Media & Entertainment is an industry reliant on networking. Successful candidates dedicate ample time toward conversations with those working in the industry. They also showcase their enthusiasm for the industry itself and the business-end of the industry. Such dedication resonates positively with recruiters and hiring managers alike.
What is a recruiting trend I should keep in mind as I conduct my internship/job search?
Recruiters at media companies have confirmed that C-suite goals are to become leaner and more efficient. So far, this means fewer product manager roles and a greater focus on business operations and technical roles that demand AI experience.
What is the recruiting approach I should keep in mind as I conduct my internship/job search?
Media & Entertainment primarily focuses on internship-level recruiting, with some members of an internship class receiving return offers weeks after the conclusion of the summer internship. Larger M&E employers rely on leadership development programs to give interns a broad view of the employer and its various functional teams.
Does M&E embrace applicants who are looking to pivot? Rely on previous experience?
Pivoting into M&E is absolutely possible, although employers will look for evidence of an applicant’s interest in the Media & Entertainment landscape. This can be shown through past work within the industry, club membership, and personal pursuits. Showing confidence in your ability, even if pivoting into a new function, is important.
How important is networking in this industry?
Networking in this industry is CRUCIAL, famously known for its reliance on “who you know.” Networking with alumni and professionals within the industry should be primary. While hiring managers and recruiters may make themselves available for engagements, these opportunities are less frequent. Attending events (school specific as well as multi-school events) offered by M&E employers are vital and an excellent way to evidence your enthusiasm for the industry/employer.
Is there anything unique about the interviewing process?
In recent years, larger M&E employers have included participation in treks as part of the application process (see Warner Bros. Discovery, Paramount Pictures). This is a unique way to consolidate the hiring process that requires the applicant to show commitment to the employer and evidence their interest in the industry itself.
What does full-time recruiting look like? Are internships the best path to a full-time role?
Full-time recruiting primarily exists as ‘just-in-time’ recruiting, with roles opening due to someone leaving that role or in the case of a return offer being declined or reneged. Internships are the best path forward in this industry.
What does internship recruiting look like?
Internship recruiting is the best path toward a full-time role. Larger M&E employers tend to open applications to internship programs/roles in early-to-mid October, with application deadlines in mid-November/early December. These larger firms may also host virtual or in-person treks in January to further refine their application pool (see question #5). Smaller M&E employers will open applications throughout the Spring semester, typically as need and funding are approved by corporate offices. The specific functions offered in any given year are also determined by need and funding.
RESOURCE GUIDE
- Who Went Where (CMS)
- Media & Entertainment channel (CDO website)
- Hey CMS, how can I… (CDO website)
- Outcomes Index (CMS)
- Salary Database (CMS)
- Offer Timeline (CMS)
- Offer Job Source (CMS)
- Offer Trends (CMS)
