If you are new to video editing and want to gain practical experience before starting your job search, securing an internship is an excellent way to stand out from the crowd. It can be challenging for those who are not enrolled in a traditional degree to learn about internship opportunities, but there are some helpful tips that can make the process easier.
With the demand for Video Editors rising each year, there is no better time than now to get an internship and gain additional experience in this lucrative field. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates the video editing job market will grow by 29% through 2030, which is significantly faster than the national average for all occupations. This article will cover some helpful tips for landing a video editing internship in 2022 to boost your resume.
Focus on a Strong Portfolio
It’s crucial that Video Editors build a solid portfolio to submit with their internship application. A portfolio is often one of the first things a potential employer will review, which is why it’s so important to have a website that makes a lasting impression. Adobe Portfolio is a popular portfolio hosting platform for Video Editors. This platform provides an excellent way to showcase your work style and unique skill set. However, you should still research the top portfolio hosting platforms to ensure you find an option that aligns with both your personal and professional goals.
Update Your Resume
While a Video Editor’s portfolio is often one of the most emphasized elements when applying for an internship, be sure not to overlook the importance of a well-polished resume. This gives a potential employer a chance to learn even more about your experience, training, and goals as a Video Editor. Including a professional summary that highlights your skills and achievements is an excellent way to grab the reader’s attention and stand out from other applicants.
Take Time to Build Interview Skills
Another important step Video Editors can take to prepare for an internship is taking the time to build interview skills. According to Indeed, it’s recommended to research the company and the job description before attending an interview. This will help you to gain an understanding of the company’s culture and achievements. Some people also find it helpful to write down common interview questions and practice their responses. This can help you streamline your answers based on your skills and the internship objectives.
Network and Attend Events
If you are struggling to find internship opportunities, try networking with other professionals in the field. One free tool Video Editors can use to network with others and gain valuable feedback on their work is Behance, a social media platform owned by Adobe. The platform allows users to search for different types of projects and has the ability to publish work directly from Creative Cloud programs.
Attending local events or conventions is another great way to meet other creative professionals and learn about internship openings. VidCon is a popular convention for those who want to create content for platforms like YouTube and Snapchat. NAB is another excellent choice for those looking to work in filmmaking or television.
Join an Organization
It’s essential to have a network of like-minded people with whom you can collaborate ideas and gain valuable feedback on your work. Joining a professional organization is another excellent way to network with other creatives in the industry and learn of any potential internship opportunities. Some of the top reputable organizations' Video Editors can join include:
- National Association of Broadcasters
- Motion Picture Editors Guild
- Motion Picture Sound Editors
- The National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences
Start Freelancing
If you want to gain experience and collect content for your portfolio, consider video editing as a freelancer. Nearly 57 million Americans work as freelancers, and that number is only expected to grow in the coming years. It’s clear there is no better time than now to start working independently to gain extra experience. Some video freelancers use popular websites like Upwork to secure work, while others utilize more traditional platforms like Indeed.
Immerse Yourself in the Industry
Another great way to stay up-to-date on trends and learn of any new internship opportunities is to fully immerse yourself in the video editing industry. This can include things like listening to podcasts, reading articles, and connecting with other creatives on social media. You should also take time to work on your own projects outside of any professional obligations. This can help with creativity and having portfolio content that showcases your specific style. Sharing your work on social media sites or community platforms provides a chance for you to gain valuable feedback as well.
Contact Your School or Local Career Center
Finding an internship can be challenging, but there are resources available to help. You should start by contacting your school if you took video editing courses. They may have information on finding internship opportunities or building a career network. You can also check with your local career center to see if there are any relevant openings in your area.
Sharpen Your Skills
All Video Editors should strive to stay current in the field and remain up-to-date with trends, software processes, and relevant news. It’s important for these creative professionals to stay consistent with their work to keep their skills sharp and competitive in the job market. While attending conventions and reading blogs are great for news updates, video editing classes provide immersive training in the field.
If you are making a career change to video editing and want to find a well-rounded training curriculum, consider live online video editing courses from a provider like Noble Desktop. These classes have all the benefits of traditional courses with the versatility and flexibility to learn from home. They teach all of the required software like Adobe Premiere Pro, After Effects, and Audition, while also providing an opportunity to build a demo reel. If you are ready to get started with a new career in video editing, try searching for video editing classes in your area.