Last night I had dinner with a group of friends, beyond the tasty grilled salmon and asparagus, we were engaged in spirited conversation. Of the group, I am the only one vested in the entertainment industry. One of my friends, an actor, made an off handed remark that the entertainment industry was very challenging because it has nothing to do with talent, but everything to do with "who you know".
Personal networking is a crucial ingredient to transforming from aspiring artist to entertainment industry professional, I also believe it's not just "who you know", but how one navigates those connections-and whether one chooses to do so at all. Personal networking is instrumental to becoming an actor. It's an invaluable tool to identifying unique and rare opportunities suited to you, as well as to maximize the value of your current relationships.
Here are three basic guidelines for successful personal networking.
1 - Be Open Minded to Anything!
Networking is not all about what people can do to help you. It's all about mutual benefit. To start with, you must understand all your strengths and weaknesses. Then always seek opportunities where your abilities contribute enormous value to others. The result, others will want to be a part of your network if they know that you will add value. And more importantly, your existing relationships will be strengthened if you can consistently add value to those in your network.
2 - Do Things That Will Tell a Great Story!
The game, Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon, rests on the assumption that any actor can be linked through his or her film roles to actor Kevin Bacon, but did you know that Rod Steiger is the best linked actor in Hollywood history?
Rod refused a studio contract and made the conscious choice to play a varied number of roles in numerous films. His tapestry of characters afforded him the opportunity to work with people from all walks of life, resulting in multiple social dimensions.
Do cool things. Do a lot of things. The result will be that your network will include people from all walks of life. The more life experiences you possess the more interesting YOU become and more importantly, you become a greater asset to others.
Your mission is to be the first person everyone remembers and suggests when others ask, "Do you know anyone who...."
3 - Get Out There!
Its your career don't wait for others to come to you. If you sit back and wait for others, you're not likely to get much out of networking.
• First, arrange for a non-business social meeting.
• When you travel, let people in your network know and ask them if there is anyone they feel you should meet in that specific city/town.
• Networking in the online world through social media platforms, networks, groups, and events. Try to add value and take on responsibilities within the groups that you join.
Become an Actor
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