Attending some business networking events soon? How can you make genuine connections with filmmakers without coming off as pushy, fake or arrogant? Yuck.

Business networking events are a great way for filmmakers and actors to meet other professionals in their field. They give attendees a chance to promote themselves, find new opportunities, and make genuine connections with other filmmakers and actors. Networking events consist of many different kinds of activities that allow attendees to get creative and have fun while also building authentic relationships.

Let’s explore some ways to make genuine connections with people you actually WANT to work with.

Can I also suggest this article on the importance of MENTORSHIPS for your career?

What are some business networking events to meet filmmakers?

Networking is an important aspect of the entertainment business. There are many different networking events that can help you meet film makers, directors, and other like minded artists.

1. Film Festivals– The most common place are film festivals, such as Sundance, Cannes and Toronto International Film Festival.
   • These of course are for the big leagues, but pretty much every state has their own film festival on some level. I personally believe you may have better chance of making a genuine connections with local up and coming filmmakers here than your Martin Scorsese or Benny Safdie’s (Uncut Gems, Licorice Pizza, Obi-Wan Kenobi)
2. Meetup.com or Networking Events in your Area– You’d be surprised at how many people in your area are also seeking authentic relationships for future collaborations. They WANT to create, they WANT to learn, they are looking for YOU!
   1. I’m telling you, go on Facebook
   2. Type in actors, filmmakers, movie lovers (something along these lines) AND which city or state you live in into the search bar.
   3. Request to join ALL of these groups
   4. Make a post introducing yourself and what you do and your interests
   5. Follow through and DON’T FLAKE. Communication is important if you’re looking to build genuine connections with filmmakers and literally everyone on the planet.
3. Local Premieres– You can also attend screenings of local indie films in your area. Some people offer to show their own movies at networking events as a way of networking with others in the industry. This is a more informal event where you can make connections without having to worry about formal introductions or speeches. It’s also a great way to show support

They WANT to create, they WANT to learn, they are looking for YOU

Don’t bs. Make genuine connections with filmmakers

It is important for us to connect with filmmakers on a more genuine level, rather than just faking it.

I was fortunate to have an incredibly in depth conversation with award winning filmmaker, Hisonni Mustafa, on how to make genuine relationships with filmmakers.

There were several aspects of the conversation that I had never considered before, but one element Hisonni keyed in on was actually having similar interests and creative styles.

It totally makes sense, if you’re not connecting on this level, then it may not be the right collaboration for you. Actors who are cast in movies should be able to relate to the director’s vision of the story.

Take a moment to listen to this section of “Always Acting Up” podcast, so you can hear it directly from Hisonni, not my potentially butchered version.

Staying Connected

So, you met some filmmakers and had a successful business networking event, now what?

Let’s remember the “rule of 7“. It simply says that the prospective buyer should hear or see the marketing message at least seven times before they buy it from you. In other words, out of sight out of mind.

Here are a few other ways you can stay connected after a networking event:

1. Social media. We’re well into the days of technology and social media and almost everyone is on at least one platform.
   • “LIKE” and comment on some of their videos
   • Share content that you believe they would enjoy. (remember, you made a genuine connection from similar interests)
   • Don’t shy away from your talents. Post content that displays your skills.
2. Supporting. Attend their screenings, share their awards and accomplishments
3. Newsletters. If you have a non spammy (1 or 2x a year) ask if you can add them to be included in your mailing lists
4. Invite. Do you have an event, screening, show, etc coming up? Invite your new relationships to attend.

Conclusion

In conclusion, networking is a powerful way to expand your network and make genuine connections with filmmakers. It can help you secure a job, find new collaborations, or create a new business. Networking events are a great way to meet filmmakers and develop genuine relationships that aren’t fake. Make sure to stay in contact with your new connections!

Let me know in the comments and if you liked this blog, make sure to subscribe to my newsletter to stay up to date on the latest and greatest tips to look, feel, and perform better in front of the camera AND in life!

Plus, by subscribing, you’ll get my free cheat sheet on how to prep for the BEST photo shoot ever!