Ah, networking! Fun, isn’t it?
Networking is an essential part of success, especially in the Film and TV industry. Here are 5 tips for successful networking and making the most of your connections:
- Be prepared. Before attending an industry event or networking opportunity, be sure to have a clear idea of what you’re looking to achieve and what you want to say. This can help you to stay focused and to make the most of your time. Bring business cards and have a brief “elevator pitch” ready to introduce yourself and your work.
- Be friendly and approachable. When networking, remember that people are more likely to want to connect with you if you’re friendly and approachable. Be genuine and authentic in your interactions, and try to put people at ease. Remember that networking is about building relationships, not just about making contacts, so focus on building connections and rapport rather than just handing out business cards.
- Listen and ask questions. One of the most important skills in networking is the ability to listen and to ask engaging open-ended questions. Instead of just talking about yourself and your work, try to listen to the other person and to ask them about their goals, experiences, and challenges. By showing genuine interest in the other person, you can build stronger connections and create opportunities for collaboration and support.
- Follow up and maintain your connections. Once you’ve made a connection, be sure to follow up and to maintain the relationship. This can be as simple as sending a brief email to thank the person for their time and to stay in touch. You can also connect with them on social media, or invite them to join a professional group or forum. By regularly following up and maintaining your connections, you can keep your network strong and active, and you can continue to build valuable relationships that can help you to advance your career in the film and TV industry.
- Be persistent but respectful. Networking can be challenging, and you may not always get the response you’re looking for. If someone doesn’t respond to your initial contact, don’t be discouraged. Try reaching out again in a few week’s time, or consider connecting with them on social media. Just be sure to be respectful and avoid being pushy or stalker-y! By being respectfully persistent you can continue to build your network and to make valuable connections along the way.
If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just need some guidance, get in touch, and we’ll help you navigate life’s challenges with clarity and confidence using our award-winning Equa Approach® from Jo and Liz at Fusion Film and TV.
Photo by Brooke Cagle on Unsplash