2 years, 8 months ago
I'm starting to feel that career dissatisfaction itch. I'm good at a few things, what are some opportunities that I could pursue...
My present position is starting to cause me to wake up and dread the day. I like most of what I do at the studio, but the workload, lack of replacement hires, and random & impossible deadlines make it difficult to focus on any one task and see it through to completion.
Example of impossible deadline: Today is Wednesday. I've already been told that I need to make two promos for two different events, with no existing footage, graphics, or talent...and this needs to be ready by the end of the day Thursday. I'd get footage today, but I have a shoot we're already setting up for which will use the majority of the equipment that I would use to get the footage I need. I can do a "quick and dirty" promo, consisting of a variety of images and stock music, and that's only if the machine I can do that on is free tomorrow.
I've always been good at written communication of known facts, and have trained myself to keep personal opinions out of "official" communiques. However, when asked to do so, I've also reviewed equipment for "determining if it will suit our needs", and can generate reports based on templates. If none exist, I can design and implement them.
I've designed, written, and implemented training manuals for my employers when needed, both for regular level employees, as well as supervisory level. I don't have problems clearly articulating what I mean in written communications, as those who have read some of my answers have observed in the past.
I'm also a good problem solver, especially with the "how can we get this to work" types of problems and I can take command in an emergency situation and lead. It's what I've been trained to do.
I'm a "evil genius" when it comes to computers, electronics, gadgets, and television production equipment. I can find ways of getting them to do what they're not supposed to be doing, and also how to protect against people like me once I find and document the flaws I find. I'm that guy that finds your flaws, learns the exploits, and then is nice enough to tell you how to fix them.
My main stumbling blocks are a lack of funds and a lack of a degree. I have lots of real-world application knowledge, but no degree because I was forced into the workplace immediately upon graduation from high school.
What are some other career paths I could take based on the information above that I've provided? I want something that is fulfilling to me. It's not my fault I'm a good investigator and can see flaws others lack, but I need an appropriate outlet for those skills.
I like working in TV, but with the lack of funds, antiquated equipment, and job future uncertainty (the CEO threatened to fire me via text message to my boss because someone else on graphics was slow on the draw one night and didn't get graphics ready in time while we were live...I wake up with dread and fear that this is the day I get fired for something that wasn't my fault. That's no way to live / work.
Example of impossible deadline: Today is Wednesday. I've already been told that I need to make two promos for two different events, with no existing footage, graphics, or talent...and this needs to be ready by the end of the day Thursday. I'd get footage today, but I have a shoot we're already setting up for which will use the majority of the equipment that I would use to get the footage I need. I can do a "quick and dirty" promo, consisting of a variety of images and stock music, and that's only if the machine I can do that on is free tomorrow.
I've always been good at written communication of known facts, and have trained myself to keep personal opinions out of "official" communiques. However, when asked to do so, I've also reviewed equipment for "determining if it will suit our needs", and can generate reports based on templates. If none exist, I can design and implement them.
I've designed, written, and implemented training manuals for my employers when needed, both for regular level employees, as well as supervisory level. I don't have problems clearly articulating what I mean in written communications, as those who have read some of my answers have observed in the past.
I'm also a good problem solver, especially with the "how can we get this to work" types of problems and I can take command in an emergency situation and lead. It's what I've been trained to do.
I'm a "evil genius" when it comes to computers, electronics, gadgets, and television production equipment. I can find ways of getting them to do what they're not supposed to be doing, and also how to protect against people like me once I find and document the flaws I find. I'm that guy that finds your flaws, learns the exploits, and then is nice enough to tell you how to fix them.
My main stumbling blocks are a lack of funds and a lack of a degree. I have lots of real-world application knowledge, but no degree because I was forced into the workplace immediately upon graduation from high school.
What are some other career paths I could take based on the information above that I've provided? I want something that is fulfilling to me. It's not my fault I'm a good investigator and can see flaws others lack, but I need an appropriate outlet for those skills.
I like working in TV, but with the lack of funds, antiquated equipment, and job future uncertainty (the CEO threatened to fire me via text message to my boss because someone else on graphics was slow on the draw one night and didn't get graphics ready in time while we were live...I wake up with dread and fear that this is the day I get fired for something that wasn't my fault. That's no way to live / work.
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M$4 Answers
I can see that video-making, equipment are your strengths.
My opinion is before you quit your job, try to partially freelance to see whether it’s feasible first. This way may be less risky.
Besides that, finding a better job in the field is another option.
Some opportunities below for peoples with good video skills; but be aware on your rights (copyright, agreement etc..) of the projects, contests etc..
Selection is based on quality perceived by “panel”, not on academic qualifications.
1. Crowdsourcing websites:
Some of the crowdsourcing, community websites for independent and freelance videographers to build their portfolios, connect with companies and brands for commercial work are:
http://www.poptent.net/
They have assignments where peoples submit their entries and winners get cash awards.
You can check on their blog to see some of their activities.
http://www.vimeo.com/forums
There are “Vimeo Projects”, “Festivals and Contests” in the forum. Many resources on knowledge, collaboration etc. too.
Search using Google : "video crowdsourcing" for new upcoming websites.
2. Video contest/competition:
Organizations sometimes have video contest/competition for promo, marketing purposes.
Some awards are offering big cash awards.
You can do a search using Google for words like video contest, video competition etc.
(I came across one, will send you a personal message.)
3. online video ads for small & medium companies..for e.g.
Spotmixer.
You can partner with them or have something like that.
Hope this helps.
Wish you a fulfilling career in video making.
My opinion is before you quit your job, try to partially freelance to see whether it’s feasible first. This way may be less risky.
Besides that, finding a better job in the field is another option.
Some opportunities below for peoples with good video skills; but be aware on your rights (copyright, agreement etc..) of the projects, contests etc..
Selection is based on quality perceived by “panel”, not on academic qualifications.
1. Crowdsourcing websites:
Some of the crowdsourcing, community websites for independent and freelance videographers to build their portfolios, connect with companies and brands for commercial work are:
http://www.poptent.net/
They have assignments where peoples submit their entries and winners get cash awards.
You can check on their blog to see some of their activities.
http://www.vimeo.com/forums
There are “Vimeo Projects”, “Festivals and Contests” in the forum. Many resources on knowledge, collaboration etc. too.
Search using Google : "video crowdsourcing" for new upcoming websites.
2. Video contest/competition:
Organizations sometimes have video contest/competition for promo, marketing purposes.
Some awards are offering big cash awards.
You can do a search using Google for words like video contest, video competition etc.
(I came across one, will send you a personal message.)
3. online video ads for small & medium companies..for e.g.
Spotmixer.
You can partner with them or have something like that.
Hope this helps.
Wish you a fulfilling career in video making.
You can leave an optional "tip" with Mahalo's virtual currency, Mahalo Dollars. If you are asking a difficult question that might require some research, or if you'd like a wide variety of feedback, a higher tip often leads to more answers to your question.
M$Report Abuse
Firstly, I definitely recommend that you do some things like update your resume, search for other jobs, and research some community college classes or tech schools. Even if none of those things directly pans out, in the short term, I think it does a lot of alleviate the sense of despair and being trapped. Just some small steps to helping you feel in better control can improve your mood greatly.
Secondly, are you in a position to have a sit-down with your boss about needing more realistic goals and time lines? Maybe telling him that you don't want the quality of your work to suffer, so you need to do some creative problem solving with him ASAP?
It sounds like you have all the skills needed to be a technical writer, which is something many companies need, and something that is usually more based on experience than a degree. I would definitely recommend looking into that. Possibly copy editing as well. You also sound like you could easily transition into technical support, which doesn't necessarily mean a call center. Many companies want an on-hand "fix all" guy which is sounds like you are. You also sound like a great guy for information security, which is a huge need, and also something that requires more know-how than degrees.
Have you ever considered starting your own business, as a side project? I think with very little start-up, you could design yourself a website, and start taking on projects for individuals and businesses. Look for contract-based technical writing or IT stuff, and market yourself not as an individual, but as a small business owner. I think you could really build up enough clientele to quit your job.
Energy and spirit go a long way, and you seem to have those. Once you conquer this feeling that you are "trapped," I think you will really take off.
Good luck!
Secondly, are you in a position to have a sit-down with your boss about needing more realistic goals and time lines? Maybe telling him that you don't want the quality of your work to suffer, so you need to do some creative problem solving with him ASAP?
It sounds like you have all the skills needed to be a technical writer, which is something many companies need, and something that is usually more based on experience than a degree. I would definitely recommend looking into that. Possibly copy editing as well. You also sound like you could easily transition into technical support, which doesn't necessarily mean a call center. Many companies want an on-hand "fix all" guy which is sounds like you are. You also sound like a great guy for information security, which is a huge need, and also something that requires more know-how than degrees.
Have you ever considered starting your own business, as a side project? I think with very little start-up, you could design yourself a website, and start taking on projects for individuals and businesses. Look for contract-based technical writing or IT stuff, and market yourself not as an individual, but as a small business owner. I think you could really build up enough clientele to quit your job.
Energy and spirit go a long way, and you seem to have those. Once you conquer this feeling that you are "trapped," I think you will really take off.
Good luck!
You can leave an optional "tip" with Mahalo's virtual currency, Mahalo Dollars. If you are asking a difficult question that might require some research, or if you'd like a wide variety of feedback, a higher tip often leads to more answers to your question.
M$
Sounds like you are ready to freelance your work or become an independent consultant. You have the talent and if you work for yourself a degree is not an issue.
In this economic situation a client is going to be more concerned with talent than they are a degree.
Also consider writing ebooks on the various subjects you know about. There are several publishers of ebooks that will take you through how to put them together without charge in exchange for a larger percentage cut.
Booklocker.comm
You write well and I loved reading your talents list. You are a self starter and as one of the above you are already better than anyone you could work for.
Good luck, I hope this helps.
In this economic situation a client is going to be more concerned with talent than they are a degree.
Also consider writing ebooks on the various subjects you know about. There are several publishers of ebooks that will take you through how to put them together without charge in exchange for a larger percentage cut.
Booklocker.comm
You write well and I loved reading your talents list. You are a self starter and as one of the above you are already better than anyone you could work for.
Good luck, I hope this helps.
You can leave an optional "tip" with Mahalo's virtual currency, Mahalo Dollars. If you are asking a difficult question that might require some research, or if you'd like a wide variety of feedback, a higher tip often leads to more answers to your question.
M$
Well...I think you should go for a career of freelance writer. If you can write good summary, good written description of things than you have perfect ingredients for a writer. Once you will start writing professionally your skills will automatically get enhanced.
Important note: Look for freelance writing jobs and try few opportunities, but DO NOT quit your current job unless and until you become a consistent earner through your writing. Initially you need to gain confidence and trust of the people who will give you the freelance writing work. Once you or your work is appreciated, than there will be no looking back. The work and the earning will start flowing for you, than you can decide about your current job.
These are the sites which might help you in getting the freelance work:
Get a freelancer
Lime Exchange
Guru
Odesk
Important note: Look for freelance writing jobs and try few opportunities, but DO NOT quit your current job unless and until you become a consistent earner through your writing. Initially you need to gain confidence and trust of the people who will give you the freelance writing work. Once you or your work is appreciated, than there will be no looking back. The work and the earning will start flowing for you, than you can decide about your current job.
These are the sites which might help you in getting the freelance work:
Get a freelancer
Lime Exchange
Guru
Odesk
You can leave an optional "tip" with Mahalo's virtual currency, Mahalo Dollars. If you are asking a difficult question that might require some research, or if you'd like a wide variety of feedback, a higher tip often leads to more answers to your question.
M$
