How to gain confidence as a producer
In a previous post, we talked about the benefits of professional development for producers and how it can help provide a blueprint for success. Here is our next installment.
It’s no secret that in order to do their jobs well, producers need to be comfortable and well-poised no matter what task they are responsible for fulfilling. Confidence wears well on everyone. It can be faked, but not for long. People will eventually see that you’re wearing a knock-off. The way that you gain confidence is by sharpening your skill set.
Are you just transitioning into the industry? Do you want to be a coordinator? Well, then start learning about the geography of motion and post-production studios. What are the main organizational functions? What’s your role relative to others in the studio? Learn to analyze schedules and budgets, keep notes organized and people informed! This is the backbone of all production work and if you want to make a splash on your debut into the scene, preparation is key.
What about leveling up? Are you ready to start running projects? Start digging into the nitty-gritty of the project life cycle. Ask yourself, “What do I need to do during each phase to make a project run smoothly?” Do you know what goes into a Scope Proposal and why? What about how you can assist the Head of Production in making one, or how you can leverage it when projects start to derail? How about resourcing? Do you know how to set your studio and your team up effectively? If not, learn it. Only then will your team recognize that you don’t just wear the suit but that it’s truly tailor-made.
Are you ready to move to leadership and start running teams rather than just working on individual projects? If so, get ready to add some flare to your wardrobe. Start by layering on effective resource management skills. Do you know what it takes to spot and address potential resourcing hiccups? What about dealing with HR and external vendors to keep things running smoothly? The Head of Production deals with all of this and more!
As Head of Production, you aren’t just responsible for juggling resources—you need to wear many different ensembles! You need to promote the financial health of the studio and strengthen internal and external relationships. So, if you don’t know how to do this already, you’d better learn. Do you know how to establish and monitor service rates and profit margin minimums? Do you know how to use these rates to gauge profit margins across projects? Do you know how to build and secure long-term relationships with clients to ensure the future financial health of the company? Get ready to weave all of this into your daily-ware.
Fortunately, no matter whether you are making your debut or aiming to be the headliner of the show, you don’t have to learn these skills on your own. There are resources and a community of producers out there to help you!
