What Transferable Skills Do TV Producers Have?
Typing “Top Transferable Skills for TV Producers Transitioning Careers” into a search bar can feel disheartening for many in the industry right now. The truth is, the television industry is undergoing seismic changes. There simply aren’t enough jobs to sustain a consistent annual income for many professionals. Worse still, the nature of the jobs that remain has shifted—longer hours, increased pressure, and less downtime have become the new norm.
Stories of extreme hardship are everywhere on social media platforms frequented by TV industry professionals. The recurring question is: What else can I do?
It’s easy to think of TV as a highly specialized field and assume, “It’s all I know.” But the reality is far more hopeful. People in TV production possess exceptional transferable skills that are highly valued in a variety of industries.
While production crews face their own unique challenges—which I’ll explore in more detail later this week—this post focuses on actionable ideas for TV producers. Below are some thoughts on career alternatives and how to showcase the invaluable skills you’ve developed in TV production.
Support Sources for Those Thinking on Leaving TV
There are a wealth of support groups for freelancers I’ve listed some below
https://www.facebook.com/groups/thetvmindset
The TV mindset is a great place to seek help advice and vent. You will find a great group of like-minded highly supportive members
Below is a fantastic resource you can download put together by the admins at
https://www.facebook.com/groups/tvswitchup a group start for mums working in TV, yes they alow dads and non-parents into the group!! this is a fantastic resource.
Some Ideas as a starting Point
People transitioning out of the TV production industry have a wealth of transferable skills that can open doors to a variety of other careers. Here are ten jobs that suit their skill sets:
1. Project Manager
• Why it suits: Production roles often involve managing schedules, budgets, and teams—key responsibilities in project management.
• Industries: Technology, construction, marketing, corporate events.
2. Event Planner/Producer
• Why it suits: TV professionals excel at coordinating complex events and managing logistics under tight deadlines.
• Industries: Weddings, conferences, festivals, corporate events.
3. Creative Director/Content Strategist
• Why it suits: Experience in storytelling, branding, and creative execution aligns perfectly with roles in advertising or marketing.
• Industries: Advertising agencies, social media platforms, creative studios.
4. Digital Media Manager
• Why it suits: Familiarity with content creation, editing, and audience engagement is valuable for managing digital campaigns.
• Industries: Digital marketing, social media, e-commerce.
5. Scriptwriter/Copywriter
• Why it suits: Strong writing and storytelling skills transfer well to creating scripts, marketing copy, or corporate communications.
• Industries: Advertising, publishing, corporate training.
6. Trainer/Educator
• Why it suits: Many TV professionals develop excellent communication and mentoring skills, ideal for teaching media, production, or soft skills.
• Industries: Education, vocational training, corporate training.
7. Talent Agent/Manager
• Why it suits: TV professionals often have networks and experience working with on-screen and off-screen talent.
• Industries: Talent agencies, casting firms, management companies.
8. Operations Manager
• Why it suits: Experience overseeing production processes and coordinating teams applies directly to operations management.
• Industries: Retail, logistics, non-profits, corporate.
9. Public Relations Specialist
• Why it suits: Skills in managing messaging, dealing with the press, and crafting narratives translate well to PR.
• Industries: PR agencies, corporate communications, crisis management.
10. User Experience (UX) Designer
• Why it suits: Understanding how audiences consume content can be leveraged to improve digital experiences.
• Industries: Tech companies, app development, website design.
Key Strengths to Highlight:
• Problem-Solving: Adapting to last-minute changes and troubleshooting on-set challenges.
• Time Management: Meeting tight deadlines and coordinating multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Teamwork: Collaborating with diverse professionals across creative and technical roles.
• Creativity: Conceptualizing and executing innovative ideas.
• Communication: Managing stakeholders, pitching ideas, and fostering clear collaboration.
Written by Jonathan Glazier
A seasoned media consultant and multi-camera TV director, Jonathan brings decades of global experience in creating, producing, and directing innovative formats. Drawing on insights from the cutting edge of television and media trends, he offers a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities shaping the industry today.