New Year Career Check in
Happy New Year! Time for a Career Check-In
The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
The Good: The industry’s wheels are still spinning! Surprisingly, we’ve seen more hires this December than expected, even during the typically quiet final weeks of the year.
The Bad and the Ugly: The news remains just that—news. But for those who don’t adapt to the ever-changing industry, challenges could arise. - Keep an eye out for our State of the Union next week.
Let’s Talk 2025 Career Goals
Forget resolutions—they’re often fleeting. Instead, let’s focus on actionable strategies to level up your career this year.
1. Learn from Others
Invest in “studying” other people's journey. Read biographies, listen to podcasts, and dive into others’ successes and failures. It’s an invaluable way to fast-track your growth and avoid unnecessary missteps. Reach out and ask people about their careers, how they got started why they succeeded etc (See Networking below)
2. Reframe Failure
After 25 years of talking to people about their careers, we’ve learned that fear of failure is a common hurdle. Don’t aim to avoid failure—instead, embrace it. Failing might sting, but it’s far better than never trying. It’s how you learn you can survive and thrive. Fear of failure is a terrible navigation tool.
3. Network Like a Pro
Your network is your most powerful career tool. It’s not just about job leads; it’s about connections like, “Hey, I applied to XXXX—can you introduce me to your contact there?” Networking is simply professional socializing. If it doesn’t come naturally, practice—it’s a skill you can develop. In our industry, it’s essential.
4. Find or Be a Mentor
- Need a boost? A mentor can help you avoid pitfalls and accelerate your career.
- Feeling established? Mentoring someone else will reinvigorate your passion and create a win-win dynamic. Even if you’re just a few years in, you have wisdom to share.
5. Reassess Your Path
If things haven’t been going well, ask yourself: Does this path still make sense? Don’t let a decision made years ago hold you hostage.
6. Test the Waters
Feeling lukewarm about your job? Start interviewing. It might remind you of how good you have it—or give you the push to make a change.
7. Volunteer
Volunteering adds value to your life and career. It’s an excellent networking opportunity, a way to gain new skills, and a reminder of the impact you can make.
Some ideas:
- Entertainment Industry: WGA, DGA, SAG-AFTRA, Entertainment Community Fund, MPTF, or Manifest Works.
- Local Opportunities: Check out Reading to Kids (cofounded by Brad Hall, EntertainmentCareers.Net’s founder) for a fun micro volunteering experience on a Saturday in LA. Also a great way to meet people in the industry.
- Helping the formerly Incarcerated with professional development: Defy Ventures combines entrepreneurship and professional development—an incredible opportunity to use your skills for good and change the direction of someone's life.
8. Embrace Change
Waiting for things to happen won’t cut it. Make a change—in direction, tactic, or attitude. Do something.
Success rarely comes by chance—it’s earned through consistent effort. Learn something new, teach someone else, and step outside your comfort zone. Growth in one area often fuels growth in others.
9. Find Balance
A career alone can’t sustain you. Explore other sources of joy and meaning—friends, family, hobbies, or helping others. When you focus outward, success often finds its way back to you.
10. Start Small, Think Big
Progress doesn’t require leaps—just small, consistent steps. Get 1% better each day, and watch those gains compound.
Final Thoughts
Finding meaning in your work takes effort, but it’s worth it. You build a career over time, and we’re here to help however we can.
Here’s to a productive and fulfilling 2025. Go get ‘em!
P.S. Need inspiration? Check out Atomic Habits—an amazing book to help you start strong and stick to your intentions for the new year.