Networking In The Entertainment Industry

The entertainment industry, like most industries, is a relationships business. It's important that you make a point - a real concerted effort - to meet people. No matter what facet of the industry you're in and no matter what level you're at, you are the President and CEO of your company. You're the one who is 100% responsible for your career. So when you're at an industry party, a screening, a Women in Film breakfast... any type of networking event, it's your job to put out your hand and say "Hi."

And it doesn’t mean just exchange business cards, meet people and get to know them and let them get to know you. Also, it's important that you make a point of getting to know the people that you want to know. Who is on your Target List? Who are the people that you want and need to meet? Take your target list and find out about those people. Do your research. Do your homework. Find out about them and their companies. What are ways to meet those people?

One way could be to go through the list of people you already know and "connect the dots." Is there anyone on your list who might know that person you're trying to get to? Could they make an introduction for you? Would they make a referral to them on your behalf? Another great technique is Brainstorming. Call the people you already know and do some brainstorming. What suggestions do they have that would help you in getting to meet the people you need and want to meet.

One idea is offer to moderate and produce a panel. It was fantastic. So if you are looking to meet casting directors for example, ask one of the organizations you belong to if you can produce and moderate a panel of casting directors. That way you are getting to meet them first hand.

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And since you will be the one making the invitations, you get to pick the casting directors that you specifically want to meet. There are a ton of fun ways to make connections. Find organizations that support what you do and join them. Go to the meetings. Get involved with those organizations. Get out there and make a point of going to screenings, events, parties, panels and festivals. And practice your networking skills. Don't just recite your resume... truly get to know people.

Choose events where you will meet the people that you want to meet. For example, if you are an actor, don't just go to actors' events. Go to events where you will meet producers, directors and writers. Be smart about this. If you're thinking, "What, stick out my hand? Say hello to people? Are you kidding?! I'm too nervous, shy and scared. I can't do that. What would I say?"

Well here's a tip. One excellent conversation opener is acknowledgment. As long as it is real authentic acknowledgment. If you meet that director you really admire and respect, you can begin with acknowledgment. It will help you relax because it takes the focus off of you. And it will put you both at ease. Give it a try.

Another suggestion when meeting people is to remember that it doesn't have to always be about your career. What are some things that you are truly interested in? What are your passions outside the industry? What are your favorite restaurants? What movies have you seen? What are your hobbies? Prepare stories and things to talk about that have nothing to do with your career.

Try creating real, authentic relationships with people and share about the things in life that you love... the things that you are excited and passionate about. We are usually so focused on our careers, that when we meet people in the industry we often come at them with an agenda and talk about our resume. We know it's a business, but it's your life. So be yourself. It's just one big giant sand box and we're here to play together and have fun. Stick out your hand and say, "Hi."

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