NETWORKING IN THE FILM INDUSTRY
You would have heard the saying before: In Hollywood-and in life, really-“It’s all about who you know.” This is true, in addition to training at a professional acting studio, it is very important to know how to network in the film industry. Your network is everything! Being surrounded by an uplifting, motivating network of people who believe in you and support you in so important to your success in the film industry.
The following is some very important tips for networking in the film industry:
Engage with industry professionals online
Social media has come a very long way in the world. It is a wonderful took for connecting with industry peers. So many casting director’s are on different forms of social media! Follow them, engage with them, and try to stay on the track of what’s happening around you.
Make friends in non-industry settings
You never know who you will meet in your day to day life. Neighbours, casual friends at the gym, the person walking their dog near yours at the park, you never know who could be a film industry professional. You may also meet someone through a mutual friend so it is always wise to ask. Also, by communicating this way, it feels more relaxed and less structured on a non-industry setting. It will feel more authentic to you too, so start making new friends!
Add value to people’s lives
While you focus out, you always want to look for ways to add value to people’s lives. Do you know of an actor who may fit a role that your casting director friend is looking for? Make an introduction. Is your agent looking for a bunch of other extras for a commercial? Send a blast on Facebook. Figure out creative ways to support the people in your network. That way, you will build a reputation as a stand out, reliable industry professional who makes things happen.
Follow up!
Once you meet and then connect with someone, be in touch on a regular basis- and not just when you need something. Be on the hunt for industry publications, and know when people in your network have released a film or received any award or accolade. It’s important to reach out and congratulate them on their wins!
Schedule coffee meeting, movie screening dates or just a general catch up for the sole purpose of connecting and getting to know people. You can even set up notifications on your calendar to remind you to reach out to certain individuals on a regular basis.
Schedule coffee meetings, hikes, movie screening dates, and karaoke nights out just for the sole purpose of connecting and getting to know people. You can even set up notifications on your calendar to remind you to reach out to certain individuals on a regular basis.