Coworking breeds creativity we say, but it helps if you co-work with creatives! Whistle Video are just that and we are proud to say Joe Skillington is our longest standing coworker here are Desk.Space Mowbray Street. Having been with us pre, during and post lockdown it’s an absolute delight to call him one of our own.

The company’s projects speak for themselves (check out The Bears of Sheffield below!). Here’s the story behind it all, as told by Joe.

How did it all begin?

Before Whistle Video I studied TV and Film design at University then set up a production company with a Uni mate. The financial crisis hit unfortunately and the company folded, but I learnt a lot along the way and set up again on my own a couple of years later. 12 years later here we are with some amazing projects under our belt and no plans to put our feet up yet.

What did you know about the industry before you started?

Not a lot! I have gained so much more by working with a vast mix of businesses than I believe you can by simply reading up on a subject. I got stuck straight in and picked things up along the way, I always think it’s better to start and learn as you go.

What made you think the time was now?

I was young then (ha!) and you can afford to make mistakes when you are young. There are fewer consequences of starting up a business when you’re younger, so the earlier the better was my motto.

Who has helped you?

Other video production companies and freelancers. The tips and advice I have learnt from other companies has been incredible. Also, a big shout out to my late grandad who always believed I could make a go of it and invested a small chunk of money to buy the first pieces of video equipment. 

What are the challenges?

When I first started out getting clients and having constant cash flow were the major challenges. I’ve been lucky enough to work with some great clients though, and this is now less of a problem. Today’s challenges are balancing self-employed life with family life.

I work all over the country and and no week is the same, so it’s nice to have a constant base at Desk.Space. It’s also really nice to have a chat over a cuppa with fellow co-workers in the office. 

What’s the latest project?

Watch this space as I will be releasing a Kids Music YouTube Channel soon starring myself! Very nervous about it but if you don’t try you don’t know.

The thing I love most about what I do is the variety. I don’t like things to be constantly the same as I get bored, so working on a mix of projects simultaneously is really satisfying. (A bit like the mix in a coworking office!)

I don’t have a grand plan as such, I’ve never had one to be honest. As long as I continue to enjoy what I’m doing, that’s the main thing. I don’t ever want to wake up and dread going to work so I guess the plan is to make sure that never happens.

Any tips for anyone in or starting out in business?

Start as early as you can and make mistakes as fast as you can. You will always make mistakes but you will definitely learn from them. Also, be honest with your clients at all times. If you are running behind schedule or are going to miss a deadline then let them know, they will appreciate the honesty and can also plan accordingly.

How can people contact you?

Website: www.whistlevideo.com

YouTube: WhistleVideo

LinkedIn: joeskillington

We’ve got to add a special mention must be made to Mr Globe, don’t forget to find him this Christmas on YouTube!