This is an entry-level job and one that you can almost guarantee every person in the television industry has done at some stage. It can be hard graft but it’s the best opportunity you will ever have to work with everyone, have a go at every role and learn valuable skills that will put you in good stead for your future career – so embrace it!

Job Roles

Office Runner

This role is the most nine-to-five job you can find in TV and is based in an office, either during pre-production or the edit of a production. It might not be glamourous but showing enthusiasm could land you a job on the next project or provide you with a stellar reference.

Duties include:

• Transcribing footage
• Collecting and distributing post
• Providing refreshments
• Tidying the office
• Hiring kit
• Managing petty cash
• Data entry
• Answering the phone
• General administration

Production Runner

Production runners are on set to assist the production staff and the duties of the role differs from job to job. Working in production is often seen as the most exciting runner job, but the hours can be long and you will be on your feet for most of the shift – so wear comfortable shoes! It is beneficial to own a UK drivers licence as many jobs involve driving contributors, crew or kit to different locations.

Duties include:

• Setting up kit
• Looking after contributors
• Buying props
• Logging footage
• Distribute call sheets
• Assisting crew such as helping change camera lenses, holding the boom mic, carrying bags and moving tripods out of shot
• Collecting lunches for the crew

Skills needed

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Organisation and administrative skills
• Work well in pressured environments
• Enthusiasm, a strong work ethic and a can-do attitude
• Proactive and able to use own initiative
• Able to work well in a team
• Excellent time management

Useful Links

How to be a great runner | Tips in 60 seconds

My First Day...as a TV runner

From Runner to Superstar - RTS Futures report

The benefits of social media when getting into TV

How to impress in your first TV job