No holds barred, Alison really pumped us with nearly 2 hours of TV industry insider knowledge. From day one in her first job Alison learnt a important lesson – to be one step ahead of the game, which influenced her not only on a daily basics on how she operated in the workplace but also how she managed her career.
Networking, was the key in her career progression, something that hasn’t until recently really hit home personally for me! In TV networking is crucial at all levels.
When you are making a TV program who are the audience?
Who are you selling to? Viewers..Broadcasters Commissioner..Advertisers?
All three of these are valid as your audience.
How TV has changed. It’s not just about making the show for TV broadcasters etc. A lot of money can be generated through the value of rights! By just having a great idea you can sell it, license it and receive royalties.
Interestingly, this came about from government policy change in 2005. It allowed the TV production companies to hold onto the rights of the program and elements of it. This changed the working practices of TV companies and opportunities to exploit their brands and ideas on a local and global platform, a part of the information economy.
A Cambridge graduate with a MBA, Alison has worked as a production manager to being involved in the strategy of the ‘bigger picture’ of TV. Now, a consultant for TV companies, Alison has worked for companies like Fremantle Media and Hotbed Media.
I wish to thank Alison on behalf of everyone in taking time out of her busy life to talk to us.