With film production in hiatus, many freelancers are wondering what other work they can do and how they are going to make ends meet.
ScreenSkills has commissioned a series of four standalone workshops to help professionals with information and practical advice on financial and business skills. The initiative is supported by the BFI, awarding National Lottery funds, and led by Alison Grade, author of The Freelance Bible.
Each online session tackles a different topic and is recorded so that those who were unable to attend can benefit from the workshops at a later stage.
The first session, hosted on 20 April, focused on money. Topics covered included tips on money management during the crisis and Government support for freelancers. The recordings of the session can be revisited here.
The second session, on 19 May, will focus on understanding, managing and dealing with anxieties created by the lockdown. The aim of the session is to give participants some strategies for keeping their mental health in good shape and to know when to seek professional help should this be necessary. Register here to attend.
The third session will take place on 2 June and discusses how freelancers can develop their personal brand and market themselves. The first half of the training will focus on existing skills, the meaning of success and on career goals. The second half covers creating marketing materials and presenting yourself to potential employers. Register here to attend.
During the final session 16 June, freelancers will be given advice on getting new work. It covers topics including setting rates, developing and nurturing a network virtually, writing good pitches and emails and presenting yourself well in virtual meetings. Register here to attend.