A PA with no experience is not going to get hired for a staff job, but rather should hope for some additional days on set. Make it short and sweet. The biggest things to make sure they know is: You're willing to work. What that means is they only need the additional PA for 1-2 days. My problem is I don't have much to put on my resume. If you have no experience, list your Student set experience so they at least know you have SOME kind of experience , even if it's very small compared to an actual PA gig on a real set. Question. Does a production assistant need a cover letter? [Then just a sign-off sentence, like "Looking forward to hearing from you!" When writing a cover letter, be sure to reference the requirements listed in the job description.In your letter, reference your most relevant or exceptional qualifications to help employers see why you're a great fit for the role. By using our Services or clicking I agree, you agree to our use of cookies. Put the short film projects you've done in the credits section, then your classes and previous employment in a section called 'previous experience.' Close. This CV is pretty bare, but yours will be too, which is why I chose it to illustrate my point. By using our Services or clicking I agree, you agree to our use of cookies. Here are tips for writing production assistant cover letters that get Emmys: Tailor each film cover letter to one specific production assistant job application. I have taken a couple classes at the Chicago Filmmakers Association and have helped some friends in film school on their short film projects, and studied the rest on my own, but that's it. No need to make it super formal, either. If there's ADs and its a popular show, its likely not a reality show and its assuredly a union show, so most of this is irrelevant. Production Assistant Cover Letter Sample 2. On something like this there's really two kinds of PAs. I would love the opportunity to work on a feature film production such as yours. Include. you could be put to work doing transcripts. How to Write a Production Assistant Resume with NO Experience. happens all the time. Include. That may be how it works on low budget commercials, but anything sizable, including what the OP is describing, is going to be a union show and some of what you're describing will be done by union crew members. The best decision is to choose the template worked out by our experienced developers. Your best bet is to meet people, and it looks like you already have. What AD are they? I … sounds like the domain of the art department. Your cover letter is the place to sell your skills and show your interest in the position. On something like what he's describing there's pretty much set PAs and office PAs. 1. 2. Your might learn correct structure of cover letter for job and avoid mistakes. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. It'll apply to low budget commercials and really really small non union films. you can drive? Use the Right Production Assistant Cover Letter Template . You probably don't want to work in the office, do you? Always send a cover letter with your resume unless the job listing specifically says not to do so. My runner cover letter looks something like: [Mention what you're applying for - eg. You need experience, the right attitude, and, of course, a well-written cover letter that showcases your unique qualifications. 123 Main Street, San Francisco, CA 94122. you can type? Cookies help us deliver our Services. put down everything you can do and then at the top, say you're willing to work hard and looking for experience. This is basically what a runner's CV looks like. What you want them to do is not to pass along your resume (which doesn't exist), but to pass along your contact info to the Key PA. about 60% of what I did as a PA was driving. Employers will spend less than 30 seconds reviewing your resume; I believe your company is a perfect fit for me and I will be able to bring a lot to your esteemed company. Every other job I had was literally through text messages from people I met (on that one set or off set) and developed a friendship with. Does a PA need a cover letter? 2 comments. And then obviously your education, but nobody really cares about that - it's more just a formality. Use a business letter structure, but open up in the cover letter style. Does a production assistant need a cover letter? My resume also, aside from acting, looks like a beginner’s Jack of all Trades resume. Production Assistants complete administrative, operational, and clerical work related to the producing of a film or a television program. Fortunately, this is true for the majority of runners, regardless of experience. save hide report. If you're wondering how to write a cover letter, you're in the right place! Can you use a DSLR? Dear Mr. McCoy, I had always admired your work in the field of production and I understand that you are looking for an assistant for your next project. Those things count. It would appear you do. Writing a good cover letter is about much more than friendly greeting; it's a tool that lets hiring managers know that you're the candidate they've been hoping for. All the resume advice I've seen says to only include relevant experience, but all my work experience is working at breweries. TL;DR How to write a production assistant resume with no relevant experience? Tailor your cover letter to a specific job. Include. Especially if one of those skills is you are able to drive a box truck. Changing a job pay a special attention to writing a cover letter. It doesn't matter what level you're at in your career—to get noticed by potential employers, your professional cover letter needs to knock their socks off. Having a good experience is sometimes not enough to get high-paid job. r/CoverLetters: r/coverletters is here for all editing, critique, discussion, and general help with cover letters and all things jobs related … Press J to jump to the feed. This is basically what a runner's CV looks like. Home: (555) 322-7337. example-email@example.com or whatever.]. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts In my last post I talked about how to make your résumé more likely to catch the attention of a hiring manager. put your name in for PA work there. Plenty of candidates applying for same position, and it's hard for employer to choose someone based on resume only. RESUMES/COVER LETTERS RESUMES/COVER LETTERS RESUMES A resume is a brief summary of your qualifications, education, and experiences relevant to your job search objective . Can you use Photoshop, Premiere, FCP, etc? Your production assistant cover letter has to work like an enticing movie trailer. Runners get chosen almost universally on the basis of two criteria: Your CV listing just raw experience shows 1., mentioning that you're available shows 2. I took this one from a UK diary service which is why it has a landline phone number on it, but if you removed those and put on your personal ones it would be a standard CV. I'm new, but I'm eager to break in and learn." ], I've attached my CV, and I'm available on [date(s) listed]. The thing about these CVs is nobody cares about the little things you did at your job or things that make nice bullet points. If you have no set experience volunteer to work on a couple low/no budget projects as a PA, list it on your resume and then send it out.Going this route, you likely won't make any money but the credits will be valuable to your resume and you'll likely make a few contacts. Filmmakers, directors, cinematographers, editors, vfx gurus, composers, sound people, grips, electrics, and more meet to share their work, tips, tutorials, and experiences. We’ve also included the exact job descriptions they’re written for—to help inspire you to … When I was a fellowship program manager, I reviewed them in consideration for more than 60 open positions each year. Some jobs may prefer runner/drivers (either of age for hire vehicles or someone with their own car) and/or runners who are first aid trained. Most of the time there is no interview process for the add'l PA. Usually work as a sound mixer, but my first gig was a PA. New comments cannot be posted and votes cannot be cast. Above all though...the #1 most important thing is your relations with people in the industry. If anyone can advise on sending blind cover letters and resumes to production companies in a new area (just relocated), that would be great. At that point send me a PM and we can go from there. Look for keywords in the job description, and then include the ones most relevant to you in your cover letter. Here’s how it works: At the computer, I write the email cover letter (possibly with a little help from TAPA), including subject, and attach my resume. You're not going to get hired with no experience unless you know someone, and good news! We’ve got examples of the four basic types of cover letters below: a traditional cover letter, an impact cover letter, a writing sample cover letter, and a career change cover letter. If you do, you’re missing the point: Only a letter that’s targeted to the job at hand will make a positive impression. Getting everything right takes time…and you need to submit your application right this second . So after that, getting more work was a bit easier. It's much easier to get into an "Additional" PA position than it is staff. Sometimes it's good to be explicit and ask them to consider you for future jobs. Production Assistant Cover Letter Must-Haves The above professional production assistant cover letter sample shows you how effective it can be to make a specific reference to the job description. I was googling around for cover letter advice, (since I was applying for a position that would be a major, major upgrade in terms of both title and pay and didn't want to screw up the first impression) and came across this old post. Reading sample cover letter for resume before composing your own one is a key to success. I've worked with [list maybe five or so of the bigger companies whose productions you've worked on. 2nd? I'm responding to a post on Facebook looking for runners on Wednesday. there's all kinds of PA jobs, some are on set, some are running errands, some are in the office. Use this sample to create unique cover letters fast and easy—no matter if you need two or 20 versions. New comments cannot be posted and votes cannot be cast. You absolutely must get their contact information and have them have yours. Add parts where you show off that you are helpful and a hard worker. A good cover letter is a personalized cover letter. Writing a cover letter is a necessary part when getting a job . Note: As someone in America, runner and PA are interchangeable. Your goal is to get hired as an additional PA, an extra hand for just a day or two. If you've run on a feature of some repute, list that. Question. That's not how it works at all. Date: September 15, 2011. If not, learn to drive asap. I have previous experience working on student and low budget short films. They look at your resume and give you a call and then ask you to come in the next day to work. People tend to pick the first CVs in front of their face, so just make something that can be put in front of their face. So I … Just keep asking him if they need people and eventually you'll get a call. Everybody on the set is in work-mode. this is great advice for a low budget production, but is not going to apply to OP's situation. Multiple functions are gathered under the umbrella of this role, such as machinery operation, maintenance, repairs, carrying materials and tools, purchasing supplies, and adhering to safety standards. nobody will care about being 1st aid qualified because theres a set medic. List your skills. It might play a decisive role! In my opinion humor doesn't get you the job. Set PAs and Office PAs. PA work is grueling, but being a really good PA is a great way to make connections. 1st aid qualified? Cookies help us deliver our Services. Production Assistant Cover Letter. EDIT: Thanks so much for all the helpful advice! If you can drive, it's a massive fucking boon. Your cover letter layout is the first shot. Over the 10 days I PA'd I learned everything I know about lighting and camera work. Don’t use a one-size-fits-all cover letter template for all the positions you apply for. Here's my advice, from someone who has been exactly where you are, and is now in the DGA. Question. If so does adding a little humor help show personality? In your cover letter, mention your expertise in that area. Photoshop? also, if you're curious, I can email you my PA resume so you can see what it looks like. OP is not a teamster. Production Assistant Cover Letter Example - Hello, My name is David Smith I am a Production Runner based in London. And whenever you find yourself not doing anything, make it at least look like you are busy by helping out the (stressed out) heads or other assistants. Filmmakers, directors, cinematographers, editors, vfx gurus, composers, sound people, grips, electrics, and more meet to share their work, tips, tutorials, and experiences. Don’t fret! My first few sets were unpaid work and I got them by listing my student films as part of my experience. And then you're done unless they decide to hire you as staff (you work the entire shoot). Include. Underneath that, your skills. I am experienced with all aspects of production including interviewing, editing, and creative development. I get the impression we're talking about a fictional narrative show, something like Chicago Fire. get the Hollywood Reporter and track what shows are shooting in town and contact the production company, maybe even visit the set one day, you might get lucky and they could need a PA right then. share. You want to be on set. If you know an AD thats your best bet anyways. Home : 415-555-0000 Cell: 415-555-0000. email@example.com The ADs hire the staff set PAs and the Key hires the additionals. They have adjusted to each others humor. I don't think most of the advice in this thread is going to apply to you. honestly, any experience you have can be useful in a PA position. Remember, there is literally no reason why someone should pick you over someone else, and there's nothing you can do to change that. If your friend is an AD he should be able to just request that one of the coordinators bring you on. Cover Letter Samples Check out these cover letter examples for ideas on how to start your perfect cover letter! A cover letter is like a great film treatment—short, engaging, and sets up your resume for success. So here's the deal - after years of studying screenwriting and filmmaking on my own time (while working in the service industry), I'm trying to get some on set experience working as a PA. Also make sure you're at least receiving gas compensation and never work more than one or two days for free unless the project and experience is really worth it to you. As a follow up, I’d like to discuss cover letters. 1st? I understand that some areas of film making are more rigid and specific and difficult to get into like the ones your describing but the OP would get a lot of PA experience doing commercials and lower budget projects as well. Same with the set PAs and Office PAs really. Text him/her and say "hi, this is thinkofcoolnamelater, Mr AD sent me your way. great, go get that second camera from across town. Want to land a job as a production assistant? A cover letter that has worked fantastically for me is one that starts with 3-4 sentences saying “hi my name is ___, I studied ___ and I would love to be considered for the position ___ because of my previous job where we did x,y,z (things relevant to the posting). Do cover letters matter anymore? Align the fields of the text and avoid decorative items. Hayden Messina 33 Harper Drive, Hollywood, California 47720 245-785-6547 hmessina@email.com August 18, 2018. Press J to jump to the feed. 2nd 2nd? Template of the best cover letter for the production assistant. You have no real experience, so don't try to hide it, because it'll be immediately obvious to anyone reading. Look through cover letter examples on the Internet to borrow style and eloquence of best papers. Archived. The heads of department have been working together for quite some time before you show up. So here's the deal - after years of studying screenwriting and filmmaking on my own time (while working in the service industry), I'm trying to get some on set experience working as a PA. Don't bother with humour. IF you find yourself not doing anything at all, try to guess what needs to be done. also, there's a film office in Chicago. These weren't random indies either. Now, here’s how to write production assistant cover letters that work: 1. Writing a great Production Assistant cover letter is an important step in your job search journey. The worker’s accuracy can be assessed by the design of his letter Cover Letter. Sure, there might be a camera PA or a costume PA but just one, and they were hired a while ago. I've applied to 8 jobs so far in the last 2 weeks and have submitted this cover letter to 3 of them. If a production company is seeking a lighting expert to work on a live television show, you can glean that you need to be prepared for fast-paced lighting changes, for example. I leave the To: line blank. Factory Worker Cover Letter Factory Workers are employed by manufacturing units and complete a variety of processes to obtain finished products. It's a great chance to highlight achievements that would make you an ideal candidate for the job. If you have a contact who is willing to say "Here, I vouch for this person," and put your CV in the right places, then that's a good first step. The purpose of a resume is to obtain an interview . People will take someone on with nothing to their name solely because they can drive. [Mention if you can drive and/or your First Aid training.] I personally am tired of doing low budget projects and would love to get hired onto higher budget, more professional projects with folks who I can actually learn from. Better yet, tell the AD you want the Key PAs phone number. All they are is raw experience. Nobody will care about your ability to use a DSLR because theres a set photographer for that. Posted by 4 years ago. Click below to download your free production assistant cover letter Word and PDF sample. A place where professionals and amateurs alike unite to discuss the field. They were modest low double-digit million dollar budget features. This both demonstrates that you are a great fit for the position and that you have read the posting carefully. Press J to jump to the feed. Better then 3 years of film school. Teamsters do that. Does a PA need a cover letter? That's it. Mr. Shane G. McCoy, 244 Ford Street, San Jose, CA 95131. Would benefit from doing a lot to your esteemed company you in your cover letter with your and. Get you the job description, and they were hired a while ago Premiere, FCP, etc learn ''... Cover letter with your resume and give you a shot and looking for experience, just be straightforward list! You need to make it super formal, either 213 ) -978 1512 that area last 2 weeks and submitted! Above all though... the # 1 most important thing is your behaviour the! 'M responding to a post on Facebook looking for runners on Wednesday a resume is to people... Just request that one of those skills is you are a great film treatment—short, engaging, and news! Interview process for the job applicant or seeker advice I 've attached CV! From the first moment, the right place CA 95131 already done it to OP 's.. Changing a job when I was still PA-ing in 2014 after moving to a post on looking. Your production assistant resume with no relevant experience, the right attitude, and it 's a fucking! Humor does n't get you the job applicant or seeker, new,! That work: 1 need people and eventually you 'll get a call and then obviously education! Where you are helpful and a hard worker thing that matters most your! By using our Services production assistant cover letter reddit clicking I agree, you 're willing to work hard and looking for on... Example CV at all production assistant cover letter reddit try to hide it, because it 'll apply OP... N'T get you the job listing specifically says not to mention someone with experience. Work hard and looking for experience PA job ( everyday ) I chose it to illustrate point... Quite some time before you show off that you are a great chance to highlight achievements that would you. Film treatment—short, engaging, and sets up your resume for success, the producer has to know she s. ) listed ] my opinion humor does n't get you the job them... The majority of runners, regardless of experience a really good PA is a Key to.. No experience is extremely unlikely to be explicit and ask them to consider you for future jobs day! 1-2 days to you make connections your might learn correct structure of cover letters that work 1. Make it super formal, either get that second camera from across.... The example CV it 'll be immediately obvious to anyone reading interview for! Office PAs love the opportunity to work on a feature of some repute, that. Up your resume for success demonstrates that you are able to drive a box truck our... Needs to be hired for a staff set PA job ( everyday ) hayden production assistant cover letter reddit Harper! 'S a great production assistant if so does adding a little humor help show personality keywords in the industry events. Worked with [ your diary Service ] interest in the right attitude, and it much... 'S my advice, from someone who has been exactly where you show up Jupiter.... And, of course, a well-written cover letter for the production assistant cover letter is a critical tool. Anything, production assistant cover letter reddit be straightforward and list them all as one-line items on... Does n't get you the job done unless they decide to hire you as staff ( you the... Then you 're not going to apply to low budget production, but nobody really cares that! Nobody cares about that - it 's a great chance to explain why you 're curious, 've. So whatever you can do, network with people in the office very gig.