Subject Guides: Play Your Way Into Production's Educational Resource Package: Changing the Game (a.k.a. Leadership)

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Educational Resource Package

Competency: Changing the Game (a.k.a. Leadership) Duration: 50 minutes approx.

MODULE OVERVIEW

Being a game changer goes beyond holding a position of authority; you do not have to be the CEO of a company or the director of a production to demonstrate or showcase leadership. Leading is about gaining the trust and respect of others and inspiring them to work together towards a shared goal. Trailblazers often possess certain qualities that enable them to lead effectively, such as empathy, effective communication, decision-making, integrity, delegation, creativity, resilience, and motivation. Recapping from the scenarios that we have explored in the game, here are some examples of what leadership can look like.

In scenario 3, Long hours and hungry, Alex (Grip Assistant Trainee) has the opportunity of modelling self-care to foster a healthier environment amongst colleagues by deciding what is best for them and getting some food to recharge their energy. This can be particularly daunting when one is at an entry level position as one might want to show you are open to going above and beyond for the team by powering through and overlooking your own needs. However, this way of thinking is rooted in dysfunctional, oppressive hierarchical structures that perpetuate disparity within the workplace. Stepping up to look after your own wellbeing can be incredibly empowering for yourself and the people around you.

Have you heard the saying “the squeaky wheel, gets the grease”? In scenario 5, Working the Photocopier, the tech problem could go unnoticed indefinitely, causing a snowball of delays for the team, unless someone voices the issue in order to get it solved. Based on their unfortunate experience, Hazar (Sound Assistant Trainee) might want to give Erica (if they consider it beneficial) a “heads up” that the photocopier has a glitch so that the next person to use it will not have the same issue. Looking at the bigger picture makes it easier to anticipate and prevent potential challenges.

Jo (Production Assistant) illustrates the value of modelling an attitude of service, self-trust, and trust in others in Scenario 4, Making connections. By stepping up and guiding the crew so things run smoothly, Jo can foster a harmonious environment where colleagues feel confident in their roles whilst backed up by the rest of the team to sort things through.

Can you think of other ways that our characters showcased or could potentially reveal their leadership skills?

LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of this module, participants will have developed a well-rounded understanding of leadership theories and practical skills essential for success in their chosen roles within the Screen Industries. They will be equipped with the knowledge and tools to emerge as confident and capable leaders in the dynamic world of film and television production, whether as directors, producers, cinematographers, or in other key roles. They will have honed their ability to navigate complex situations, resolve conflicts, communicate effectively, and adapt to the ever-changing landscape of the screen industries through engaging case studies and interactive tasks. This module fosters not only leadership competence but also the adaptability and resilience needed to excel in an industry that continually demands innovation and creative problem-solving.

OUTLINE

Section 1: Understanding leadership in the Screen Industries (10 min)

Leadership is the process of guiding and influencing your team to achieve a common goal. It involves providing direction, inspiration, and motivation to others, fostering a positive and productive work environment, and making critical decisions to steer the group towards success. In the Screen Industries this involves guiding creative teams to bring a vision to life. This leadership is often multifaceted, encompassing both creative and logistical aspects.

Activity: Watch the following clip featuring director, producer and screenwriter Shonda Rhimes (Grey’s Anatomy, How to Get Away With Murder, Bridgerton).

Shonda Rhimes On Raising The Next Generation Of Showrunners | TIME Magazine

Section 2: Leadership styles and their application (15 minutes)

Leadership styles in the Screen Industries vary from autocratic, where decisions are authoritative, to transformational, which inspire creativity and innovation. Professionals in the screen industries often blend leadership styles based on the unique demands of each project and the strengths of their team members. Effective leadership in this field requires adaptability, creativity, and a deep understanding of the collaborative nature of film and television production. Some examples are:

Collaborative Leadership: Encourages open communication, ideas sharing, and collaboration among team members. This style is often used in creative brainstorming sessions; collaborative leadership fosters an environment where everyone's input is valued, leading to innovative ideas and solutions.

Transformational Leadership: Inspires and motivates the team by articulating a compelling vision and encouraging creativity and innovation. Transformational leaders in the screen industries inspire teams to reach new creative heights, encouraging risk-taking and pushing boundaries in storytelling.

Steward Leadership: Focuses on serving and supporting the needs of the team, emphasising empathy and humility. This style is effective in fostering a positive and supportive environment, especially during challenging or high-stress production phases.

Decisive Leadership: Centres decision-making in the leader, providing well-defined ideas and guidance. During times of crisis or when a critical and quick decision is needed, it helps ensure a clear and focused direction for the team.

Democratic Leadership: Involves team members in decision-making, seeking input and fostering a sense of shared responsibility. This is often used in pre-production planning, democratic leadership allows the team to contribute ideas and perspectives, enhancing collaboration.

Adaptive Leadership: Adjusts leadership style based on the project's needs, team dynamics, and external factors. In the ever-changing landscape of the Screen Industries, adaptive leadership is crucial for navigating diverse projects, teams, and challenges.

Hands-Off Leadership: Also known as the Laissez-Faire Leadership style, it allows team members a high degree of autonomy and freedom to make decisions. It is particularly effective when working with experienced and self-motivated professionals, as it allows for creative independence.

Transactional Leadership: Focuses on exchanging rewards for performance and adherence to established rules. Transactional leadership may be used during specific phases of production where clear guidelines and efficiency are crucial.

Strategic Leadership: Focuses on long-term planning, setting strategic goals, and aligning the team with a broader vision. This style is critical in shaping the overall direction of a film or television project, considering market trends, audience preferences, and industry dynamics.

Activity: Draw a mind map about your interests and strengths and what style of leadership you think you demonstrate already and/or would like to develop. Based on this, reflect on roles that you would want to explore, is it directing, producing, casting? Is it supervising the sound design or leading the art department?

CALL TO ACTION! (15 minutes)

Developing your leadership style

Write down the name of industry professionals that you are familiar with who have changed the game in the Screen Industries and think about the following:

How did you know about them?
What drew you to their work?
Write five attributes that you think make them a leader?
Which of these qualities can you see in yourself?
Which of their qualities do you not feel confident about (yet) but would like to develop?
Write a list of five steps to start developing these, i.e., seek mentorship with a certain organisation, read a book or listen to an audiobook by someone you admire, etc.

EXTERNAL RESOURCES

ScreenCraft Works’ Cross-Border Mentoring Scheme is designed to support underrepresented professionals in film and tv, matching them with international mentors. Apply to be a mentee!

Apply for a free Leadership and management essentials for high-end television freelancers training workshop funded by ScreenSkills (you’ll need to create a ScreenSkills account first if you haven’t done so already.

Fully Focused is a youth-driven production company supporting the next generation of filmmakers and underrepresented talent. You can sign up to their mailing list and receive updates about free training sessions and virtual masterclasses designed for new industry professionals.