Being a Staff Writer as a Step to Writing for Television

Get In Media reports:

"For television writers, the first step is an entry-level gig as a staff writer. This is a less glorious title than it appears, and does not receive a credit, but it is the probationary proving ground that trains emerging storytellers in the art of creating episodic television...The process will vary depending on the executive producer and show format; TV staff writers may be given a very detailed job description or left to figure out their role one step at a time. The bulk of the work takes place in the writers’ room...In these collaborative sessions, the staff writer should take advantage of the opportunity to provide input. Like improvisational actors, writers bounce ideas off one another with the aim of adding to and supporting brainstorming, rather than detracting from it; constructive criticism should be followed up with a pitch for a solution. If invited to do so, a staff writer may participate in first reads and rehearsals with the cast, to be on hand to take notes and make necessary changes to scenes that are not playing well. The eventual goal is to develop your own scripts...A degree is not required for work as a television writer, but a relevant education is invaluable...Writers should certainly have storytelling talent, but just as important is a realistic understanding of the industry, a skin thick enough to take constructive criticism, and the ability to effectively collaborate. Take it upon yourself to learn how to properly format a spec script using software like Final Draft and Movie Magic. Above all, remember that being able to produce creative content on demand is your job—there’s no mooning around waiting for the muse to alight. This is a professional environment, not an artists’ colony...Staff writers are not guaranteed the opportunity to write episodes and are not paid script fees, but they are given the coveted chance to participate in script meetings and have input on the final shooting script. Certainly, a rookie staff writer cannot afford to be picky when hunting for a break-in opportunity, but think long and hard about the type of television show you want to work on. Gravitate toward the genre and subjects that most inspire you, and the writing you deliver will be better for it. The best way to get a foot in the door is to write spec episodes of two or three shows you love—this might be your only chance to write an episode of Curb Your Enthusiasm, so go for it. You or (more likely) your agent will circulate the spec scripts among showrunners, and if you’ve got the right stuff, you’ll eventually land a staff position...Identify the workflow style and determine the vibe between the showrunner and the writers and the pecking order among the writers themselves; your job is to mesh with the team dynamic, not turn the show on its head. Embrace the executive producer’s vision—don’t fight it...Those who prove their talent, skill, and dependability to be invaluable may be offered advancement to the role of story editor or writer-producer, or receive offers to write on higher-profile TV shows."