The effect of networking on the career decision self-efficacy of young film and television professionals

Abstract

A review of the literature regarding contacts in the film and television (film/TV) industry revealed that the strength of one’s network is important for young film/TV professionals in their careers. In addition, career decision self-efficacy (CDSE) research displayed that social support impacted career confidence. However, no work gauged whether number of contacts in the film/TV industry had a statistically significant relationship with overall CDSE. In turn, this study addressed this issue by surveying 267 young film/TV professionals. The Career Decision Self-Efficacy Scale-Short Form (CDSES-SF) quantified overall CDSE, while an additional question measured number of contacts in the film/TV industry. The findings indicated a statistically significant, positive correlation between number of contacts in the film/TV industry and overall CDSE. The significance of this work is that the film/TV industry’s CDSE has been measured for the first time, and the CDSES-SF has been shown to be a useful instrument for young professionals.

Keywords:

• Career decision self-efficacy
• networking in film and television
• young film/TV professionals
• contacts
• social support
• career confidence

Acknowledgment

The authors thank Kioh Kim, John Murray, and Shalanda Stanley for their advice and guidance.

Disclosure statement

In accordance with Taylor & Francis policy and my ethical obligation as a researcher, I (Brandon Jaoquim Robert Loureiro) am reporting that I am currently a member of the group Awesome Assistants, which is studied in this work and may be affected by the research reported in the enclosed paper. I have disclosed those interests fully to Taylor & Francis, and I have in place an approved plan for managing any potential conflicts arising from this involvement.

Data availability statement

The data that support the findings of this study are openly available in Figshare at https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.16713196.

Additional information

Funding

This work was not supported by any funding agencies.

Notes on contributors

Brandon Jaoquim Robert Loureiro

Brandon Jaoquim Robert Loureiro has received a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from the University of Southern California, a Master of Business Administration from the University of Arizona, and a Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Louisiana Monroe. Outside of academia, Brandon has worked in feature film development at Lionsgate, Paramount Pictures, and Jonah Hill’s production company Strong Baby Productions.

Myra Lovett

Myra Lovett is the Director for the School of Education at the University of Louisiana Monroe. She holds degrees in Education, Educational Psychology, and a doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction. She has served as a certified K-12 teacher and leader prior to entering higher education teacher preparation. Her current role as director includes leading both undergraduate and graduate programs for teacher preparation and advancement.