Natasha
How did you get into the BBC?
I was in my final year at Uni and applied to be on the Vision Intake Pool. After the application forms and assessment days I found out I was successful and had very fortunately got a place! I pretty much started at the BBC as soon as I handed in my last essay at Uni – so all timed in very well.
What is the best thing about working as a runner?
The job is so varied and you get a great sense of really working towards something great. As I work in Development, my job is creative and you get to nurture thoughts into a programme idea which is amazing – and working in a team towards getting a commission is great. You get the chance to be involved in amazing projects outside of your remit, for example - I’m helping out on The Royal Variety show and have helped out other teams and productions. Generally working at Television Centre is also just incredible, it’s always got so much going on and there’s always such a buzz.
What was the worst thing about working as a runner?
People usually say having to be the run-around can be tiring – but I honestly enjoy it! You have to start somewhere, and as a runner you get the chance to do more then just make the tea. You get to meet great people, and you do have the opportunities to prove your talents and move upwards if you impress at what you do.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to get into the BBC?
Working at the BBC was always my dream post-Uni, and I was really fortunate. I think getting work experience at various Independent companies is a great way to start getting experience in TV and building your understanding of the roles you might be working in. You have to be persistent; sometimes you won’t get a call back or an email reply, but always keep going. Always be yourself and be as approachable and open as possible. Showing you’re keen to learn new talents and skills is always important.
What qualities do you think are essential to be a good runner?
You have to be extremely dedicated to your role, hard-working and open to doing a vast amount of jobs. You always have to take on each opportunity with a smile and never think anything is below you! Everything you do is building your CV and skill set – and that is always a bonus. Organisation is necessary, and using your common sense in a stressful situation is a must. If you approach your work with a positive outlook and a friendly vibe, it’s more likely to get you noticed and liked by those around you. People notice someone who is approachable and always keen to help out, this helps to open new doors for you.
What are you currently doing now and describe a typical day?
I’m currently working in Development for BBC Three – which means my team and I come up with show ideas specifically for the channel. I’m working in a great team who have really amazing ideas so we’ve recently had a show commissioned (coming to your screens in 2011!). My job is varied and my team always give me room to grow and try new things. Most mornings I come in and spend some time going through the newspapers and magazines – scouring them for potential show ideas. We work specifically in Factual Entertainment, and so we’ll have brainstorms and work up a selection of show ideas from insight we’ve all brought to the table. We have meetings with the BBC Three commissioners on a regular basis and spend time between the meetings working up our key ideas. This will involve lots of research tasks, and calling up various different people/organisations to get a well rounded view and idea for a programme. Recently I spent a lot of time Casting for our new show, which meant travelling round England and attending different events to find contributors. It was an amazing experience and I learnt a lot from the people I worked with. I also get a chance to help out on different shows and so get to see the difference between production and development. My job is really creative and I’m very fortunate to be in the team I am.
Where do you see your next role?
Working in Development has been an amazing way to start in TV. I think the next step for me is to move towards Researcher and then try a stint in a production. Working in Entertainment has been so good, so I think this is definitely the area I’d like to stay in.
