By ERMW Team
Thurs November 2, 2023

When it comes to working on a movie set, customer service skills can be incredibly valuable. Although it may not seem like an obvious fit at first, the world of filmmaking relies heavily on effective communication, problem-solving, and handling diverse personalities – all of which are key components of customer service.

Some customer service skills that translate well into production include:

Effective Communication:

At the heart of customer service lies effective communication skills, which involve not only conveying information but also actively listening. On a movie set, clear and concise communication is crucial for coordinating the activities of the cast and crew. Customer service professionals can excel in this aspect by ensuring that everyone is on the same page, avoiding miscommunication, and promoting a collaborative environment.

Multi-tasking and Problem-Solving:

There is a LOT going on during production. You need to be able to prioritize requests, you will get lots of them. Similar to working in a busy restaurant, wait staff and kitchen staff get slammed with orders and customer requests. In both situations, you need to be able to multitask and communicate so you make sure everything gets handled or you get the support you need to manage demands. Like multitasking, being proactive, and solving a problem before it becomes a problem will make you a rising superstar.

Conflict Resolution:

Customer service professionals are no strangers to handling difficult situations and resolving conflicts. Similarly, a movie set can be a high-pressure environment where conflicts may arise between individuals or departments. With their ability to remain calm under pressure and find win-win solutions, customer service professionals can defuse tensions, foster positive relationships, and ensure a harmonious work atmosphere.

Adaptability and Flexibility:

Adaptability is a key trait found in successful customer service professionals. They are always ready to adjust their approach to meet the unique needs of each customer. This same flexibility can be invaluable on a movie set, where unexpected challenges are the norm. Customer service professionals can bring their adaptability to the set, seamlessly adjusting schedules, coordinating last-minute changes, and ensuring that filming progresses smoothly.

Attention to Detail:

Customer service professionals are known for their meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every customer's needs are met to the highest standard. This focus on detail can be easily translated to the movie industry, where set design, costumes, and continuity play crucial roles. By bringing their keen eye for detail to the movie set, customer service professionals can contribute to creating an immersive and realistic film experience.

Here are some job roles on a movie set where these customer service skills can translate exceptionally well:

Production Assistant: Production assistants carry out a wide range of tasks on set, and receive tons of requests. Strong problem-solving, multitasking, and communication skills are essential as they assist various departments and to support a smooth production everything runs smoothly. Understanding how to manage priorities and anticipate needs are essential skills to be successful in this first-step role in the film world. 

Production Coordinator: A production coordinator often acts as the main point of contact for various departments, ensuring smooth communication and coordination.

2nd Assistant Director: The 2nd AD is the 1st AD’s right hand and is responsible for ensuring that all the 1st AD’s instructions are carried out. The 2nd AD is often referred to as the “Backstage Manager” as they guarantee that everything is running smoothly in the background. The second is the main off-set contact with some of the other departments such as production, locations, and facilities. On each day of filming the second must prepare and draw up the next day's call sheet. Excellent organizational skills, communication, and problem-solving are much-needed skills for this role.

2nd 2nd Assistant Director: The 2nd 2nd AD (sometimes called 3rd AD outside the US) is primarily responsible for being the extension to the 1st AD on set. In general, a 2nd 2nd AD works with background actors, supervises production assistants, and sometimes wrangles talent. Customer service skills are needed to be successful in this role. If you want to really excel at this job, use excellent communication skills and anticipate what the 1st AD needs then delegate information to the Production Assistants.

Location Scout: A location scout is tasked with finding suitable filming locations and developing initial relationships with property owners – all of which need strong interpersonal skills.

Location Manager: Location managers are responsible for finding and securing locations to be used, obtaining all fire, police, and other governmental permits, and coordinating the logistics for the production to complete its work. They are also the public face of the production and are responsible for addressing issues that arise due to the production's impact on the community all of which require effective customer service, communication, and relationship-building skills.

Wardrobe Stylist: A wardrobe stylist collaborates with the production team, actors, and designers to create the desired look and feel. Customer service skills are critical in understanding and meeting the needs of each individual involved.

Casting Director: A casting director interacts with actors, agents, and filmmakers to find the perfect talent for a film. Excellent communication and the ability to understand the needs of both the production team and actors are essential.

Unit Publicist: A unit publicist handles communication between the film production and the media. Their customer service skills come into play when managing press inquiries, maintaining relationships, and promoting the project effectively.

The world of filmmaking can greatly benefit from the customer service skills of professionals. From coordinating schedules to managing relationships, there are a variety of job roles on a movie set where these skills can make a significant impact on sets.

Need more inspiration? Check out our articles A-Z Guide of Video Production Roles and I Want To Start A Career in Video Production. Now What?