Here is some animation interview tips from Kevin Richards, who is currently working as a Lead Animator at the new Aardman Animation TV Series “Pop Paper City“.
As a production lead, Kevin spends a good deal of time interviewing junior animators and making hiring decisions.
In the guest blog below, Kevin offers his tips on how to succeed at a animation jobs interview – the second stage in the process of getting hired. If the company likes your demo reel, they will invite you to interview – below is Kevin’s advice on how to get it right.
Animation Interview Tips – Do’s and Don’ts
Once the company likes your demo reel, they will invite you to interview. You will be asked:
1. Your experience
Be honest – and get as much as you can through internships, obviously paid if possible.
2. Whether you can work In-House or Remote
Say that you are flexible if you can be.
3. Whether you can move town if necessary
Say yes if you possibly can – and find a cheap room to rent.
4. You Will be Asked Your Strengths and Weaknesses
Be honest about both – have your answers ready. in the case of the latter, tell them how you are aware of this and what steps you have taken to fix it.
5. What Paygrade You Should Expect
Research the going rate for a junior and make a reasonable request – and put in the caveat that you are flexible (within reason). If you go too low, alarm bells will ring in the recruiter saying if you under value yourself so much, that this is a red flag. If you go in asking for silly money when applying for your first job you will seem arrogant and this will raise alarm bells about hiring a possible prima donna who will come in and make a nuisance of himself.
6. Should You Do an Animation Test?
You will be asked whether you will be willing to do an animation test. Say yes to this – it is normal part of the hiring process.
Hope you enjoyed some animation interview tips from an industry expert
— Kevin Richards
