later, I got a call about another show, called Birds of Prey. It's about three
women: one who has psychic powers, one who has physical powers, and
one who has all the brain
power. It was like my premo-
nition." Giuliano called the
studio and made arrangements
to switch projects. After Birds
of Prey was picked up, he
remained on as producer of
the series.
Job Overview
There are different types of producers, and responsibilities may vary
from project to project. The producer oversees a project from beginning to
end and may be involved in any or all of the following responsibilities:
finding, acquiring, and developing material; securing financing; hiring
the director, talent, and key crew members; supervising the project
through postproduction and release.
Special Skills
In addition to knowledge of filmmaking and contacts within the
industry, a producer must have the ability to work successfully with a
variety of personalities, be highly organized, and be able to motivate
others.
Advice for Someone Seeking This Job
Start out as a PA, secretary, or assistant for a production company or
producer to learn the business and make contacts. In looking for a job,
"Be persistent," suggests producer Anne Grace. Don't just send in a
resume and expect someone to call you--call them. "You have to keep
calling. That's the one thing that impresses me. Whenever I hire some-
body, I'm going to hire the person that has called for the last six months.
You have to have a certain amount of eagerness to be a PA. If you're
sincere and you can convey to people that you are serious, someone will
give you a chance."
JOB TITLE: PRODUCER--TELEVISION
Peter Giuliano
attributes his success
to "being able to catch
your mistakes before
anybody else does."
CAREER TIPS
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