There is no debate that the film industry primarily runs on freelance work. Actors, filmmakers, directors, and everyone else do not have stable jobs, unlike many other industries.
If you're an aspiring actor or a filmmaker, the film industry can be very tough to break but it does not mean it is impossible. All you need is that little chance or opportunity, and the best way to get it is through networking.
To learn more about film industry networking and how you can use it to your advantage, check out the guide below.
Why Networking is Important in the Film Industry
The film industry is an art in itself. For you to gain access to roles or even a job, you will need to gain favors from people who can further your career.
You can always work your way up from the bottom to the top, but if you want to do it fast, you will need to learn the art of networking.
Networking helps you build relationships with certain people, especially in freelance work like the ones in the film industry.
Having these networks will allow you to stay employed for many years to come.
Attending Events to Boost Your Networking Potential
One of the best ways to start networking is to attend film-related events.
Most of the successful networkers often attend these events so they can be around people who can help them break through the film industry.
Many actors and actresses today have been discovered through these events.
You can check different entertainment sites for upcoming events. You can also sign up for movie screenings or attend parties that many cast or crew like to attend.
Connections are Valuable
Rather than collecting a lot of business cards, create real connections with the people that matter the most or even those that are adjacent to such people.
Add them to your contacts and put them on your important list.
Use your charm and make good use of simple gestures such as getting them free coffee or simply inviting them to a special occasion will mean something.
Just make sure to keep the communication light and avoid becoming an overbearing person. This can damage your connection with such important people.
Find Your Niche
The film industry is filled with different possibilities. There will always be something for someone within this industry; hence you should start finding your niche.
Whether it is in theater, acting, producing, directing, or even the technical side of the industry, explore what you truly like about the film industry.
Once you have found your niche, learn as much about it as you can so you can be better at it.
This way, you can build a network that revolves around the people within your niche.
Build Your Skills
Now that you know your niche, it is time that you focus on building your skill set for that specific niche.
The skills that you develop during this time will help you become good at your craft.
This also means that when you begin networking, you fully understand the concept and what works within the industry or your chosen niche.
This makes you believable and professional when you start building connections with specific people. You can then show them what you've learned once you're given the chance to shine.
Help the People in Your Network
There will come a time when your network of people will ask you for favors or even let you sign up for a very small gig.
Take this as your chance to prove to yourself and to them that you are always up for anything.
You can let your network know that you are readily available, especially if you have the skills needed within the film industry.
If they need someone who can proofread their script, go ahead and volunteer, then provide good feedback about their work. This builds your relationship even further.
Listen Carefully
When you go to these networking events, make sure that you actively listen to the people that you're talking to.
Take mental notes of the things that they mentioned that they like, especially when it comes to work.
Most of the time, they provide this information, even if it's just small talk.
Listening actively and carefully means that you value the time they spend talking to you. This conveys a meaning of professionalism that they can pick up on.
Make Good Use of Social Media
Social media is one of the most powerful tools in the world right now.
Take advantage of that power with your social media account and connect with significant people.
You can check several platforms like Facebook and Twitter together with LinkedIn to find the important people in the industry.
You can stay up-to-date but make sure that you are not harassing them for a film job.
Audition Even for a Small Role
A lot of people want to make it to the film industry, thinking they can become a big star right away. While this can happen, it can only happen on very rare occasions.
The stars have to align perfectly for this to happen. If you want to make it to the film industry, audition even for a small role and work your way up to the top.
Explore and take on low-level productions, as it will teach you the basics of the film industry.
Whether you want to be an actor or just be behind the camera, any experience will always be worth your while.
Remember to Be Genuine
Always value authenticity above all else. Never act as if you're in a movie when you're networking.
It is all about building true relationships with real people.
This is why you need to find your niche, build your skill set, listen carefully, and help people so you can be your authentic self when you start conversations with significant people in this industry.
Be respectful and patient with people, and soon, good things will come to you.
Conclusion
Many people always dream of making it big in the film industry, but there are only a few who are granted such a wish. This is why you need to work hard and start building your network if you want to become the next breakout star within the film industry.
