The Power of “Strategic Creativity In The Competitive Entertainment Industry”

By Caitlyn Soya

At PRSSA ICON, I attended a “Strategic Creativity in the Competitive Entertainment Industry” session. The panelists included Gary Miereanu from GT Marmots/PR, Inc., Mercy Castro from NBCUniversal Universal and Tim O’Day from TO’DAY Group PR.

The session was packed, and getting a seat was competitive, just like the industry. Sitting in the front row, I wanted to make sure I made an impression. They specifically talked about the entertainment industry and how to get your foot in the door.

Breaking into the industry can be a challenge in itself. California is known as the hub for all film fans and professionals. With such a large market, it can become oversaturated. This can make it difficult to distinguish yourself within this industry. A few ways to combat this are to observe seasoned professionals who can provide mentorship and advice, advocate for yourself and show your value.

Listen and Learn
“Be quiet and absorb everything around you,” Castro said. “Listen and shadow the people in the room and see how they strategize.”

I never thought that listening could be just as valuable as sharing your opinions. By listening though you’re able to pick up on things you may not have heard otherwise.

“Ask where you can add value, or what role can be filled,” O’Day said. By providing value, you’re showing the employer that you’re able to contribute something meaningful.

Convey Confidence
Something meaningful that I wanted to do was show that I cared about the panelists taking the time to speak to us. I valued all their information, and I wanted to gain as much knowledge as I could.

At the end of the session, the panelists were allowed to answer questions from students. I took the opportunity to ask a question that would provide me with a new perspective: “What advice has a mentor given you that you could share with us?”

Castro was quick to answer this question, and I now can lead with this in any situation.

“Be confident, walk in with confidence, talk with confidence,” Castro said.

The entertainment industry is now one I’m even more passionate about entering. Learning tips from people who have a secure career, made me feel like one day I’ll have a secure career in this industry. I will always make sure to be confident. I want to be able to step into a room and not feel imposter syndrome, or feel like my experience is not less than someone else’s. If I can harbor this confidence, I believe it’ll help me land a spot in this competitive industry.