The job: James Nussbaum, a producer, videographer and editor, is the founder and executive producer of Galileo Productions in Randolph.
He is a 20-year veteran of broadcast television and has worked with all three networks and cable franchises.
Responsibilities: The job is a balance of interpersonal and technical skills.
Nussbaum consults with clients every day.
He said it is critical to be an active listener with each client. It's important to listen to learn their needs.
Each person has a story to tell, and Nussbaum enhances the story by tapping into the clients' inner star and producing the content effectively on tape.
Technical skills include writing and editing videos and DVDs. Conceptualizing and scripting are essential skills for this work.
Education: Nussbaum earned a bachelor's degree in mass communications from Emerson College with special training on AVID editing systems.
"An undergraduate degree is helpful but no special training is required. Rather, the technical, interpersonal and conceptual skills are learned on the job," he said.
"The learning is constant, and each day bring new challenges. A great source for professional development comes from your boss and clients."
Licensing is not required.
Salary: Depends on years of experience. Compensation as an entrepreneurial proprietor is unlimited.
Best part of job: Nussbaum enjoys making a video of a client's life. The tape is eternal and can be viewed by generations to follow.
The job also allows for lifelong learning and uses curiosity and creativity.
Worst part of job: High stress level because you have to meet deadlines. It is not the type of work for someone who wants a 9-to-5 job. Work often must be done on evenings and weekends because of the client's availability.
Keys to success: Temperamentally, you must have a thick skin and not take things personally, Nussbaum said. It's important to leave your ego on the doorstep.
"Storytelling concisely, with an opening, a middle and an end, is critical to success," he added.
Words of wisdom: "You're only as good as your last story, shoot or research."
