Are you wired to a world of opportunity?

Before you move into any new career, it’s important to get a feel for the industry. The number of employment websites, online resources and networking events dedicated to UK new media industry are on the rise. Check them out if you’re serious. Attending events and talks is an extremely valuable way gaining an insight into the industry. From business seminars to late night drinking binges, it’s surprising how much this new industry relies on old-fashioned introductions and personal contacts for business deals and information sharing. And New Media isn’t just the preserve of men; there are many online and offline groups springing up that focus on women and their progression in the industry. Busygirl, the Phoenix Network and Webgrrls are definitely ones to watch.

She who dares

Anyone thinking about moving into new media needs to be aware of the risks: at the moment it certainly isn’t a business for the faint-hearted. How far the much-publicised US downturn will be repeated here remains to be seen. But already there have been scores of dot.com failures in the UK this year, and a large number of media companies have cut back heavily on their online activities. Big players like BT, Emap and Granada have all been hit. In this climate, redundancy is a real possibility and, however adventurous you may feel, losing a job suddenly can be a real blow to your confidence.

Simone Kerr, used to work for eCountries, an international online magazine. It closed down this year leaving staff shocked and shaken. ‘Everyone went down to the pub together and we drowned our sorrows. The next few days were really hard. It was just weeks before my wedding and I was unemployed and feeling low – my family were really concerned. It was tough to bounce back.’ Simone found a job she is happy with shortly afterwards, and says her new employers were impressed by her new media experiences.

Next page: hold your nerve and go for it