It is no secret that television is changing, evolving even, into something completely new, but for those who want to make the move, what exactly should they know? Here are some of the skills you need for a job in TV writing:
An Evolving Genre
Television writing is as much a creative art as it is a science and it is constantly growing and changing, adapting to new platforms like Netflix so even experienced professionals can stay on top of the game.
What used to be considered “script doctors” – fixing other people’s errors – is now known as “script consulting.” If you are somebody who likes to sit down with a blank slate and make something fantastic happen, then this is the job for you. To keep up with the evolving demands of this ever-changing industry, undertake continuous education so that you can learn and grow with the times.
A Sense of Humor
It is no secret that people who work in television usually have a sense of humor. If you can find the funny in even the most bleak of situations, then this is an important skill to have. Humor is incredibly important in order to create an atmosphere of trust and safety in which to improvise and create stories.
An Adaptable Mind
This is vital. If you are changing jobs frequently, or if you find yourself with a role that doesn’t suit you and doesn’t feel right to you, then you need to be able to adapt. The best performers in this industry are those who can change their approach and game plan on a whim, finding a way to make things work even though the circumstances were initially different.
Broad Understanding
This is crucial, especially if you are going to be writing for different platforms and for different audiences. Unless you are an expert in every field – including law, marketing, and communications – you will struggle to make the move from creative writing to commercial television. Therefore, it is important to know how to approach any situation, knowing that you will not have all the answers and will have to find a way to make it work. The more you know, the better you will be able to adapt and overcome challenges, building on experience rather than just looking at what you are told.
Above All, Be Creative
This is the most important thing. You need to be able to bring your A-game all the time, every time you sit down to write. Whether you are writing for the small screen or for the big one, you need to be able to see the creative spark that makes your story unique, making it stand out from the crowd. If you can’t find that unique spark within yourself, then it may not be the right fit for you. Always be looking for ways to be more creative, to challenge yourself and find new ways to approach old problems. Only then will you be able to bring that extra something to the table.