I just finished my demo reel and plan on applying for some jobs with some production companies in Los Angeles. I'm wondering since I don't live in California if they would even consider me for the job, because I'm not sure if most production companies hire people from out of state or only people in the area. Just wanted to check to see if maybe I should move to Los Angeles first and then apply for jobs and maybe that might help my chances of getting an interview and eventually a job.
Getting a job at a production company
- Thread starter cb1
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Ryan Patrick O'Hara
Veteran
I was in the exact same situation before I moved out here. I sent out applications before hand, but was willing to fly out as soon as a bite bit. You know?
I did the best I could from Ohio and then I had an opportunity with what I considered my #1 job choice for just getting out of filmschool.
I flew out to do the interview and missed the job by the scruff of my chin. I decided to stay and freelance, and by chance/fate/and my irish luck, got a job at the company I flew out for to begin with.
I am not saying everyone will have this kind of luck, but I am saying that applying from out of state is not a bad thing to do, but you must be willing to fly out on a dime and have somewhere to stay.
Also, when filling out your resume and cover letters, dont pretend you are in LA, but mention as little as possible that you are out of the state.
When I got the call for my interview, I was currently working for Good Morning America as a freelancer... so instead of saying "Oh I can't interview tomorrow because I live in Ohio..." I simply said "I can't come in immediately because I am currently freelancing in Ohio...." See the difference? One shows that I am a working professional who can relocate... not someone fishing from across the country.
I hope my personal insight is worth something. Look at a website called LA411 and get the addresses of all the companies you can. Send everyone a personalized cover letter and resume. Tell them why you want to work for them specifically and why you like the company.
I dunno. My 0.02$
I did the best I could from Ohio and then I had an opportunity with what I considered my #1 job choice for just getting out of filmschool.
I flew out to do the interview and missed the job by the scruff of my chin. I decided to stay and freelance, and by chance/fate/and my irish luck, got a job at the company I flew out for to begin with.
I am not saying everyone will have this kind of luck, but I am saying that applying from out of state is not a bad thing to do, but you must be willing to fly out on a dime and have somewhere to stay.
Also, when filling out your resume and cover letters, dont pretend you are in LA, but mention as little as possible that you are out of the state.
When I got the call for my interview, I was currently working for Good Morning America as a freelancer... so instead of saying "Oh I can't interview tomorrow because I live in Ohio..." I simply said "I can't come in immediately because I am currently freelancing in Ohio...." See the difference? One shows that I am a working professional who can relocate... not someone fishing from across the country.
I hope my personal insight is worth something. Look at a website called LA411 and get the addresses of all the companies you can. Send everyone a personalized cover letter and resume. Tell them why you want to work for them specifically and why you like the company.
I dunno. My 0.02$
Last edited:
Doc Bernard
Indie Arms Member
I get a lot of calls and emails from potential applicants. And many of them are from out of state. First off, Ryan gave you some pretty good advice. I wouldn't even consider someone living currently out of state. But that is because if I had to let that person go, and I knew they moved out here just for the job, I would feel bad.
Also, to me, it seems like they are wanting me to be their "stepping stone" into the industry. "Once I get this job and get a place, I can start looking for the next thing". I want someone already here.
That is how I look at it, when I get those applicants. Not that they WILL do that, but that is how I perceive it.
Also, to me, it seems like they are wanting me to be their "stepping stone" into the industry. "Once I get this job and get a place, I can start looking for the next thing". I want someone already here.
That is how I look at it, when I get those applicants. Not that they WILL do that, but that is how I perceive it.