Harnessing the power of networking in the creative industries

During the visit, students met Sky staff and took part in advice sessions with Solent graduates now working across production management, camera operation and broadcast engineering. They gained valuable insights into what the global broadcaster looks for in future employees and how industry connections often provide the first step into highly competitive roles.

The importance of networking is clear. According to Bectu’s Big Survey 2025 of more than 5,500 creative workers, 75% of those in non‑performing roles secured their jobs through a friend or contact. This figure rises to 82% in film, TV drama and fashion - industries where Solent students frequently seek employment.

Senior Lecturer Kate O’ Driscoll, who has embedded structured networking opportunities into her teaching for the past decade, says, “Networking opportunities are vital to both students’ immediate success and long‑term career development.

“These experiences not only provide exposure to industry professionals but also give students access to insights, job leads and collaborative projects that help them graduate with real‑world experience on their CVs,” she adds.

For the last ten years, students on Solent’s TV and production courses have undertaken industry case studies as part of their final‑year module ‘Working in the Creative Industries.’ By conducting primary research and communicating directly with professionals, students build confidence, improve their communication skills and establish meaningful relationships that often support their progression into employment.

“By engaging with professionals early on, students are more likely to receive constructive feedback that helps them target skills gaps, ask the right questions and develop a clear understanding of possible career pathways,” Kate explains.

The results speak for themselves. Twelve graduates from Solent’s BA (Hons) Television Production degree are now working full‑time at Sky, with many crediting early networking as key to securing their roles.

Solent alumnus Stuart Lang - Production Manager at Sky, currently working on the Premier League - helps organise the student visits to the Sky studios. He graduated in 2018 with a degree in TV Production and has experienced first-hand the value of networking while studying. He says, “You can’t underestimate the importance of networking in our industry, especially in production. Meeting and knowing many people from many different roles in the industry gives you the tools to develop and helps you discover what path you want to take, which might not always be the linear one you think will happen as you leave uni!

“Helping show students how alumni have progressed after uni, in places like Sky, has been a real pleasure, it shows them the importance of networking and gives them an idea of what working life in the industry after university is like.

Final-year Television Production student, Daniella Smith, has been building strong industry connections since her first year, helping her secure her first role before graduating this summer. “Networking is crucial within this industry. If I hadn't pushed myself to gain contacts and as many shadowing/freelance opportunities, I wouldn't have obtained the level of knowledge I have now or be able to find various companies to apply for jobs and step into the industry,” she says.

“The course has helped me gain contacts and learn about external networking societies (Society of Motion Picture Television Engineers) which has enabled me to network outside of lesson hours. This has given me the opportunities to experience real world environments and to meet people in the industry who are willing to engage, support and encourage me to grow while studying,” she adds.

Solent continues to prioritise practice-led learning, industry engagement, and real‑world experiences that empower students with confidence, connections and a competitive edge for future career success.

You can find out more about TV, Film and Media at Solent here.