Intent and Timing

For the producer or project manager…

If someone wants to hire you (assuming the project interests you), the first two questions you should immediately ask the person are:

-Why are you doing this? (How did this originate? What’s your goal? Etc.)

-When is your (rough) deadline to ship this?

If they don’t have good answers, you have two choices:

-You can spend time with them to help clarify their why and set a deadline. Then see if that aligns with your why for producing and your current schedule.

-You can pass.

But you’re certainly not ready to say yes. Let alone move on to the next two important questions. Which are:

-Who is this for?

-What is your budget?

Clarifying intent and establishing timelines are two of the most valuable skills you can bring to any project. Including your own.

If not, “it’s curtains for you.” And them.