As a student you will be given access to Hollywood Hawks who are open to help you in any way they can. That said, please always present your best self and never take a connection you’ve made for granted. The students who have the greatest success making the transition from academia to their professional lives are the ones who follow these rules.
1. BE RESPECTFUL.
Please remember that Hollywood Hawks are busy professionals. As you may know, this business can be brutal (which is why you must LOVE it) with loooooong hours and weeks or months of time with no days off. Because of this, please don’t get frustrated if a member doesn’t answer your emails as quickly as you’d like. Also, if you make a contact with someone who is doing something that you don’t want to do, never disrespect them by insulting their career choice. You can learn something from almost any professional in this business
2. BE ON IT.
Although I’ve stated that a professional may take a bit longer getting back to you about something, you need to be on it. For example, if a professional says to send your resume to them tonight, that’s what you should do. Due to their schedule, that may be the only time he or she has open before they start a big project. So, if you miss this window, they may not have time to help with it for a while. Also, if they suggest that you contact someone they know, do it soon after they tell you about them. This business is not a relaxing one where you can ever kickback and expect things to just happen. You must always be “hungry” and on your toes. On the bright side, if you are a go-getter, you are guaranteed to have some success in this industry.
3. BE DILIGENT.
Hollywood Hawks want to help make your entrance into the entertainment world an easier one, but they shouldn’t have to do all the work for you. You must do your research about this business, too. If someone mentions an internship program they’ve heard about…YOU do the research to get more details. A Hollywood Hawk may be kind enough to help steer you in the right direction and assist you however they can, but in the meantime you need to be helping yourself by reading, learning and networking.
4. BE POSITIVE.
You don’t have to win popularity contests to do well in this business, but if people like you they will want to help you. It’s that simple. Many of you will work as freelancers and you know how you’ll get most of your jobs? Your connections. And guess what, if a person thinks you are grumpy, negative, and not-so-fun to be around, they won’t stick their neck out to help you get a job. It’s the same thing with Hollywood Hawks. People don’t want to refer people for work if there’s a chance that person will make them look bad. On the flip side, if people think you’re talented, hardworking AND have great people skills, people will be excited to help you. Professionals love hearing, “Hey John! You know that man/woman you sent my way? They are fantastic!”
5. BE GRATEFUL.
When most Hollywood Hawks hear about the work student outreach we’re doing they say, “I wish they had this group when I was at KU.” Truth is, many of us worked for years to understand how this industry works and to make substantial contacts…all from scratch and on our own. You are tapping into a supportive group of Jayhawks who want you to succeed and reach your dreams. Make sure anyone who helps you along the way gets the sense that you are grateful for their assistance.
By following these simple rules, we are confident you will have a positive experience with our Hollywood Hawks group.