Arts, A/V Technology & Communications:
Skills & Job Outlook for this Career Cluster
On The Job:
- Freelance and short-term positions are common in this field, especially for entry-level positions. It's common for workers to have a second job to help pay the bills, especially for fine and performing artists.
- Many arts, A/V technology and communications workers are expected to be multitalented. It's not unusual for one person to use skills in many parts of the process — from researching, creating, writing or editing, to performing or delivering information to the audience.
- Having talent is essential. Even more important is the ability to handle criticism and face rejection. Workers need to be comfortable performing or showing projects and performances in front of an audience.
- Communications work can be stressful and fast paced. Meeting deadlines is crucial for jobs related to journalism, broadcasting, and print and multimedia publishing.
- Most artists like dancers and musicians begin training at a very young age. Typically, they practice and rehearse long hours. Performers are expected to be versatile and willing to travel for shows.
What Skills Do You Need?
- Computer skills are required to adapt to technological changes.
- Creativity to uniquely express ideas and generate new ways of presenting information.
- Detail orientation is needed to convey accurate messages to audiences.
- Persistence to stick to your dreams, especially when the competition is tough.
- Self-confidence to perform in front of an audience and accept criticism.
- Visual color discrimination for visually displaying information or items.
- Writing and speaking skills are essential for effectively communicating information to others.
Job Outlook: GOOD
The outlook for many arts, A/V technology and communications jobs is good. Competition is fierce for many of these jobs, especially entry-level positions. Therefore, related internships and work experience is essential.
Beginners in radio and TV broadcasting positions can expect to start at smaller stations, often in small towns, or to work odd hours of the day, but will move up with experience.
Technology has effected all communications occupations. New media or electronic communications, like online gaming, audio and video downloads and blogs, have sprouted new jobs and new duties for writers, editors and graphic designers. And computers have advanced the equipment used to work with film, video and still photography.
Workers in this industry have to keep their technology skills up to date in order to remain competitive.
Workers in the performing arts must be prepared to compete for job openings with solid portfolios, relevant work experience and the necessary training for their field. Competition is also strong among illustrators, cartoonists and animators working in the motion picture and gaming industries.
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