Step into the world of Lydia, head of business and talent at NERD Productions, and get a glimpse of the thrill and excitement of the production industry. Getting briefs, catching up with producers & creatives on a daily, nurturing talent and much more. Lydia's passion for the industry started at the age of 19 and it never stopped!
NERD managed to steal some time from her busy schedule to pick her brain on how she navigates the industry where personal connections are paramount. NERD also snatched a few bits of advice for those who are perhaps looking to embark on a similar career journey.
Lydia> It all started when I was 19 years old and worked as a receptionist at a production company in London. From then on I knew it was an industry I wanted to get involved in.
Lydia> People say I have always had 'the gift of the gob' and connecting people has always been something I felt I was good at and still enjoy doing immensely. I don't like giving up, so pursuing the right brief for the right director as well as finding that perfect match for the client is crucial.
I like to laugh and always say that I can hopefully make people laugh too, it always breaks the tension. Listening to clients’ wants and needs is another quality that I use in my professional life.
Being spontaneous and picking up that phone to absolutely anyone has always been something that has never phased me and that has led to making great connections over the years.
Lydia> Go with it, go slow and carefully, and don't be afraid to push the boundaries. More than that, don't give up at the first or last hurdle, push on through and do it with a smile on your face. Patience and persistence go a long way.
Lydia> Leaving the ego at the door can be extremely beneficial for all involved. Working as a team can gain much better results than thinking only about your own creative needs and without collaboration. Working together can definitely be much more productive and powerful!
Lydia> Honesty, communication, collaboration trust and ambition.
Lydia> Having disagreements is ok. We encourage talent at NERD to always come forward and tell us their real thoughts. It can be healthy and can lead to more brainstorming and result in an even better thought/idea. However, being polite and communicative in a calm and mature manner will always have better results.
Lydia> Communicating in the right way. If there is an issue - discuss it! Don't leave it or that can make things worse, reassurance is always important but at the same time be honest and not exceed expectations.
Lydia> To be honest, I am proud of them all! Pain is gain and sometimes you have to push on through the hurdles to get to the other side. Sometimes production, agency or clients can be on different pages but working together, and finding that balance can be really rewarding and have a brilliant result. When you work on something that doesn't necessarily start off super creatively but by the end, with everyone involved, the end piece will inevitably bring a smile to everyone’s face!