Ways To Network & Meet Who You Need To Know.

The old saying goes, “It’s not what you know, it’s WHO you know.” This statement rings especially true when trying to break into the film industry in Hollywood. When moving to a city like this, it is best to have a method and plan for meeting and linking with people.

One of the best ways to meet people is through internships. Sometimes they are unpaid, which can make life difficult, but it is key to remember that these are primarily for meeting people and developing professional relationships. When you take an internship, make sure that you take the time to develop relationships with everyone that you can. Learn how to remember names and relate to all people in the field. You never know when the caterer might prove to be a link to a casting director who provides you with a role.

Try to become part of the scene. If you have opportunities to go to premiers, parties, and meet and greets, take them. The more often you are seen the better your chances are to land jobs. It will also increase your profile as you meet more and more people in the industry.

Using the internet and social media can also be helpful. While it should never be used in place of face to face meetings, it can be helpful to keep up with people you have met and to keep your name ‘in the air.’

When you are networking, keep some general rules of thumb in mind. First of all, be professional in everything that you do. Make sure that you are on time and do the job asked at an extremely high level. It is also critical to not speak badly of anyone. It will come back to bite you almost guaranteed.

Remember that networking is a process. There is no shortcut. While it can happen relatively quickly, it’s best to remember that it will take time to develop these relationships and for them to turn into working opportunities.