Why Don't Animation Graduates Find Work?

What is the Number One Reason why animation graduates don't find work in the animation industry? It isn't Corona Virus, it isn't that their demo reel isn't ready, and it isn't that they are not good enough or sufficiently qualified to find work. In fact, the No 1 reason why animation graduates don't find work in their chosen field is....watch the short video above to find out.

Why Don't Animation Graduates Find Work?

Artwork by Joe Gamble

OK, so you've watched the video and you now know the answer.  It seems so reductive to say to aspiring animators that if you don't apply for work, you won't find it; it is such an obvious point to make - why even make it? And yet, not applying for jobs is the default position for many aspiring artists.

Fear of Failure
It comes, most likely, from a lack of confidence, and a reluctance to take a risk on applying for something which might not work out. Aspiring artists need to remember that rejection is normal; you will be rejected not just by many but my most of the places you apply to.  Getting hired requires an almost perfect match of skills on your part and needs on the part of your employer. If the stars are not in alignment, it won't work out. So you have to apply to many, many companies, and keep applying. Do not be discouraged by failure - it is just a step on the road to success.

"Flame" by Amedeo Beretta

Jobs Resources at Animation Apprentice
We have many resources available at Animation Apprentice aimed at helping our students find work in the animation industry. To get started, see the blog posts below:

• How do graduates find work in the animation industry?
• Demo Reel Advice - at Skwigly
• Demo Reel Advice by Animal Logic
• Why Animators Need to be on LinkedIn
• Be the Rhino - remember that rejection is normal
• Six Rules to Create a Great CV
• How to Write a Cover Letter
• How to Find an Animation Internship
• Blue Zoo Recruitment Tips
• Escape Studios' Free Industry Survival Guide
• Escape Studios Free Careers Guide
• Michael Morgan: "From the Classroom to the Studio"
• Why Animators Need their Own Blog or Website
• How to be a Freelance Animator
• 12 Rules to Find Work in the Animation Industry
• Pixar Advice for Graduates

To find out more about Animation Apprentice, click here for a link to Frequently Asked Questions. To sign up for our next classroom at Animation Apprentice, follow this link.