In the last post, Paul Griffiths gave us some great tips for successful job searches and interviews. Let's take a closer look at one technique he mentioned– the S.T.A.R. technique – using examples from his original post. Every question that an interviewer asks you is an attempt to find out whether your experience matches the job requirements. S.T.A.R. gives you a framework to answer those questions in a logical manner, so you can effectively share your work experience. S.T.A.R. = Situation … [Read more...]
Beyond FOH: Job Search Advice For Sound Engineers
Subscribe on iTunes or SoundCloud. In this episode of Sound Design Live, I speak with pro audio recruitment consultant and talent acquisition manager Paul Griffiths about job search and how to prepare for interviews. We also discuss lateral movement within the field of pro audio − for example, how a sound engineer or musician might transfer their technical and customer service experience into a tech support position or a sound designer could turn their experience into a project manager … [Read more...]
Best Tips For Building A Career In Pro Audio
In my interview with Harry Mack, he gave us a lot of great tips for building a career as a freelance designer. I originally contacted Harry because of the article he wrote for Gamasutra called Best Tips for Building a Freelance Career. I'd like to combine the valuable advice from those sources and apply it to a career in pro audio as a sound engineer or designer. Always Be Professional Use correct grammar and spelling in emails, with no shorthand. Speak clearly, confidently, and to the point. … [Read more...]
Career Advice For Freelance Designers
Subscribe on iTunes or SoundCloud. In this episode of Sound Design Live, I speak with blogger, composer, and game sound designer Harry Mack about career advice for freelance designers. We cover the pros and cons of being an independent contractor, how to communicate professionally, and the best and worst job-hunting strategies. We also discuss the bidding process, strategies for knowing how much to charge, and using Yoga to recover from stress and injury. It all comes down to luck. It's kind … [Read more...]
Easy Invoicing For Sound Engineers
In the last two posts we talked a lot about career advice and how to always be professional. Don't worry, I'm not going to rant about email this time -- I'm going to rant about invoicing instead! As an independent contractor, you will invoice your clients. If you work semi-regularly at an event venue you may be asked to submit a W-9, but you can still request to take care of your own invoicing, thereby avoiding automatic tax withholding by the client. Whether or not this route is right for … [Read more...]