term condition vs. long term condition
• Age
• Natural disasters
• Burnout
• Quality of life
• Financial security/planning
• Family considerations
• Caregiving
• Ready for a change

There’s a lot that goes into the decision to make a change – whether short or long term. What’s most important to you and where can you be flexible?

• Financial security – ability to pay my bills every month
• Maintaining a certain lifestyle
• Being available for my family
• Staying in the same or a similar job/craft
  • Willingness  to work in a different area of the entertainment industry
  • Willingness to take any position in order to stay in the same area
• Maintaining my professional identity
• Staying in the same region, or open to new location

Think about your priorities:

• Standard hours or flexible hours
• Pension
• Benefits
• Paid vacation
• Travel
• Job security
• Financial security
• Creativity
• Respect
• Independence
• Positive workplace culture
• Less physically demanding
• Better mental health

Take some time to think about what you don’t like doing, and also what your limitations may be:

• I don’t want to travel
• I’m not good with people
• I don’t like working for others
• I like to work alone
• I don’t like a 9-5 job
• I don’t want to be in a standard office environment
• I’m not  good with writing skills
• I’m not good with math
• I can’t stand for long periods
• I can’t lift heavy things
• I have other physical concerns that can affect my job performance

Now take the time to identify your strengths and what you enjoy:

• I’m good at organization
• I like working with my hands
• I have a lot of physical strength
• I enjoy using my artistic skills
• I’m good at problem solving
• I like meeting and dealing with people
• I’m an effective communicator
• I enjoy teaching others
• I’m good at math
• I like working with computers and new technology
• I’m not afraid of heights
• I’m very safety conscious

Think about what comes naturally to you. These are “soft skills” and are very important to potential employers.

• Do you like to learn new things?
• Has anyone ever told you you’re a good listener?
• Do you have good communication skills?
• Do you like to collaborate with others or would you rather work alone?
• Do you prefer to focus on one task at a time or do you prefer to juggle multiple tasks simultaneously?
• Do you find last minute changes easy to manage or do they cause you stress?
• Are you resilient?
• Do people enjoy working with you?
• Do you have a positive attitude?
• Do you like to spend time networking with people?
• Do you stay cool under pressure?
• Can you be there for others when they need extra support?
• Are you a self-starter?
• Are you a critical thinker?
• How do you respond to other people’s expectations and attitudes?
• How do you respond to other people’s stress levels?

Do you have any specialized training, certifications, skills? It’s important to highlight these for potential employers – they can help you stand out.

• Are you engaging in continuing education?
• Do you have any certifications? ETCP, OSHA 10, OSHA 30, Forklift, MEWP, crane or large machinery, First Aid/CPR, Mental Health First Aid, SPRAT, CTS, welding, etc.
• Can you read plans and drawings?
• Do you have a commercial driver’s license?
• What software are you proficient in?
• Do you have experience teaching?
• Do you speak other languages?

Do you want to work in another part of the entertainment industry? Have you explored what kind of jobs exist in these sectors?

Many skills are easily transferable, but when you are moving into another sector of the industry be aware of differences in culture, terminology, equipment, and practices. No matter how accomplished you are in your field, be humble and let them know you are willing to learn and adapt to a new arena.

If you’re willing to contribute in any capacity in order to get your foot in the door and meet people, you will create new opportunities for yourself.

• Live (performing arts, music touring, corporate industrials, themed environments, cruise ships, casinos, houses of worship, educational institutions, etc.)
• Motion picture and television production
• Broadcast (sports, news, etc.)
• Commercial and print
• Tradeshows and conventions
• Sales, rentals, manufacturing, design, construction, installation
• Industry related (health and safety, marketing, etc.)
• Education/training

Would you prefer to work outside the entertainment industry? You’ve identified your skills sets and strengths, now think about how you could use them in other industries. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Many industries are hiring and your skills, experience and the right attitude might be just what they need. While some positions might require additional education or credentials, there may be a variety of other jobs available in these fields. See our resume writing tips.

• Do you have a skill set used in the construction trades? Electricians, carpenters, painters and other crafts are often in high demand. For example, if you are a union member, see if the construction local in your craft has an overhire list.
• Are you good at organization? Many industries need project coordinators/managers. This includes events, construction and installations to name a few. 
• Are you good with numbers? Many companies need estimators, surveyors and analysts. Think construction, installers, insurance, banks.
• Are you tech savvy? Many organizations need IT people at all levels – think companies, educational institutions, houses of worship, healthcare.
• Are you artistic? For example, set decorators, property masters, and scenic designers could look for work in interior design, real estate staging, party planning or themed environments such as museums, escape rooms, retail, and dining.
• Do you enjoy interfacing with people? Sales and customer service jobs are available in almost every industry.