Hi Everyone-
Ok, I've been getting a lot of questions lately about the whole process regarding portfolios and submissions, etc
First, I can't stress this enough- WDI is not in the position of accepting outside submissions for possible new ride ideas, resorts, etc. Again, the only major exception to this rule is the yearly Imagi-Nations University design competition.
If you're applying for consideration in a position where you may be asked to submit a portfolio, the following generally will be the steps involved. NOTE: DO NOT SUBMIT A PORTFOLIO TO WDI UNLESS ASKED AS THEY WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.
1.) If you're submitting materials to WDI, you should understand that whatever you submit won't be returned to you so they should be copies that you're willing to part with.
2.) Depending on the position, the folks in human resources may provide you with a specific portfolio submission form which you'll need to fill out.
3.) Enclose a copy of your resume with your portfolio
4.) Write a cover letter indicating the job position or area of interest in which you are applying.
5.) Identify all pieces of your portfolio with your name as well as the packaging for all pieces
6.) Portfolios generally should be under 25 pages max
7.) Video submissions should be limited to no longer than 4 minutes and have either slates or a table of contents that includes a breakdown of each piece on the tape, as well as your specific area of responsibility on what is shown.
As far as what to include in your portfolio, honestly- if you're submitting a portfolio by now you should know what to include (if you're not certain, just ask the folks in human resources for some sample guidelines).
Now, yes... it is true that some folks, like Tom Fitzgerald (WDI's Executive VP of creative development and theme park productions) literally walked into WDI HQ about 20 years ago with a very crude model of a winnie the pooh attraction he had put together and practically begged to see someone and got some time with Marty Sklar who was impressed by his determination and gave him a chance. But these days, I'm not sure you could pull that off.
Having an inside contact in the company may help you slightly, but it may still take a few tries before you have everything put together and polished to where things just fall in place and you land that job. If you want it enough, just be patient and persistent and everything will work out in the end. Creating the magic takes a lot of blood, sweat and tears in addition to some pixie dust now and then.