Media & Entertainment is an industry that carries out much of its hiring into the Spring semester. It is also heavily 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 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 is vital and an excellent way to evidence your enthusiasm for the industry/employer.
What should international students keep in mind going into their job/internship search?
While many straightforward M&E employers in the U.S. (film studios, gaming, broadcasting) will require applicants to have permanent U.S. work authorization, adjacent industries (tech/media, for example) are much more willing to offer visa sponsorship. International students set on M&E as an industry should also consider opportunities outside of the U.S. from major M&E firms.
What does full-time recruiting look like in Spring ?
Full-time recruiting is primarily ‘just-in-time.’ Employers want to fill these roles right away for immediate starts. Graduating students should plan to spend Spring-1networking, Spring-2 applying to roles and continuing to network, and anticipate starting work in early Summer. Negotiation on start date is typically not an option for just-in-time hiring.
What does internship recruiting look like?
Internship recruiting is the best path toward a full-time role. For the Spring, students are more likely to find available internship roles with small M&E firms, as larger ones tend to extend offers by the end of January. 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)
