Many people put all the focus on their demo reel. If all the focus is on the reel, then that is the only thing you will be judged on. Not your personality, work ethics, experience, creativity, etc. Sure a killer reel is nice, but some artists are stagnant for years because they never promote themselves, because they feel like they don't have a reel and that is the only way to convince people to hire them.
Market yourself first, your work second. If people like you, they will be more likely to work with you and take a chance on you, even if you don't have a lot of content to show.
I would start networking, start going to events and passing out cards, tell people what you do. You can also go and interview professionals at local studios, get their insights on the market. As a creative director I was interviewed all the time (a lot of it was college students exploring career paths) and I think anyone at any level can do this. Especially people looking to transition into a new market.
First of all it's such a great ego boost to the director, they love to talk about themselves and what they do. You'll get some info, get some contacts, and start to get into the mix.
I could go on for pages on how to develop your creative career, but the main thing is don't feel like just because you don't have "a reel" you are locked out of anything. Get into the mix and sell yourself for now.
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Franklin McMahon / Host
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