My question is for the managers out there: In an interview, what would "wow" a prospective employer? What would make you say "Yes! He IS the one! We must have him at any cost!" ?

I am a mere 17 years, but do have knowledge and extensive interest. I collect 35mm and show film on a Simplex in my back yard. I have little theatre experience, but I read everything on this site and I have memorized the "threading tips" (as this theater utilizes the Christie Package). I would project their film for free. But of course that is not reasonable, so what could get me in for the requisite minimum wage?

Many thanks for any input or advice-

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Honesty is most important. If you are enthused about film and exhibition, that will easily show through.

My other suggestion is not to feel that any position is beneath you. I'm a great example of that. When I applied at the theatre I currently work for I was 23, working full time rather comfortably in a job that was paying my schooling and I wanted to work part time at a theatre for fun, a little extra spending money, and to get free movies of course. I started at minimum wage in the vending stand. At nine months I recieved a meager raise and was moved into Box Office, but I was still smiling and happy to just be there. At my one year anniversary I was promoted to Assistant Manager, and once I finished up my degree 4 months after that I left my full time job because I was miserable there. Due to some great timing I was able to pick up full time hours at the theatre to tide me over until I could find a new job that I loved with my newly earned degree. The funny thing I found was that for every job I interviewed for, I couldn't find anything that I could see myself doing and still loving for many years to come. That was a year ago this week. I'm 26 now and house manager for the theatre I work for (although our circut doesn't have that title), and in the position where sometime in the next 6 months to a year I could potentially be offered my own theatre, and a salary position. I consider myself extremely lucky to have found a job that I love and at the same time is my passion. Had I not taken a humble approach, and sucked it up, accepting a minimum wage position where at 24 I was 6-8 years older than everyone else on the staff, I wouldn't be where I am at the moment.

There is no magic answer that will most likely get you where you want. Basicly do what it takes to get your foot in the door, be that making popcorn, cleaning up other people's trash, or whatever it may be. If you do a good job the management will see your passion, and doors will open for you.

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Richard- Why must you live in PA? I would have JUMPED at the chance to work in such a place! Apprenticeship in a single-screen... what more could I possibly ask for? The commute would be a bit taxing, though. I also have an open job offer in Albany...

Thanks you, one and all, and do continue-

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I love to smoke I smoke seventhousand packs a day and I'm never F*&ing quittin!-- Denis Leary