Breaking into the Creative Industry: A Talk at DeMontfort University
In May, Jasper - the founder of Yellow Glove Productions - visited DeMontfort University to chat with creative students about getting started as freelancers. His talk was packed with practical advice, personal stories, and insights into the local creative industry—everything an emerging creative needs to hear when thinking about stepping into the freelance world!
Getting Started As A Freelancer
Jasper kicked things off by talking about the realities of freelancing. Sure, skill is crucial, but so is understanding the business side of things. He encouraged students to think early on about setting up their personal brand - whether it’s building a professional online presence, managing finances, or knowing the ins and outs of industry standards.
"Your creativity is your product," Jasper said, "but to run a successful business, you need more than just great work." He emphasized the importance of project management, client communication, and, above all, persistence. Freelancing, he reminded everyone, is a journey with its fair share of ups and downs.
Navigating the Local Creative Scene
Jasper gave the students a tour of the local creative industries, pointing out the different niches they could explore, like commercial photography and creative marketing. He stressed the importance of being open to different opportunities and building a portfolio of projects you’d be happy to work on in future employment.
"The local industry is vibrant," he explained, "but standing out is key. Find your niche and own it. Make sure to value your time and work too. It might seem like a good idea to do free work when starting out, but you should always evaluate if that experience is going to improve your portfolio."
The Importance of Networking
Networking, according to Jasper, is one of the most critical elements of a successful freelancing career. He stressed the importance of building and maintaining relationships within the industry, as many opportunities come through word-of-mouth and personal connections.
"Attend events, collaborate with peers, and don’t hesitate to reach out to people whose work you admire," Jasper advised. He also highlighted social media as a great tool for connecting with industry professionals and showcasing your work.
Jasper’s Journey: Building Yellow Glove Productions
Jasper also shared his own story, giving the students a glimpse into how he built Yellow Glove Productions from the ground up. He didn’t sugarcoat it—finding clients was tough at first, and the pressure to constantly innovate was real. What began as a small venture has grown into a well-regarded production company known for its creative marketing and commercial work.
Jasper’s story resonated with many students, as it highlighted the reality that success doesn’t come overnight. His journey was a testament to the power of perseverance, adaptability, and a strong network.
Jasper’s talk was a goldmine of advice for the budding freelancers at DMU. He combined practical tips with real-world insights, giving students a clear picture of what it takes to succeed in the creative industry.
Hands-On Experience at Yellow Glove Productions
In addition to giving this talk, we arranged opportunities for DMU students to gain real-world experience through internships at Yellow Glove Productions. These internships have allowed students to work on a variety of projects, from charity campaigns to commercial photography and creative marketing.
Interns at Yellow Glove Productions have been able to assist on shoots, edit videos, and create content for social media, providing them with a comprehensive understanding of the creative process. This hands-on experience has not only helped students build their portfolios but also given them a taste of what it’s like to work in a professional environment.
As the students at DMU move forward, they’ll do so with the confidence that, while the path to success might be challenging, it’s definitely within reach—with the right mindset and the right support.
Jasper’s talk was packed with advice for the aspiring freelancers at DMU. His insights into the industry, combined with practical advice on starting a business and the importance of networking, provided students with a roadmap to success.