When I was first thinking about going freelance there were times when I wondered whether or not I’d be disciplined enough to wake up every morning and be at my desk by 9am. I also worried there might not be enough for me to do, even if I managed it.
But this week I have managed to banish both of those fears.
OK, as I expected, I don’t jump straight out of bed with a spring in my step (I’ve always resembled a bear with a sore head in the mornings and that hasn’t changed) and I don’t think I’ve been at my desk by 9 o’clock once, but what I’ve realised is that doesn’t matter. The beauty of being freelance is there are no set rules, so as long as I do everything I need to, I can get up at whatever time I like!
And there’s plenty to do once I am awake.
I received an email this week telling me that my interview for Radio 5 Live was successful, so I’ll be doing my shift there soon. I’ve also been booked to present some weekend bulletins at ITV Wales in March. And I’ve even be asked to audition for a part in a short film! It’s not the sort of work I’m used to, but I’m looking forward to trying something new.
More importantly though I’ve found the time to meet up with friends and former colleagues, which often seemed impossible when I was working full time. But taking time out for a coffee and a chat has helped my work too. I’m more alert when I get back to my computer, and they’ve even given me some great ideas for stories!
So while my life may seem more chaotic than ever on the outside, inside I’m relaxed and calm. It’s a feeling I’m getting used to… I just hope it can last!
Hi,
Really enjoyed seeing your recent blog. I discovered it on facebook post on unitlist.
Im a freelance camera operator/dop and camera assistant. I know it is quiet different from what you do but anyway i just wanted to ask you something.
I have been cam op/dop and assistant for sometime, but never got a job in tv and I dont even know where to send my CV or who should I call to make myself available for an interview cause normally their website is too broad and the emails most of them are all [email protected] or something like this. Im afraid if i send to something like this nobody would really see it. With phones the same.
If you know a website for tv jobs or contacts that you could share I would be really appreciated.
Keep up with the blog 🙂
Best,
Pedro
Hi Pedro
I’m so pleased you liked my blog.
The best advice I can give you is to contact the regional ITV and BBC newsrooms for the area you live in, I’m not sure how you’d find the telephone numbers but a google search should help. I’ve also find most indepent production companies are very helpful, I know ONTV specialise in recruitment of technical freelancers (www.ontv.ltd.uk)
I hope that helps, and good luck with everything!
Best wishes
Mariclare
Hi Mariclare,
Thanks for the advice 🙂 I already used the ONTV contact form. They said they will be in contact shortly. hopefully they will like my showreel and I can work with them in the future! Tomorrow I will try itv and bbc 🙂
thanks for the advice.
Pedro
pedroribeiro.co.uk