Hey Crossingz Community!,
I am a current Film & Television major at Boston University and can state with full confidence that if you do not network in this industry, it will be insanely difficult to "make it."
Did you know that the writers (Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach) of the blockbuster Barbie are married? And met through networking? Unlike in other industries, Hollywood and entertainment can oftentimes be solely built on networking relationships. Directors will often work with the same writers, actors, editors, cinematographers, sound designers and so on because they have cultivated strong networking relationships with them. Even more so, these networking connections usually turn into lifetime personal friendships. Just look at Amy Poehler and Tina Fey or Matt Damon and Ben Affleck.
In my experience at college - to get proper experience on-set, it is vital to make as many friends as possible. In my Understanding Film class, I began talking to the person sitting next to me every day and eventually, they offered me a chance to work as a PA on their short film project. As I was working as a PA, I met the director of the short film and began "networking" with her. She then offered me the chance to edit one of her other films she was making. While editing that film, I also talked with the cinematographer, writer, sound designer, and actors, allowing me to meet a ton of new connections. However - this all started with that ONE person sitting next to me in class.
Knowing this, how can we effectively cultivate these strong relationships in the entertainment industry?
1) It's More Than Just Networking
The most effective professional relationships are those that transcend the "networking stage." When you actually become friends with people, your opportunities open up and you also gain a nice friend out it. Looking at networking as creating friendships rather than just people to work with will take you very far in the industry. Additionally, these close relationships will result in stronger and more cohesive work. Be your authentic self and try to make as many friends as possible!
2) Don't Be Intimidated
It can often be scary to talk with people with much more experience than you. But, it is important to not put them on a pedestal and limit yourself. It is true that some people with more experience might not help you out. However, there are tons of people who would love to help you gain more experience and who might just change your life. No matter the experience-gap, it is important to network with everyone!
3) Attend Events
Go to all the conferences, screenings, mixers, film festivals, parties, etc. These are typically some of the easiest places to network because everyone is in the same industry and are wanting to network just as much as you. Additionally, it helps with exposure and getting your name out there.
4) Collaborate! Collaborate! Collaborate!
Working on projects together is important. These not only make relationships stronger but they also help you learn from each other. It is tempting to create your own film by yourself, but in reality, the entertainment industry is built on collaboration. No one film or show is made by just one individual person because that would be impossible. Therefore, collaborating as much as possible on your projects will prepare you for the rest of your career.
5) Personal Branding
A personal brand while networking can go quite far. By developing a distinct style or voice in your projects and sharing them with co-workers, you will entice people to get to know you better and work on your projects. Just saying the style of movies you like creating at a networking event might encourage one person to remember you or call you when they have an idea for you to work on. Additionally, it separates you from the crowd and helps you stand out in the over-saturated market.
6) Take Advantage Of Each Opportunity
Let's face it - being a PA sounds and sometimes is boring! It is so much more fun to be a cinematographer, director, or editor, but we all have to start somewhere. So, you might as well make the best of it and learn as much as possible. Being a PA can actually teach you vital skills and help you meet a ton of people (like my own experience) - so don't let it go to waste!
7) Be Kind
Despite the cutthroat tendencies of the industry, kindness goes a long way. There is a difference between naivety and friendliness. If you are kind but also smart, people will want to talk to you more and have a better chance of working with you later on.
8) Use Crossingz!
Social media sites such as Crossingz are a great starting place in the entertainment industry. If you are struggling to build your first networking relationships, these first couple of connections could be crucial to your success. Also using Crossingz for this is extremely easy and simple!! - So you might as well take advantage of this free opportunity.
Such an insightful post!