You love telly, you’re transfixed by your favourite programs and are brimming with ideas for future shows. It’s an industry that can seem impenetrable, so how do you get your foot in the door? And once it’s in there, how do you make yours stand out from all the other feet? Times Online Student asked Cat Lynch, development associate producer who began her career with just the toe-hold of an internship. Here is her five-step guide:

Where do I start?

It may conjure images of photocopying and endless tea rounds, but work experience is a well-trodden path into a career in TV. Being a workie is a great way of making contacts and it will give you the opportunity to show you’re keen, resourceful and easy to work with. It can lead to becoming a ‘runner’ which is the first rung of the TV ladder. Becoming a runner has the added advantage that you can be paid as there are specific government guidlines just for these sorts of arrangements

Should I do a media degree?

You do not need to have studied broadcasting to get into TV. While it might help you gain some useful skills and contacts, no employer will stipulate that you need a media degree. In fact, depending on your area of interest, totally unrelated degrees and experience can be more useful, as long as you can demonstrate that you have an interest in the area. Scientists, for example, are few and far between in the TV world, but there are plenty of science shows. Equally, historians are often in demand for documentaries and factual shows.

How do I get in?

Getting an interview is all about preparation and persistence. Before applying, do your research. Read the company website thoroughly and make sure to be well versed and up to date on their line-up of programs and what their content is. Find out what kind of TV it makes, and the genres it focuses on specifically. Read trade mags to find out what's happening in the industry (try Broadcast for a start).

Next, write a CV and cover letter that gets you noticed (for tips on writing CVs and cover letters click on the links).You'll need to explain why you are interested in working for the production company you are applying to. Always check your CV and letter for mistakes – it has to be perfect. Once you have sent your CV and cover letter, follow it up with a call.

If you are lucky enough to know anyone in the business, don’t be afraid to use your contacts. Pester people, but do it with charm.

How can I impress at interview?

Once you’ve got an interview, be prepared. Julia Dodd – Head of People (read: hiring) at Monkey Television says it’s vital that interviewees are focused. “It’s no good telling me you want to work in ‘media’,” she says. “I need to know you have a passion for television and are willing to work hard to get there. I don’t need you to have any experience, but the ability to talk intelligently about what you watch and what you would like to make is vital.”

So, I've got the job! What next?

It sounds obvious, but once you’ve got you're in, make the most of it. “I am always amazed when I come across sullen, reluctant work experience/runners,” says Julia. “Treat it as a prolonged interview.” It’s true, you won’t be doing the most creative, inspiring work. Do the fiddly stuff with enough enthusiasm and take some initiative once you know the ropes and you should soon find yourself being given more interesting responsibilities. TV is all about word of mouth. If you have impressed someone, they will recommend you. Making friends in the business is about more than a fun drink after work – being sociable as well as hardworking will make your efforts stick in people’s minds.

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