When theaters and movie sets shut down during COVID, the entertainment industry suffered. Global box office revenue fell 72%, or $12 billion, and Hollywood lost more than 100,000 jobs by the end of 2020. Despite the grim news, there were opportunities for entertainment industry professionals to leverage their knowledge and skills to work from home as freelancers. Teeco71.com weighs in.

Different Roles Available

While the entertainment industry is collaborative, many professionals can leverage their skills to work from home in:

• Video production. This role goes beyond the entertainment industry. Sure, you can find agency work to help clients with films, but these skills also work in the education industry. Remote learning and distance education is a thriving industry that’s on the path to becoming a $350 billion industry.
• Writing/Editing. Writing and editing copy and scripts are just two services that entertainment professionals can do at home and earn plenty of income to live comfortably.
• Sound and sound design. The ability to create excellent Foley effects that add atmosphere and draw viewers into production is a skill many companies will pay for.
• Animation. Animation is a complex art that can be easily done at home with the right software and equipment in place.

While there are plenty of opportunities on popular recruiting sites, as a freelancer, you still need to act like a business owner—because you are. 

Be Mindful of Your Finances

There’s a lot of debate surrounding how much you should charge for your services and the idea of reducing your rates to attract clients. When looking at your finances, consider what your time is really worth. Lowering the price of your services means having to do more work to break even. Instead, consider adding value while charging more. Not only will it give you a nice psychological boost, but it will make your clients appreciate what you offer.

Study Your Competitors

Show clients your unique selling proposition (USP)—what you have to offer that others don’t. The best way is to first take a look at what others in the industry are offering to help you find the right complementary product or service that clients value.

Networking for Potential Clients

If you’ve worked in the entertainment industry before becoming a freelancer, it’s possible you can find projects through current connections. Approximately 80% of professionals find networking vital to their success. By continuously networking and staying social, you increase your professional circle of influence and ability to get the attention of potential customers.

Showcasing Your Skills

Another part of marketing and selling your brand is showcasing your skills. That means maintaining a fresh, updated showreel and portfolio on your website or a third-party site with detailed information on each project. Every time you add something new, share it with your social media audience. You never know when it might lead to a potential project.

Finding Ways to Work From Home

Working from home as an entertainment industry professional requires strategic execution and having a level of confidence that will carry you through challenges. Take stock of your experience, skills, and connections to see how you can create the right opportunity for you.

Image via Pexels

Written by: Emma Grace Brown of emmagracebrown.com.