What I Done Did

To describe what it is I do, I often have to resort to a lengthy explanation and pop culture references. I can't just say, 'I am the Video Operations Manager for Company X' and expect a wink of understanding and a shift in the conversation. I have to add, 'I manage a team of editors and analysts, and we take pre-produced or un-cut video, perform a digital transfer, edit and digitally master the video, and then create custom or as-is products for distribution within our network of Online and Mobile Retail Outlets'; even then, the response is the same blank stare and a smile that's searching for a reply.
When I resort to, 'we sell music videos and TV shows on iTunes, as well as monetise the videos with advertising on sites like YouTube', then the real smiles and nods of seeing the light come on...and my mission is complete. One more person knows what I do, or did...And there was much rejoicing.

For those whom know not the joys of iTunes and YouTube, I simply have to wing it, and hope for the best. I say, 'we acquire the rights to digitally sell and advertise against music videos, classic television (Gumby, My Favorite Martian, I Spy), and even a magic series by Criss Angel...We do not have physical distribution rights; there are no DVDs made. It's all done digitally--straight to your phone, computer, or other portable electronic device'.
And I always add, 'it's an interesting space to be in, because part of the experience is learning how to monetise all these videos. Because, in truth, not even "the big names" (NBC, MTV, CBS) are making the returns they'd hoped for...Not yet, anyway'.

To describe what it is I do, it is probably best if I say, 'I'm an amusement park technician; I run the roller coaster'. I'll say, 'yeah, I just pull the crank and listen to the screams. It's terribly satisfying'.

And that will be that.