20 practices to achieve an Optimum Production Mindset

My recommendations for those of you in -- or going into -- film production as a CAREER (or even a stepping stone to something else).

just poke the orb please

When I meet someone outside the business, they often ask what a “Best Boy” or “Grip” does—never about “Production.” I get it; those initial job titles are kinda funny names. But I came up through production, and I find it strange that no one asks about the part that actually keeps everything moving.

Production handles the logistics and management—line producers, managers, coordinators, ADs, location teams, PAs. Some count the accountants. They're We’re the non-technical crew who make the entire operation run.

Production isn't just a job—it’s a personality type. You know it when you see it. Some traits are essential, others are more style than necessity—but the best production people stand out quickly. More than once, a producer has pointed to someone after a day or two and said, “They are so production”—or, just as often, “Definitely not.”

Whether you’re starting out or mentoring others, what qualities should define your approach? What mindset gets noticed, hired, and then hired again and again? What sort of person will you want on you team.

And here’s a hint: if you are going to an interview to get hired to work as a Producer’s Assistant or perhaps in the production office or as a PA, these types of things are what you want to make sure surfaces in the interview. This is what they are looking for.

I am sure some of you readers have more to add to this list. I hope we can make it a group effort. What did I miss?

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20 Best Practices For An Optimum Production Mindset

1. Stay calm in the storm. Keep a clear head. To me this is how good work gets done. Shit will hit the fan. People won’t be on their best behavior. Tempers may flare. They will break their word. Terms will change. But you don’t have to. Don’t let their bad behavior change your good ways. And mind you, this is about people pleasing. You don’t have to put on a happy face. But you do have to deal with it and still get things done. Hopefully, you know how to elevate things in the process. Practice equanimity always.

2. Instill trust and confidence that you will get it done. Do not let them harbor a doubt. You may forget nothing, but how will they know that about you. Writing things down in front of them, instills the ‘ol T&C. Give them the list at the EOD of what you got done. Maybe start the day off by giving the list of the things you are still working on (and make sure that changes daily).

3. Focus on actually getting things done. Advance it all always. Check the box and move on. This is what production does. Don’t let anything distract you. One plus one plus one and soon we are shooting and then we wrap and deliver. Boom, boom, boom. Keep the rhythm. And don’t let them see you miss a beat.