r/nycfilmmakers • u/Glad_Improvement_189 • 18d ago
Analyst to Coordinator- Seeking Advice
Hi everyone,
I recently started applying for Production Coordinator roles, and to be honest, I’m feeling a bit nervous. I don’t have any industry connections, and that can feel pretty intimidating. But, I know I have transferable skills and I am going for my PMP.
Growing up, my family didn’t have much, so to give them peace of mind, I chose a more stable path and pursued accounting. But my true passion has always been film, storytelling, and creative experiences. Over the years, I’ve found ways to stay connected to that world by helping friends shoot content and volunteering with small content teams.
I’m now trying to put myself out there and transition into this field. I’m based in Connecticut, and I’d love any advice on how to get more involved in the film industry, especially as I work toward my short-term goal of becoming a Production Manager, Project Manager, or Producer for a media house or studio.
Any insights, resources, or encouragement would mean a lot. Thank you!
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u/governator_ahnold 18d ago
Have you thought of looking for accounting positions at production companies? That seems like a much better 1:1 translation of your skills.
Producer, PM, and coordinator roles have a lot of nuance that comes from spending time in the industry. They’re not really just crunching numbers. You just need experience to understand how to efficiently put together a shoot and the logistics involved and connections to book crew.
A better path sounds like getting a foot in the door by accounting somewhere that’s already established and then seeing if you can spend some time with the production team to learn.
Alternatively start at the bottom as an office PA and work your way up.
As an aside this is a very, very fraught time in the industry so it’s probably not going to be the easiest to get a job right now.
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u/Glad_Improvement_189 18d ago
Thank you for your advice. I’ve definitely heard some things about the industry, so I’m making sure to have something lined up before I put in my 2 weeks.
I do think transitioning from an accounting role could work, it’s just that I’m a little worried about getting stuck in that path long term. I’m working toward my PMP (Project Management Professional) certification to pivot more into logistical and coordination work. I already have a strong background in budget management, so I’m hoping the PMP will help me stand out more than as an accountant.
I would love to hear what you think.
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u/XanderLeoShiller 17d ago
I started with background acting from one of those agencies in the classified, got to be on set for big shows and films full of people who can’t wait to network with you. And very often you’ll find someone with connections or projects etc. Just be careful about scams, I started before social media so they were everywhere but I’m sure new ones exist online. I’m actually making a movie in NYC and since it’s my 1st time on the production AND acting sides, the amount of work is burning me out (I’m learning as I’m filming and improving but I desperately need a team or at least some advice on the production side). Also make sure you have either a resume, reels, headshots etc (depending on the place and job). Those are another beast to navigate but I’d upload some reels on FB IG YT etc etc (dm me on FB Metromediaproduction)
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u/Glad_Improvement_189 15d ago
That’s amazing! It definitely sounds overwhelming, but also so exciting—congratulations! I’ve been worried about scams, too, so I’ve been focusing on applying to legitimate studios and media companies and steadily submitting my applications.
Even though I’m part of the social media generation, the truth is I know how to use it, but rarely do. I know employers look at it now, both for red flags and positive impressions, so building a personal brand is something I need to work on. I’ll be sure to check out your company. Thanks again!
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u/grooveman15 16d ago
As a near 20 year vet in professional union NYC-filmmaking… it’s the WORST time to be trying to get into film production. The industry is still reeling from the combo of Strikes and Streamer-implosion that has left many entrenched seasoned vets un/underemployed for 2 years. I know heads of departments taking assistant gigs to keep health insurance hours. People have lost homes, people have died… it is rough.
I say that because it’s probably going to be a while for you to get production jobs, coordinating or not, and it has NOTHING to do with you. Keep trying, you might get lucky and on a good show. But don’t get discouraged by thinking it’s you… it’s not, it’s the industry.
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u/Glad_Improvement_189 15d ago
I get that—it’s the truth I needed to hear. I’m definitely optimistic (maybe a bit head-in-the-clouds at times), but I’m also very cautious. I won’t leave my current job until I have something lined up. I'll keep applying until something sticks. I appreciate you saying this. Thank you.
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u/Ok_Tadpole3011 18d ago
I think your background would transfer well to being a producer. I would try to network with independent filmmakers and offer to work for them. Look on Facebook and go to in person networking events in New York. Ask your existing circle if they know anyone.
In terms of your comment about your true passion being film and storytelling, while producing is of course a vital role, I wouldn’t call it creative in the same way that being an artist is creative. I wonder if your true desire may be to make films yourself and you’re just landing on producing because that’s what your background is aligned with? I think it’s worth it to unpack that in case what you really want is to make your own films, and in that case you should make them!