Deborah S. Patz - Author

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What Are Your Skills? People Are Already Telling You…

April 23, 2015 by Deb 2 Comments

orgdeskNeed to know your skills and strengths for your resume? Notice what people say around you.

I was working in the production office as a coordinator at the time. As usual, I was in the middle of several activities at the same time. I slid a note about credits into the blue file folder in the fan of coloured folders on the left side of my desk. I was talking with set on line two at the same time. The “set square” made of masking tape by the phone only had 3 more Post-it notes in it with messages and questions for set. I was happy to have wheels on my chair as I rolled a bit closer back to the phone side of my desk.

At this point, the Assistant to the Executive Producer came in. She stood beside my desk, not in front, so no doubt had something urgent to discuss, perhaps even confidential.

Set put me on hold, so I took the moment to find out. “Hi. How can I help you?” Was it another note for the screen credits? A question about the star’s contract? A restaurant recommendation? I was alert and ready.

“I just want to watch you organize.”

But not ready for that request.

“Oh.”

Her pen was poised above the steno pad in her hands. Her expression expectant. Was she really going to make observations and take notes?

“Okay,” I said. “Go ahead!”

I almost forgot I was still on the line with the set, until they said my name a second time. I turned back to my desk, peeled up the next Post-it and asked my next question.

I should really mention that I’m organized on my next resume…

Cheers and a good shoot to you,
Deb

P.S. This event also inspired me to write my first book “Surviving Production” – how to coordinate film and TV productions.

Filed Under: FILM, Management Tagged With: organization, pm101

Comments

  1. Barbara says

    April 23, 2015 at 1:09 pm

    As someone who worked as a PA when you were a coordinator, I remember how quick you were/are and also how organized and kind to a newbie…. Did I ever tell you how much I appreciated your help and advice? I carry that grateful feeling with every instance of touching film-making. Thank you for being you… and always helpful, enthusiastic and full of laughter and fun

  2. Deborah Patz says

    April 24, 2015 at 5:40 am

    Thanks for sharing such a kind memory!

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