Working as a PA in the Media Sector
A fast-paced, creative environment, the media industry is an engaging sector for PAs looking to be on the front lines of industry developments and trends. With an affluent average salary of £44,741 per annum, according to our latest salary survey, and applications on site rising year-on-year, media jobs are seemingly becoming the go-to for individuals seeking exciting, high-profile and innovative work.
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What differentiates working as a PA in Media, compared to other sectors?
PA media jobs present the need to acquire specific skills and knowledge that may differ from those needed in other industries. Due to the creative nature of media, you must be comfortable with dealing with a unique form of public scrutiny, whilst understanding your executive’s needs. Whilst aspects of working as PA in the media sector remain distinct, the role shares common characteristics with PAs in other industries, from organisation and communication abilities, to the need for discretion and confidentiality.
As a basis, your role will differ by:
• Spending time engaging with a dynamic and fast-paced environment. The media sector is known for its ever-changing nature - a dynamic way of life, this leads to tasks and priorities shifting rapidly, requiring PAs to be adaptable and quick on their feet. This constant change can make the role more unpredictable compared to PAs in some other sectors.
• Working with high-profile events. The media sector poses the requirement to organise and coordinate high-profile events, premieres, and other high-profile occasions. Adding an element of excitement and exclusivity to the job role, that is arguably not as prevalent in other industries.
• Interacting with creatives - Media PAs work closely with creative professionals, such as writers, directors, actors, and producers. Working with this close knit community provides a unique insight into the entertainment and media production world.
• Networking opportunities. The media industry is highly relationship-driven, with PAs often having the chance to build extensive networks. Building connections with influential individuals in the media sector can be a valuable aspect of the job and may present opportunities for personal and professional growth.
• Involvement in invigorating projects. Media projects, whether in film, television, or other forms of entertainment, can be particularly high-profile and exciting. PAs may find themselves involved in the planning and execution of these projects, contributing to the overall excitement and energy of the industry.
• Exposure to industry trends and innovations. As noted, the media sector is at the forefront of technological advancements and industry trends. PAs working in media may have more exposure to cutting-edge technologies, digital platforms, and emerging trends compared to those in other sectors.
• So, what are the unique challenges and pressures? Working in media brings its challenges from tight deadlines, intense competition, and public scrutiny. PAs in this sector may therefore experience different pressures compared to those working in more traditional or corporate environments.
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What does it take to become a leading PA in the Media industry?
As noted within our ‘5 key attributes of a great PA article’, enhancing your status from a ‘good PA’, to an ‘exceptional PA’, encompasses five main elements: flexibility, a positive mindset, communication, organisation, and pro-activity. There’s a certain flair to an exceptional PA, that reigns even more true within the media industry - whether you’re working as a celebrity PA to celebrities, actors, or high-profile personalities in the media, or supporting producers as their executive assistant, you need to be able to work with those in the public eye, deal with PR, and have a level of etiquette and discretion.
To become a leading PA in your field, you must:
• Secure your familiarity with media-specific terminology and industry jargon. This knowledge facilitates effective communication and ensures that PAs can seamlessly integrate into the media environment.
• Present a foundational understanding of media production processes, including film, television, or other content creation. Knowing the workflow, timelines, and key roles within production teams helps PAs support their executives more effectively.
• PAs in the media sector may be involved in organising high-profile events such as film premieres, screenings, or press events. Skills in event planning, coordination, and managing logistics for such occasions are extremely valuable.
• Be confident in dealing with public relations. PAs often work with individuals who are in the public eye - understanding the basics of public relations, managing media requests, and handling public appearances are essential skills in the media sector.
• Conduct research on industry trends, competitors, or potential collaborators. Research skills, including the ability to gather relevant information quickly, are valuable in supporting decision-making processes.
• Have an understanding and knowledge of digital and social platforms. Digital and social media play a significant role in the media landscape. PAs may be tasked with managing social media accounts, coordinating online content, or staying informed about online trends, hence the need to stay on top of the game.
• Present script and content review expertise. As a media PA, you may need to review scripts, content proposals, or creative materials. Understanding the basics of storytelling, script formats, and content development can be advantageous in providing valuable insights and feedback.
• Master a celebrity protocol. PAs in the media sector often interact with high-profile individuals, including celebrities. Knowing the proper etiquette for dealing with VIPs, understanding privacy concerns, and respecting confidentiality are crucial.
• Obtain expertise on the certain software tools that are specific to the media industry, such as editing software, project management tools used in production, or industry-specific databases. Proficiency in these tools can enhance a PA's effectiveness.
• Understand the basics of media rights, contracts, and licensing agreements. PAs may be involved in coordinating contracts, managing permissions, or handling administrative aspects of media projects.
• Be prepared to handle unexpected situations, including crises that may attract public attention. Developing crisis management skills and maintaining composure under pressure are important.
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What type of PA roles are available in Media?
PA media jobs vary greatly by media type, whether you’re working in film, television, or behind the scenes. The dynamic nature of media leads to great diversity in possible job roles. You could work as:
• An Executive PA: supporting high-level executives, such as CEOs, directors, or producers, managing schedules, coordinating meetings, handling communication, and providing general administrative support.
• Celebrity PA: working closely with celebrities, actors, or high-profile personalities, managing personal schedules, handling public appearances, coordinating travel arrangements, and ensuring privacy and security.
• Production PA: assisting in the production process of media projects, such as films, TV shows, or commercials, organising and coordinating shoots, managing logistics, and providing administrative support to the production team.
• Talent coordination: working with talent agencies or media companies to coordinate the schedules and activities of actors, musicians, or other artists. This role involves arranging auditions, managing contracts, and ensuring smooth communication between talent and production teams.
• Media PA focusing on public relations: supporting PR professionals in the media sector by managing media relations, drafting press releases, coordinating interviews, and handling communication between clients and the media.
• Media PA focusing on content: assisting in the development and coordination of media content, whether it's for television, film, online platforms, or publishing. Responsibilities may include liaising with writers, editors, and production teams to ensure smooth content creation.
• Media PA focusing on digital media: aiding professionals involved in digital media, social media, or online content creation. Tasks may include managing social media accounts, coordinating digital campaigns, and staying informed about online trends.
• Agent's Assistant: working with talent agents in the media sector to coordinate auditions, manage client schedules, and handle administrative tasks related to talent representation.
• Personal Assistant to Directors or Producers: providing support to film or television directors, producers, or other key creative personnel. This may involve managing schedules, coordinating meetings, and assisting with administrative tasks related to the production process.
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PA Jobs on SecsintheCity
Whatever pathway you aspire to, SecsintheCity has you covered. Discover our latest PA media jobs on site, alongside ample advice on our blog, from ‘how to become a celebrity PA’, to how to craft a ‘PA CV template’.
Upload your CV to site to get headhunted for the latest advertised, and non-advertised roles.
Looking to hire a PA? Advertise with us at SecsintheCity Recruiter Services.