Networking is often considered a valuable tool in the development of media careers. It isnt always attending flash dos where the champagne is following and everyone is everyone elses darling. Whilst there is an art to it, the most vital element is to be yourself. If youre putting on an act people with eventually find out.
Before you start have a short term goal, if you have medium to long term ones as well even better. The worst case is speaking to someone that could help you but have no idea what you hope to achieve. Think about who you know that might be able to help you or could put you in contact with someone that can. If they dont seem to be an option think about contacting companies directly (more on that later).
Do you know anyone that has done what youre aiming to do? How did they do it? Are any of them in a position to either help you achieve your goal or put you in touch with someone that can?
There are a few basic principles to networking that might seem like common sense but are worth pointing out:
Remember: People like to think theyre special. Remember peoples names, what they do, what they were up to (either professionally or socially) the last time you spoke (take notes after conversations if need be). If people think you care about them they will stick their neck out for you.
Be remembered: Be personable, be interested not only in expressing yourself but being excited about what they are all about. Its a two way conversation even though you might think you are just there to get something from them. Actively listen and be heard. Also..ask if they mind taking your business card/e-mail/phone number. They are under no obligation to, and a request will make you appear polite and professional.
Common ground: You might be a graduate looking for a job as a runner speaking to a high flying producer but that doesnt mean you have nothing in common. If you know a little bit about the people before making contact utilize that in discussion. If they are in a position to help you develop a career in radio production they more than likely listen to radio. Bring up something recent and relevant about the industry, a particular programme or technological advancement. If its relevant to them theyve more than likely been thinking about it and would enjoy a conversation on the topic.
Follow up but dont pester: People have bad memories. If someone has said theyll do something for you or put you in touch with someone dont assume they didnt actually want to. Get in touch again; theyve more than likely just forgotten!
Mutual benefits: Its important not to make people feel like theyre doing you a favour for nothing in return. If person A puts you in touch with person B remember to mention person A on meeting person B, give them a glowing appraisal. Do a bit of networking on their behalf. They are at this stage they are your only common ground. If anyone gives you contacts be sure to update them on how it went. This leads us to perhaps the most important networking tool of all
Thankyou! : People love gratitude. You can be so caught up in your own successes you might forget how they came about. By thanking people and detailing how theyve helped you and why youre enjoying your new experience they will remember you and more than likely want to help again in future.
Maintain contact: Even if you are no longer asking for favours maintain contact with people youve spoken to or that have helped you in the past. You never know when you might need to call on them again.
There are a few ways to contact people that are definitely more beneficial than others.
The best way is to meet in person, in a neutral environment. No one has the upper hand. They will be able to tell so much more about you and notice a genuine interest or motivation. Simply, if you have a contact ask if theyd mind meeting up for a coffee.
Dont discount the chance encounter. Put yourself in environments where good networking opportunities are likely to take place. Trade fares? Film festivals? Approach people with an interest in their product, company or production and use that as a lead in to what youre hoping to achieve.
Avoid cold calling. If someone is kind enough to give you someone elses details ask if they wouldnt mind informing them that youll be getting in touch. It means they can expect your call and it wont feel like theyve been ambushed.
Do a little research of your own before blindly sending out CVs or the same e-mail again and again. If you want to work in film and you know of a production company youd love to work for dont just call and ask for a job, or arrive un-announced with a CV. Do a little research on the company; find out who was the main creative force behind a project of theirs that you really like. Call the company and ask who is in charge of human resources. Write a letter to both people explaining why you thought that particular project was good. Then start looking at selling your self. Write a short sales brief of yourself. Wait to hear back. Follow it up. Then offer to send in your CV or even better come in for an informal chat.
Rift7: http://www.mymediacareer.com - A discussion forum for jobs and careers in media. Forums include general Media discussion, Film, TV, Radio, Interactive and Animation/Graphics. Includes Articles, Case Studies and industry resources
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