Any mums on here who work or used to work in TV?

[Neatnick]

Just wondering if any mums on here work in TV production (or used to do so?)

How did you keep your career going with the long hours and the commitment needed for working in telly?

I had a good job in production but gave it up a couple of years ago up to be at home more which I've been (mostly) happy about.

My DD has started school now and I would like to get back into it all. But feeling very out of it, especially with contacts.

I have freelanced a bit over the last couple of years but only in desk-based jobs, not out making stuff.

Is a career in production remotely workable when you have kids?

Just wondering how other mums have managed it?

What do you do in production? I used to work for a TV broadcaster, not in production, but recall reading an article about 18 mos ago in Broadcast, where two mums job shared in production. I think they both did 3 days a week and their company thought it worked brilliantly as they got two heads for the price of one (and a bit).

Unfortunately you now need to subscribe to Broadcast to get access to their website, otherwise I'd paste a link to the article.

Thanks Speedy, I used to direct. There are jobshares out there (not many) but just not sure they work in a director role, if you know what I mean?

Yes, Broadcast used to be free to browse online, didn't it.

Ps. Did you leave the industry then, Speedy?

I also used to work for a broadcaster and am now freelancing for Independent Producers on development.

Is that something you could do?

Failing that, have you thought about promo directing? I know it's a slightly different art but the hours are more reliable (well friends seem to manage it)

Hmm...yes, I can imagine directing would be very tricky as a jobshare. Probably impossible, actually. I think the women who were interviewed were APs or something - i.e. a more admin-related role, so it was easier to organise.

Have you contacted Skillset? I used them to help me work out how to relaunch my career post-baby and they were actually really helpful - they can set up mentoring sessions with industry pros (I had one with a lovely guy who directs Holby City/ Eastenders - not relevant to what I wanted as they didn't have people in my chosen area, but it's possible that he or other directors will still be doing the mentoring programme).

They also funded me on a great AP course at the Beeb - I paid a minimal amount and they paid the rest. Didn't go into AP-ing in the end, but it was all useful training!

I moved across to a different area of broadcasting and am just finding my feet. Really enjoy what I'm doing now and, provided I can keep things going (am preg with no 2) it should work beautifully as a p/t career until the kids are at school.

Oh yes - promo directing. I can put you in touch with people in London if you want to pursue that angle.

Thanks Fruitstick, development is an option, not something I've done a lot of tbh but certainly a possibility. Promo directing sounds interesting. Do you mind if I ask how your friends got into it? I remember a couple of agencies advertising for promo directors actually. So they don't work such crazy hours in that field?

Speedy, that's great to hear that about Skillset, didn't realise they helped in that way. I've tried them before because I was interested in doing some Avid/Final Cut training but they were quite vague, said had no money at that point in time. Maybe worth another try?

Cross-post. Really Speedy? That would be great, thanks so much. Glad you are enjoying your sideways move by the way.

Yes do try Skillset. I used them in 2007.

Promo directing - all my contacts are with TV broadcasters (my old company laid loads of people off so my old colleagues are spread around the industry now - v useful ), and it's really interesting, creative work. Very challenging - both budget-wise and in terms of creating stuff that's on brand, eye-catching, etc etc. I have a huge respect for anyone who can direct a good promo.

I don't know what it's like getting work as a freelancer but you can certainly get a good idea from talking to others.

Cross-post!

Just CAT me and I'll be happy to help. So many people were incredibly kind to me when I was trying to get back on my feet; it's the least I can do.

A friend of mine did move across from documentary production and another flits between to the 2. Both are freelance but were originally staff. I'm afraid I don't know anyone who moved into it later in their career.

A freelance promo producer earns about £250 a day upwards I think.

Speedy, what did you move into (at the risk of outing yourself )

Umm...not going to out myself, I'm afraid! Sorry!

Speedy, that's so nice of you. I was a bit adrift today thinking about how to get started with it all again so thanks so much.

I'm not set up for CAT at the mo but will sort it tomorrow and contact you.

Okey-doke. Actually, have just realised that I should probably have an idea of what you've done...could you maybe send me a few bullet points saying what progs you've directed just so I know (a little bit) what I'm talking about when I send emails?

Speedy, I have cat'd you. Don't know if it will get delivered til Monday though.

Thanks again

Have replied!