Overcoming Gatekeeping and Navigating Industry Politics

Jul '24 (edited) • 💬 | General Discussion

Hey Everyone,

I hope you're all doing well.

Today, I want to tackle a topic that's been on many of our minds: overcoming gatekeeping and navigating the often tricky waters of industry politics.

This is something that affects us all, no matter where we are in our careers.

Specific Pain Points:

Many of us have faced challenges related to:

Politics: The behind-the-scenes maneuvering that can often feel like a game of chess.
Hierarchies: The rigid structures that can make it difficult to climb the ladder.
Respect: The struggle to earn and maintain respect in a competitive environment.
Ego Checks: Dealing with individuals who let their egos drive their actions.
Lack of Opportunity: Feeling stuck and unable to break through to the next level.
Gatekeeping: Those invisible barriers that seem to prevent access to opportunities and resources.

Personal Experience:

When I first started out, I quickly realized that talent alone wasn't enough.

I had to navigate a web of politics and hierarchies, often feeling like I was playing catch-up. Respect wasn't easily given, and ego checks were a daily reality.

I had to literally prove myself every second I was on and off set. **

One particular instance stands out. I remember shooting a music video for a Rapper named Belly and it was the first big project that I’d done. I had never really worked with a bigger budget but I knew I could do it because it was just another day doing what I was naturally gifted at doing.

I felt like an outsider, and breaking through the established circles seemed impossible.

The “gatekeepers” were in full force, and every attempt to prove my worth was met with resistance.

I had requested these battery operated lights and only had me and my roommate as crew. I was running around with a massive camera on me while switching batteries in and out as the lights died during filming. Not to mention, we were shooting a car shot and the filter dropped off and broke and I was told that it would be taken out of my already sacrificed low rate on top of the fact that I might not work again.

But I didn't let that stop me.

I realized that resilience was key.

I started networking more strategically, reaching out to people who could offer genuine advice and support on how to approach the situation.

Slowly, I built relationships with clients, more experienced DP’s, producers and peers who valued my work and respected my hustle.

Fast forward like 3 years later and these people would be calling me a “visionary” because battery operated lights would save them in a pinch, and the people telling me I would never work again in the industry were begging me for a job. (which I of course accepted)

Here Are Some Of My Solutions:

Network to Your Full Potential:

Be Genuine: Authenticity goes a long way.

Leverage Social Media: Use platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and industry-specific forums to connect with professionals. Share your work, comment on others' posts, and engage in meaningful conversations.

Attend Industry Events: Whether virtual or in-person, these events are gold mines for networking. Prepare an elevator pitch, bring business cards, and follow up with people you meet.

Mindset of an Overcomer:

Resilience: Understand that setbacks are part of the journey. Learn from them and keep pushing forward.

Positive Attitude: Stay optimistic. Your mindset will determine your approach and actions.

Continuous Learning: Always be open to learning new skills and improving existing ones. This not only makes you more versatile but also keeps you relevant.

"It's easy to say 'no!' when a deeper 'yes!' is burning inside." - The Power Of A Positive No - Stephen R. Covey

Building Relationships:

Value Exchange: Focus on what YOU can offer in return.

Follow Up: After initial meetings or introductions, ALWAYS FOLLOW UP.

Be Reliable: Consistency and reliability build trust.

Encouragement:

I want to hear from you!

Have you faced similar challenges with gatekeeping and politics in our industry?

How did you overcome them? Or maybe you're still navigating these waters and need some advice.

Share your stories and strategies in the comments below. Let's learn from each other and build a stronger, more supportive community.

IF YOUR READING THIS, THESE ARE YOUR NEXT STEPS:

Engage: "Share your own stories and strategies for overcoming gatekeeping. Your experiences could be the key to helping someone else."

Book a Call: "If you'd like to dive deeper into your unique challenges, book a free 1-on-1 call through the community tab. Let's work together to find the best path forward."

Looking forward to hearing from all of you and continuing this important conversation.

Best, Jordan

https://www.loom.com/share/8e593328ed584a09a48dcabd4d9d9deb?sid=bfcf0824-daa5-42dd-8e60-7ed4b9a2e039

Heres the link to the worksheet: https://provisionacademy.notion.site/Overcoming-Gatekeeping-and-Navigating-Industry-Politics-df379da786d34bd781c811942d213042?pvs=4

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