Dreaming of a Career in Audio Visual? Here are 5 Tips to Get Started
Embarking on a career in the audio visual (AV) field is a fantastic adventure! The AV industry is unlike any opportunity in terms of versatility, specialization, and an ever-evolving role. Audio visual technology has become a dynamic aspect of special events, conferences, school and government functions, non-profits, keynote speaking engagements, and so much more. Think of AV pro’s as part techxpert, part project coordinator, part overall superhero.
We love the work we do, and we want to empower future AV pros in their journey. Here are five tips for launching your audio visual career.
1.) Learn and Diversify: All Experience is Good Experience!
All experience is good experience as they say, and nothing could ring truer for the AV industry. Versatility is a sought-after skill for succeeding in AV tech. For example, don’t focus too much on finding entry-level opportunities that directly fit the role you’re ultimately hoping to land. Instead, look at it from a broad targeted approach. The best transferrable skills for AV tech include:
- Communication
- Troubleshooting
- Flexibility and the ability to work with adaptable schedules
- Technology expertise
- Project management
- Event planning
- Customer relations
- Patience
- Collaboration
2.) Implement Smart Networking
Where are the best AV pros learning their skills? Subscribe to relevant newsletters, YouTube channels, blogs, and more to get a headstart on learning the industry. In addition, take time to research successful AV productions for inspiration. What did these teams do right? What challenges did they face? Who are the top competitors in the industry?
The more time you can dedicate to learning about this dynamic, ever-growing industry, the more prepared you’ll be to pitch your skills and knowledge to land that opportunity.
3.) Know the Industry, But Don’t be Afraid of Unknowns
The AV field is driven by strong teams. Although many expect this industry to be more of an independent pursuit, collaboration is everything when it comes to succeeding. Additionally, hours can often be variable and subject to change. So a degree of flexibility is needed, as well as a willingness to tackle unexpected changes in plans. For example, AV professionals often work long days and long nights, switching between video and audio tasks. And set-up often takes place at odd times and is dependent on everything from weather to personnel.
The good news is that you’ll find strong, supportive teams to help you along the way. No one is expected to know everything. If we did, there would be no fun in solving the myriad of puzzles in our day-to-day work. We empower within a structure of employees and welcome ideas and feedback. Ultimately, don’t be afraid of unknowns, and get ready to venture out of your comfort zone!
4.) Embrace Change in a Dynamic Environment
The AV industry is constantly evolving. As a result, you need to be open to evolution within your own career because the industry grows broader every day. You’ll learn new tools, new technology, and new ways of doing things that will benefit your professional journey. Ultimately, a calm and composed attitude goes a long way in this industry. We know that none of us will ever be done learning, and we embrace the evolution of change within audio visual technology.
5.) Get Connected to Audio Visual Professionals!
Make those connections and expand your professional network! Think outside the AV box and make an effort to get to know professionals in the IT admin industry and adjacent industries, such as event producers, communication partners, hybrid event planners, and more. Creative communications, marketing, and design often play an important role in delivering success. Lastly, be open to learning from a diverse range of industry leaders rather than a set few.
Still wondering if AV is a good fit for your skills? Come meet our team! If you’re interested in attending a job site to see what the day-to-day operations entail, contact us today. We look forward to meeting you.