How to Train a Creative: Step-by-Step Guide for Video Media Roles
Learn how to train young artists in video media production. This guide covers technical skill transfer, creative direction, and sharing essential tribal knowledge.
Best quote from How to Train a Creative: Step-by-Step Guide for Video Media Roles
You have to move from being the 'star player' to being the 'coach'—a coach doesn't play the game, they design the plays. It’s about teaching them how to think, not just what to do; if you give them the compass, they can navigate the creative waters themselves.
This audio lesson was created by a BeFreed community member
How to train someone in a creative skill. I have a young artist coming on board, he’s interested in the video media position I currently do. But it is a very difficult job, taking deep knowledge of the messaging of the company, technical skills in several apps, tribal knowledge of what is a good message, decades of trial tk make stuff pop, erythema of cutting. Step by step. How do I set off to train this guy.
Frequently Asked Questions
To begin training a creative in a video media role, start by breaking down the complex workflow into manageable phases. Focus first on technical skill transfer regarding the specific apps and tools used in your production pipeline. Once the foundational technical skills are established, you can gradually introduce deeper concepts like the company's unique messaging and the specific rhythm of cutting that makes your content stand out. This step-by-step approach prevents burnout while building a solid professional foundation.
Transferring tribal knowledge requires consistent mentoring and exposure to the decision-making process. Share the 'why' behind your creative direction by reviewing past projects and explaining why certain messages worked while others failed. Since this knowledge is often built over decades of trial and error, involve the trainee in high-level discussions early on. This helps them understand the nuances of the brand's voice and the specific aesthetic standards required for the video media position.
Onboarding creatives effectively involves balancing technical instruction with creative inspiration. Your plan should include a comprehensive overview of the video editing workflow, hands-on practice with core software, and a deep dive into the company’s messaging strategy. Because video production is a difficult job requiring both technical precision and artistic intuition, the onboarding process should prioritize clear communication and provide a safe space for the young artist to experiment and receive constructive feedback.
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From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco
"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."
"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."
"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."
"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."
"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."
"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."
"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."
"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."
"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"
"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."
"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."
"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"
"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."
"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."
"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."
"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."
"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."
"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."
"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."
"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."
"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"
"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."
"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."
"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"
"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."
"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."
"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."
"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."
"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."
"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."
"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."
"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."
"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"
"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."
"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."
"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"
