Proficiency in creative writing is becoming a tool for gaining higher positions in the corporate sector. Generally the chief executives of multi-national companies, and some of the local companies of big size who have made their systems of governance resemble multi-nationals, think that a candidate equipped with techniques of creative writing would make an effective communicator.
Their assumption is based upon the fact that a creative writer cannot gain mastery over his skills without acquiring sufficient knowledge of words and their uses. The creative writer is disciplined in his thought and articulates in his expression of ideas that matters business. His economy of words and their selection, and prioritization of issues in order of merit makes a message clear.
A candidate for a job of sales and marketing in a firm, should now be well versed with the techniques of communication. A MBA degree with additional qualification in creative writing proves bonus for a job seeker. This combination of qualification and experience is becoming a threat for those who, despite holding professional educational qualification and relevant experience for a particular job, do not have experience in the art of communication. This art comes from a flair for creative writing. Candidates with professional qualifications are now compelled to write their curriculum vitae with a lot of emphasis on creative ability. Additional qualification or experience in the art of communication is becoming requirement of a progressive company executive.
Creative writing and other forms of fine arts go hand in hand with each other and if one form of art complements an activity, the other supplements for deficiencies that are likely to occur.
The general trend in the educated people is still in favour of a 9-5 job in a multi-national or a known national company, in a bank or in any IT company.
The job market for creative writers and creative fine arts students is opening and expanding fast. With the introduction of theatre and new TV channels, many new writers with higher qualifications such as a degree in the medical sciences, arts and literature and engineering have now started deserting 9-5 jobs and showing their willingness towards such art forms that are commercially lucrative. There are those who have degrees from professional institutions, such as Institute of Business Administration, have opted for creative work; may be writing or acting. Many have done into TV play productions. Even set designing has attracted some of the young girls. There are those who have opened their boutiques as well.
Syed Makhdoom Riaz of Telefunco Media Communications is of the opinion that the increasing trend of educated and trained young men and women joining performing art sector is a good omen. He thinks it would bring a noticeable change in theatre and TV plays. If nothing else takes place, at least contents of script would improve.
Riaz, busy with a serial "Nizam Dhakka" for ARY said that costume plays are slowly making their ways into theatre and TV plays. This change, though expensive and calls for a lot of home work on the theme, language, content, customs and locale to make the presentation attractive, there is realization that only educated creative writers should be allowed to handle such works.
The story of "Nizam Dhakka" revolves around a dim-witted king, his kindhearted wife and his sly courtiers. The mix of this kind of character is enough to tell the entire story of the serial, but the kind of humour it is likely to create, will keep viewers attracted towards this play.
Riaz said that creative writers were in demand and were likely to dictate their terms before taking up a project. He said he had taken help from such people.
Riaz, himself a playwright and experienced man of the stage and theatre, is expected to complete his work on "Nizam Dhakka" by the end of next month. The play will go on air through one of the channels of ARY Digital. The cast of this play includes among others Darain, Sidra Khan, Ghulab Chandio, Zeba Shahnaz, Aftab Alam, Farooq Memon, Sumera Hussain and Tahir