How to Write a TV Resume
There are a large number of careers within the field of television communications. Whether you are applying for a position as a production assistant, a script writer, on-air talent or any other TV-related job, you will need to create a resume specific to the position you are applying to fill. This document should be spell-checked and fact-checked to be free of any errors that might damage your credibility as a potential employee.
Instructions
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Include your full name and contact information at the top of your resume. If you have graphic design ability, this can be arranged in a personal letterhead. Otherwise, you can use resume templates when arranging this information.
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Write a one-sentence "objective" statement that clearly states both the position you are applying for and why you are the right person for the job. Sometimes this section is also referred to as "profile" or "summary," which are sometimes a little longer than one sentence. For example, "Communications graduate student seeks a position as a production assistant with Channel 9 news."
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Detail your relevant television work experience. In a traditional resume, this list should begin with your current or most recent work and go back from there. You would list the name of the company, your title, the time period in which you worked there and a bulleted list of your most important job duties. However, a functional resume is ideal for television work. On a functional resume, you would lead with the qualifications you have that are most relevant to the job you are applying for and word backward.
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List your academic background, starting with your current or most recent degree received. For example, if you earned a degree in film studies, communications, broadcast journalism or set design, include this information. List the name of the institution, the program you were enrolled in and the degree or certificate received.
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Include a section for your special skills, relevant organizations and awards that make you especially qualified for your preferred career in television. Any information here that is geared specifically toward the position is ideal for this section. For example, if you are bilingual, can type 90 words a minute or are a member of a screenwriting association, this information should be included on your resume.
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Create a section that lists your references and attach this to your one page resume. A large part of landing a job in the TV business is who you know. Your references should offer your potential employer the opportunity to talk to people who can vouch for your talents. Include the name, relationship and contact information of three to five people who can qualify your television experience and education.
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References
- Photo Credit TV image by Ilija Mitrevski from Fotolia.com