Day in the life

A day in the life : Work Experience - Example - BBC Watchdog

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Career details: Work Experience - Example - BBC Watchdog

What you do: The range of the job.

The BBC programme Watchdog regularly takes people on for work experience/running. Here is what they say: About the Department Watchdog is the BBC's most famous consumer affairs programme and it is one of many to come out of the Consumer Unit. Rogue Traders, Whistleblower and Old Dogs New Tricks are also programmes which the unit produce as well as one-off documentaries and other newly commissioned series. Generally, at least three or four series are in production at any one time - which makes our unit one of the busiest around! About the Placement You'll work alongside the production clerks, and duties include opening and replying to viewer correspondence and helping out with basic research (under the guidance of a researcher or producer). Additionally, the BBC try to make sure that everyone doing work experience gets the opportunity to go along on a film shoot and attend an edit. On Watchdog Live transmission days there are opportunities to help out in the studio. While the BBC offer the opportunity to be involved in location filming, editing and live studio days, they strive to provide a real insight into what an entry level job might be like. Therefore applicants should prepare to actively assist with the general office and running duties that might be expected from a runner or similar junior employee. The BBC are able to take on around six work experience people per week, and offer placements from 2 - 4 weeks in length. Hours are generally 10am - 6pm, but some flexibility is desirable especially on live show days. Other Runner info is available at http://www.startintv.com/resources/whichtvjobforme.php?mode=view&idcheck=90

Qualities: What you need to be able to do the job

You'll have to demonstrate an interest in journalism and television production. As well as a clear interest in broadcasting, you should have an awareness of the BBC and its output. You must be able use lots of initiative and common sense and have the ability to learn quickly. Can you demonstrate the following attributes? You will be confident and professional when dealing with members of the public, programme contributors and BBC staff. You will be IT literate with good word processing skills and a familiarity with the Internet. You need to be highly motivated, work well in a team, have good interpersonal skills and be adaptable. You need to be creative and proactive when assisting with general office duties. (This basically means being assertive to get yourself noticed!) You need to come to the placement with a professional and responsible attitude and enjoy working in a high pressure environment. The office is open plan, and applicants should be positive about working in a culturally diverse environment. If you are sure that this is the placement you would like to apply for, you can complete the online application form at; www.bbc.co.uk/jobs/workexperience/wx51501.shtml check this link OR VIA www.bbc.co.uk/jobs and use job ref 51501.

Career path: How you start and where you can go with it.

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