Finding and becoming a mentor is an issue that every industry must deal with especially in live events industry. This industry is hard, and we all know it.
Mentors are looking for people interested in learning a skill, have a positive attitude and work hard.
When I started (which was just after electricity was discovered), I had a degree in technical theater and thought I needed to be at the top. Then I started sending out resumes and trying to book work. It quickly became obvious that I needed to start at the beginning and take what was offered.
I want everyone to know that does not last very long if you are driven and work well with people.
From the first time I worked on an event, I noticed something very interesting. If you come to the job with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn, there are people who want you to succeed and are willing to teach you those skills.
Below are 4 things that I want everyone to know so they can succeed in their live events career.
4 Tips for Growing Your Live Events Career
1. Listen and learn
Listen to the department lead. Take initiative and when someone says can you help me set up a console or wire the RF rack or ring out the mics do it.
2. Jump at every opportunity
If you have an LD or A1 or V1 that offers you an opportunity, take it, and ask questions. Usually, if they ask you to help it is because they see talent.
3. Be open minded
Be curious, mentoring is not a lost art, you just have to look, and you will see a lot of people interested in mentoring you.
4. Pass on your knowledge
As you learn and grow and move into those lead positions, be willing to share that knowledge with others.
Related: 14 Tips on How to Break Into Live Events from AV Pros
Why I think everyone needs a mentor
I started in live events with the knowledge, and not necessarily the skill to apply it. I had a mentor that was willing to help me hone that talent and teach me new things whenever they could. I even bartered helping them do a show if they would train me on a lighting console.
That was invaluable to getting me to the next level. Then when they could not do a show, they would recommend me, and it started a great career.
Mentorship is definitely not a lost art, but as someone new to the business I would say, seek out the opportunities to learn new skills.
Looking for more advice? Check out this podcast episode:
How To Advance Your Events Career Through Education & Training feat. Omar Colom
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