For anyone who can’t be bothered to read the whole book (how dare!) Levy summarises the teachings at the end of it. Here’s a complete list that I’m absolutely planning on printing out and sticking on the wall, so I can always remind myself to keep growing. It’s not going to be easy, but it’s important to keep on pushing and improving.
Having read the book, although it took time as I decided to take notes for future reference, I know it was full of valuable advice.
Knowing my personality type, I would definitely prefer permanent/full-time employment over freelance gigs here and there – I feel constantly needing to find a new job would give me anxiety. I’m definitely what’s described as a ‘house-cat’.
Even if the job is creative, it is important to have a different creative outlet outside of it – this way your ego doesn’t become attached to the work, and you’re better at taking feedback as it wouldn’t be as personal.
When Palmer talked about bad leadership, I was surprised at how easily I could think of examples from my day jobs of people who were reluctant, disruptive, absent or tone-deaf and that truly affected my work. It is absolutely my goal to not become one of these people as I would hate to negatively impact my team and their work – the animation industry so heavily depends on teamwork.
Another thing I picked up on was how important it is to make connections in the industry. I will definitely be looking to join a group in London and try to attend or volunteer at London Festivals. I’m not great at cold emailing or reaching out, but this is what’s called growth, I guess.
I suppose I gotta stick my neck out to get a foot in the door.
I started reading “Your Career in Animation” by Levy to gain more insight into the animation world. I especially focused on the roles I’m personally interested in, and Levy mentioned a lot of other resources which I’m hoping to look further into.
Turns out I also heavily misunderstood what a Producer does, and I would actually be really interested in looking into it the role, as I love organisation, and charts, and trackers.
Books I would like to read next: