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\u201cNetworking\u201d. For some of you, this word alone will evoke unpleasant sensations. I totally get it. We\u2019re filmmakers and want to make films, not small talk. However, creating movies, music videos, and other kinds of visual stories is a collaborative process. You need people. Preferably, people you like. Even better \u2013 the ones who know their game. And yet, it can be very difficult at times to find your swarm. But don\u2019t worry! Here we have gathered some networking tips for filmmakers and video creators that you can try out. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n

It doesn\u2019t matter whether you\u2019re a new-born filmmaker, or have a long IMDB<\/a> record. One day, you might have to move to a tiny Austrian town (hey there!), change your specification from ad producer to documentary shooter, or get a million subscribers on your YouTube channel overnight and start seeking collaborations. Life is an unpredictable beast. Yet, if you know how to grow your network from scratch, reach out to experts, and expand your connections (on- and offline), you won\u2019t ever get lost. That\u2019s what we\u2019re going to talk about further below.<\/p>\n\n

First steps in networking as filmmakers<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n

The concept of an “elevator pitch\u201c can seem annoying. At the same time, if you want to network (regardless of whether digitally or in person), you will surely need a quick summary of yourself and\/or your current projects. The best-case scenario is to make a short, memorable, self-introduction that also opens a door to further discussion. How?<\/p>\n\n

Think of yourself as a brand (sounds cheesy, I know, but it helps). What could be your creative mission? If you don\u2019t have any films in the making, answer generally. What is it you want to talk about in your work? Which values and messages are important to you? What sparks your interest? How can you help your potential clients and collaborators \u2013 to achieve what? Write it down and read it aloud. Make sure your speech lasts between 30 and 60 seconds (or 50 to 200 words).<\/p><334600-mzed-course\/>\n\n

In her MZed<\/a> course \u201cHow to Start a Podcast<\/a>\u201d, marketing strategist Latasha James<\/a> also suggests creating \u201ca listener profile\u201d. Speaking broadly, you need to establish your \u201caudience\u201d. Who would be interested in working with you? For whom can your expertise (or films, YouTube channel, podcast \u2013 pick your own variant here) be especially valuable? Imagine these people and write down a few biographical details about them. They will be your first contacts. (More tips on defining your audience and topics here<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n

Going to open events<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n

Okay, now you have a brief introduction of yourself and maybe even something to show (portfolio, showreel, pitch deck<\/a>). Next step: attending events (since I know only limited alternatives for meeting people in person without venturing out of an introverted comfort zone). There are a lot of them: panels, discussions, Roger Deakins<\/a> coming to the nearby filmmaking university\u2026 something happens all the time and everywhere, so make a habit of monitoring interesting events in your area. I suggest subscribing to newsletters of all film-related organizations, clubs, and unions in your city and any ones that are close by. This way, you won\u2019t miss the next golden opportunity to network.<\/p>\n\n

For instance, in Austria, we have an annual government-supported conference CIMIx (\u201cCreative Industries meets Industry\u201d) for audio-visual professionals where they hold so-called speed-dating business meetings. It works like this: Before the event, you can read about other participants and send a meeting request to those you find interesting. If they accept, the platform automatically establishes a 20-minute time slot and even assigns a table number. It’s so easy, and no small talk required! For sure, you can find something similar in your area.<\/p>\n\n

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I made three valuable connections and found a production company for my next projects this way. Image source: Aussenwirtschaft Austria. Image credit: Marko Kovic \/ Marko\u2019s Photography<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n

Networking tips on approaching experts<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n

Just going to events is one thing. Getting to know people there who can become your collaborators is the next level. For personal practice, I borrowed a bunch of useful networking tips from a famous American entrepreneur and podcaster Tim Ferriss<\/a> (in particular, from the following interview).<\/p>\n\n

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