YOU’RE AN INEFFECTIVE NETWORKER IF…
I attend numerous events in various parts of the country and abroad, sometimes as a student, but predominately as a speaker. Beyond the workshops, panels, and vendors peddling their wares, these events always host some type of planned social event. Be it the “welcome to”, the “gala opening”, the “gala closing”, the “meet and greets”, etc.. Different names, but same specific purpose: to network.
On the flight home from my most recent speaking engagement I considered the following:”Do screenwriters know how to effectively network at these events? Do they truly understand what effective networking actually is? Do they understand how it actually works? Because as I recalled my encounters with many of the screenwriters I had met at the event it certainly didn’t feel like they did.
According to Dictionary.com (http://tinyurl.com/loxgbq) the definition of “Networking” is: to cultivate people who can be helpful to one professionally, esp. in finding employment or moving to a higher position.
After reviewing the above definition, it made sense to me why most screenwriters I encounter at events are ineffective at networking. They misinterpret and misunderstand the definition thus becoming ineffective networkers. I know what you’re thinking. Click here: http://tinyurl.com/382×8a
Being an ineffective networker can stifle, stall, and/or prevent you from developing mutually valuable relationships.
Marvin, how do I know if I am an ineffective networker? Here’s how:
You’re an ineffective networker if…
You believe:
• That networking is about one thing and one thing only: getting your script and/or pitching your idea to everyone in the room.
• That you’re not there to make friends or to have fun.
• That it’s all about your own needs. There is certainly no interest in reciprocity.
• That casual conversation is a waste of your time therefore you simply jump into selling your script or an idea before the appetizer even arrives.
• That there is only one specific time and place for networking and it’s called “An easel sitting at the entrance of some ballroom with a sign that says so.”
• That it’s best to attend with friends/co-workers, but then sit and talk with them the entire time.
Marvin, the reason I’m networking in the first place is because I want to get something. I want to meet my ideal producer, agent, executive or manager and/or meet someone who can refer me to my ideal producer, agent, executive or manager. I want someone to buy my script!
Yes I know… I really do. Believe me I get it.
But don’t forget, your belief system is the key to effective networking.
In fact, it’s the MOST important aspect to understand.
Why not GIVE first?
The main reason that I go to a FF or a conference is to learn and network. There is also an intangible fringe benefit… fun! Whether it’s the new Karaoke night at the Santa Fe SW conference, or a night out in Austin, have a blast; because at the end of the day, the quality of your work, luck and persistence may not even be enough to get you into the door. I can at least say that I met some great people, and had a blast!
Brett Moore
Brett A. Moore
4 Nov 09 at 7:42 am
Marvin, I couldn’t agree with you more. This is why I don’t go to any function labeled “network” or “networking”. I find most of the people who attend them aren’t interested in talking to me. They want to find the agent, manager or producer (who rarely show up to them anyway) and sweet-talk them. I get it, but it’s not the right way to do it. I prefer to go to parties where people want to have fun. If you meet a cool contact, great! If not, at least you still had fun — and the people there WILL REMEMBER YOU! Not looking like you have an agenda in a business where everyone has an agenda will mostly likely put you on an important person’s agenda. I don’t know why people in this city don’t get that.
Andre
5 Nov 09 at 7:51 pm