Television runner — Emily
Emily gained a BA(Hons) Television Production from the University of Gloucestershire. She now works as a freelance runner and production assistant
How did you get your job?
I am currently working as a freelance runner/production assistant in the television industry. Most television jobs are advertised on Facebook, so make sure you join groups such as 'People in TV: Runners'.
As a freelancer, I have worked on multiple productions since graduating. My most recent job on a major Channel 4 competition programme was a result of a lecturer putting me in contact with an alumnus, who passed my CV onto a talent manager. From this, I was offered a few days of runner work, during which I made a good impression and consequently secured two longer contracts.
How relevant is your degree?
Being a predominantly vocational course, my television production degree is entirely relevant. It has set me up well to work in television, as I learnt both soft and hard skills to an industry standard.
What's a typical working day like?
Typically, from my experience as a runner, my days have involved an early start to help prepare the set/location for filming. From that point on, I've been on hand to assist wherever needed:
- making refreshments for talent
- taking behind-the-scenes (BTS) photographs
- helping the team in the production office
- organising equipment and gathering release forms.
It really all depends on the production.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Every production is different, so you're constantly working in new environments and locations with new people. It is also an incredible (and sometimes surreal) privilege to witness how such iconic programmes operate behind the scenes. I'm sure that novelty will wear off at some point, but it is still very exciting for me at the moment.
What are the challenges?
As a runner, the hours are long and you're often away from home, so work can feel all-consuming if you don't find time to decompress at the end of each day.
However, as a freelancer generally, the biggest challenge is the unpredictability and lack of job security.
Where do you hope to be in five years?
I hope to have risen up the career ladder and perhaps be working as a researcher or junior assistant producer in studio or factual entertainment.
What advice can you give to others?
- 'Multi-skilling' makes an individual much more employable, so don't shy away from trying new things and learning the basics of everything, even if certain skills stray from your primary interests.
- In television, your reputation is of utmost influence and importance, so work hard to make a good impression and try to keep in touch with people.
- For freelancers, having a separate side hustle/flexible job to go back to between contracts is really useful. If possible, try to build a strong rapport with your employer, as they may be willing to give you flexibility to disappear off when television work comes up and then welcome you back for shifts when you need them again.
Find out more
- Discover what you can do with your degree in television production.
- Learn more about working as a television production coordinator.
- Gain an insight into the media and internet sector.
- Find out more about the BA Television Production course at the University of Gloucestershire.