We spoke to young film maker Matt Cograve about his views on professionalism, and what he thinks being a YEUK Young Professional means.
So Matt, how would you define a Young Professional?
I see a Young Professional as someone aged 18-30 who has developed their skills to a professional level in relation to their desired profession, and is now applying that skill set in order to build experience. Whilst they may have some professional experience, I think the role of a Young Professional is to soak up knowledge from their experiences, demonstrating a willingness to learn from their environment, and then putting into action what they have learned to support their growth as an individual.
Do you see yourself as a Young Professional?
I do class myself as a Young Professional, as I’ve spent the past four years exploring my options, and gaining experience in a variety of fields, from music production to videography and photography. I started from scratch in a variety of different fields, and through a process of elimination, I have now found myself on a path that is more in line with my values. There are many transferrable skills and experiences I already have, but I’m still starting out and have a lot to learn down my newly found pathway.
What are the vital parts of being professional?
The most important element in being professional, to me, is to take responsibility for our actions. Being accountable for your actions requires being self-aware and understanding that through making decisions, we have an impact on others. In learning this, we can begin making more thoughtful decisions with consideration of those around us, allowing us to navigate the working world with realistic expectations.
Finally, Matt remarked on the issue of non-linear careers, and the fact many professionals will change career later in life.
The definition of a Young Professional is always changing. In the past, it was the case that in a lot of professions there was a ladder you could climb to become a Professional as you gained further skills and experience. These days however, we live in a world where thinking outside of the box has become ‘cool’ and as a result, we are finding people from all backgrounds shifting into new professions and ways of working, exploring the options available to them. It takes some people until their mid-thirties gain the maturity required and I think that age is no longer a confinement when describing a young professional, it’s more a recognition of someone taking active and responsible steps towards their professional career.
