Adapt and Tailor your CV to the job you’re applying for; ideally, this should be no more than 2 pages, if possible.
The Information needs to be up-to-date; don’t be afraid, to ask a friend or family member to proof read it for you.
Cross check your CV alongside the job description or job advert to ensure you’ve outlined; where you have skills and experience needed for the role. For creative positions, your Show-reel needs to be engaging and sell your best work. Ideally, no longer than 3 minutes; tailored to the position you’re applying for. For example: A good Animation Show-reel will display funny character pieces with solid acting and lip sync. Displaying your experience of Animation, speech/or relevant sound effects. You can make reference to the reel in your covering letter explaining what software you used to create the animation.
Research the Role and the Company – Be Specific tell them ‘why you want the role’ and ‘why at their studio’. Avoid blanket emails to all studios!
Set up a LinkedIn profile to promote your experience, make connections, read inspiring articles and follow companies of interest.
Last but not least… Passion is the key to a great application! You may not have all the skills and experience for the role in your professional career-to-date but it’s great to hear about candidates expanding their learning in their spare time, keeping up to date by trialling new software or taking on passion projects with friends. Hobbies and interests can be a great talking point at interview and can also add character and personality to your application.
Don’t be afraid to ask Questions – it’s the best way to learn and we’re all still doing this at Aardman every-day!! You can do this with professionals on LinkedIn, in your interview or through the ACCESS:VFX mentor scheme. The Aardman Blog on our website includes interviews with just some of our Aardman partners, their roles as well as students who have completed courses through Aardman’s Academy.
Blog written by By Claire Brindley - Senior HR Advisor at Aardman Animation Ltd
