What is a Netflix Tagger & How You Can Become One

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to get paid for binge-watching movies and series? It might sound like a dream job, right? Well, you’ll be pleased to know that this is actually possible. How does it work, you may ask? That’s exactly what we’re going to explore in this article.

The meaning isn’t obvious just from the name. A Netflix tagger is someone who watches movies and series for Netflix. The common industry term for this job is “content analyst,” since these people analyze entertainment content and help make Netflix’s recommendations more accurate for its viewers.

The main part of their job is to sort the content they watch into different categories—and even sub-categories—and to give each item proper tags and ratings. This helps Netflix’s algorithms suggest the most relevant shows and movies to users based on what they like to watch. This process is essential for Netflix to keep audiences engaged and to continue generating revenue.

Here’s a simple example: if you start watching comedy movies like Grown Ups or Murder Mystery, Netflix’s system will notice you enjoy comedic content. It will then recommend more comedy movies, especially those starring Adam Sandler, who leads in both films mentioned above.

This seems straightforward, but in reality, the algorithm is much more sophisticated. Hardly anyone watches only one genre all the time. Tags can include basic genres, but they may also highlight details like character personalities, plot twists, themes, and even specific emotions shown in the story.

Skills Required to Become a Netflix Tagger

This does sound like a dream job, but are there any skills required? Just like any other job, being a Netflix tagger comes with its own specific skill set. Through our research, we’ve identified some key abilities needed for this role:

1. Love Watching Content: The most important thing you need is a genuine interest in watching movies and series. This may sound easy, but it can be difficult if you have to watch genres you don’t normally enjoy.
2. Solid Research Skills: Having some background knowledge of the content is helpful. This could mean knowing about the original novel, play, or story that a movie or series is based on.
3. Broad Entertainment Knowledge: Being familiar with a wide range of movies and series makes it easier to draw comparisons and properly tag new content.
4. Attention to Detail: A good Netflix tagger pays close attention to details, noticing subtle elements so they can apply tags that truly reflect what the content is about.
5. Collaboration and Communication: Often, you’ll work alongside other taggers, so being able to communicate clearly and work well in a team is important.
6. Keen Observation: You should be able to spot minor details in a show, such as any cultural or religious sensitivities, and report them accordingly.
7. Staying Up to Date: Keep up with new films and series being released, and stay aware of the latest social media trends related to entertainment.
8. Cultural Awareness: Since Netflix offers content from around the world, understanding different cultures helps make sure your tags are respectful and appropriate. This helps users everywhere find content that suits them.

You do not need a formal degree to become a Netflix tagger. That said, a degree in media or a related field might give you an edge. Usually, you need about 5 years of experience in a media-related job. Netflix also provides on-the-job training to help you get up to speed with their requirements.

How To Become a Netflix Tagger?

So, how do you apply for this unique job? You’ll need to regularly check the Netflix Jobs website—ideally at least twice a week—to watch for new job openings. These jobs attract a lot of applicants, so keep your résumé updated and ready to submit quickly.

Please note that these jobs are only posted on the official Netflix website, not on any social media pages, and you should be wary of third-party accounts claiming otherwise.

After you apply, there’s a shortlisting process. If you’re shortlisted, you’ll be informed and asked to complete a series of tests and assessments to show your analytical skills. Next, you’ll go through a virtual interview with a panel. If you pass all these steps, you’ll be offered the position and onboarded. Because this job is mostly remote, most of these procedures happen online.

Why Even Become a Netflix Tagger?

There are many benefits to becoming a Netflix tagger. Since it’s a remote job, you can work from home and often choose your own hours. As a side hustle, it pays quite well—about $30,000/year. If you’re a student or recent graduate, this could even be your main source of income.

Because this is an entry-level position, you also have opportunities to advance within the company as you gain experience and show your abilities.

Working for Netflix can really enhance your résumé and give you an advantage if you want to stay in the entertainment industry. On top of that, you’ll have the chance to network and make valuable connections behind the scenes.

If you love movies and TV shows, it’s also rewarding to help organize content and improve recommendations for millions of viewers.

Challenges of Becoming a Netflix Tagger

Being a Netflix tagger might sound amazing, but it does come with challenges. There’s a huge amount of content to watch, often across many genres, including ones you might not personally enjoy.

This can become mentally exhausting and requires long periods of focus and impartiality. It’s also crucial to categorize content accurately, as users depend on this system. As entertainment evolves, taggers have to keep updating their tagging skills to stay relevant in a constantly changing landscape.

There are times when you need to make tough judgment calls about how to tag a show or movie. This responsibility means you need a good understanding of the content and strong decision-making skills.