The responses providing employment advice for entry level applicants in the
arts all serve to support the larger and more important issue of a lack of
career paths in the arts and culture industry and the need for the field to
hire and promote from within.  

While certifications and degrees increase a candidate's marketability, they
do not, unfortunately, guarantee that a candidate will obtain a job in his
or her field; especially one that provides opportunities to use and learn
skills in a dynamic environment with proper compensation.

Candidates need to look at jobs and their careers in a new way.

In the museum world of today, a job is not an opportunity for an individual
to gain experience and skills from an employer so s/he can become more
marketable for better jobs at other organizations in the future. Rather, a
job encompasses the activities, skills and knowledge provided by an
individual to an employer that meets the needs and objectives for an
organization for which monetary compensation is awarded. 

Seen this way, only apply to those jobs for which you are qualified, have
the appropriate skills for and are interested in. Employers and recruiters
can easily detect applications that are focused and relevant from those that
are sent without purposeful intent and regard for stated qualifications. To
best position yourself, learn what your skill set is and how to articulate
it to others in cover letters, resumes and interviews through compelling,
relevant accomplishments.    

In addition to searching Museum-L's archives, sign up for our monthly Art
Career newsletter which provides helpful advice and tools for finding a job
and developing your career.  More, while advice is helpful and abound, there
is no substitute for meeting with a Career Coach who is knowledgeable about
museums and the arts and culture industry and who can help you develop
strategies specifically to meet your goals. 

Jenifer Simon, M.A.
Training & Careers Associate
Thomas & Associates, Inc.
www.artstaffing.com 
6 East 39th Street, Suite 1200
New York, NY 10016
212.779.7059
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