1. PRODUCER EVALUATION
First, assess the producer of the project.
- Does the producer have a portfolio of work that resonates with me?
- Does this producer share my vision?
- Does this producer share my values?
- Do I have previous experience working with this producer? If so, was that experience positive?
- How have others referred to their experience working with this producer?
- Does the producer have a plan for handling conflict?
- How well does the staff at the producers organization work together? (Is it obvious that the organization is disorganized? Is there internal conflict, gossiping etc.?
- Will I be encouraged to voice my opinion if I have suggestions or identify problems?
- Does the producer address problems head on or pretend that everything is fine?
- Is the producer more invested in me or my ability to deliver?
- Do I feel comfortable presenting new ideas?
- What is the process for beginning and ending the relationship?
- Is this a producer I would want to work with in 20 years?
Your focus in this evaluation is to ensure that the producer’s values and vision align with your own. In short: is this producer a part of the community of people doing work that you believe in and want to be a part of? Search the web and look for more resources if you feel that you want to give this further thought. Here is a site that I references when drafting these questions. Note: If this project provides an excellent opportunity for exposure but you do not wish to continue working with the producer in the future (and this may be the case depending on how long you have been in your field) then you want to consider how this project will position you to get to the projects and people who you want to be aligned with.