Are you wired to a world of opportunity?

It’s a familiar story. The Internet is an important element of all business these days and traditional companies are eager to employ those who have worked on the front line of the digital economy. Despite the knock-back Simone is very positive about her experience. ‘I don’t regret my time in new media. It was an exhilarating, if short, period of my career that has broadened my options and taught me a great deal. Who knows, I might return someday.’ For many who have left new media, that’s still a possibility. Despite the recent setbacks, new media is still very much alive. The Web is becoming an everyday part of millions of people’s lives. There is a plethora of new platforms and devices just around the corner: interactive TV, next generation wireless devices and bluetooth technologies. All of these will provide creative and commercial opportunities over the next few years.

In the last 12 months, the industry has seen a flood of venture capital investment, paper millionaires, dozens of new business models, lay-offs and dot.com crashes. For Simone and many others, it’s been a hairy but ultimately worthwhile journey. It may not be the get-rich-quick scheme that people once hoped for, but if you can hold your nerve, it is still one of the UK’s most exciting and innovative industries to be involved in.

Useful websites

New Media Knowledge. Organisation providing analysis and support for new media professionals working in the UK.

The Phoenix Network. Network looking at women’s position and concerns in the UK new media industry.

Metro New Media. Highly regarded training company, which runs introductory courses in many of the most widely used new media software tools.

Revolution Magazine. Leading magazine for the UK new media industry, with up-to-date news and reports.

Internet Content. A good source of articles and analysis on the new media industry.

Chinwag. The industry’s most active email discussion lists – join these to get a flavour of the debates and issues concerning new media professionals.

More

Computers & Internet on iVillage

  Related Links

• What teachers want
• Volunteering: the perks are free
• A career in IT? Part 2: courses
• It’s your call: the facts about call centres
• Work & Money Home

  Most viewed

• How to be a good manager
• Career choices
• Start your own business
• Personal skills
• Choosing a career