How to Grow Your Network in Film and Acting

"It's not what you know, but who you know" rings true in most walks of life, and the film industry is no different. If you want to stay relevant in this industry, it is important to get your name out there and widen your list of connections. That can seem daunting, so here are a few simple tips to help you make a start.

Begin with who you already know

The best way to get in touch with a useful contact is a personal referral. Do not be shy. Ask friends and family if they know anyone who may be able to help you or give you some advice on the industry. Most people are happy to help. After your chat, connect with them on social media so that it is easier to reach out, and send them a message once or twice a year so that you stay on their mind. You can fill them in on your most recent work.

Put yourself out there

The internet is your friend. Join online groups to connect with actors and filmmakers in your area, follow the people you are interested in on social media, and use your accounts to promote any of your upcoming projects. This is the easiest way to make new connections with people near and far. Professional development aside, it is a great way to meet like-minded people.

Keep an eye on what is happening in the industry

Are there any important events coming up? Are any of the people you want to get in touch with speaking at a webinar or giving an online course? Again, it helps to follow the people you want to reach on social media, where they will usually promote any appearances they make. Before you go to any of these events, do your homework so that you come across as engaged and clued up on your industry.

Network on set

This one may seem like a no-brainer, but you would be surprised how many people walk off a film set and never speak to anyone from it again. It is important to engage with and connect to the people you are working with wherever possible. Before you leave, ask people for their social media handles, then engage with them online. If it is appropriate, you can exchange numbers as well. Whether it is a pro-bono production or a budgeted gig, the same thing applies. You never know what someone could be working on down the road, and out of sight really is out of mind.

Do not panic

Relationships, both personal and professional, develop over time. It is important not to come across too strongly when trying to connect with an important contact. Take a step back and put yourself in their shoes: what type of person do they want to engage with, and what can you offer them? It may seem hopeless to begin with, but over time your contact base will slowly grow.

Continue to make an effort

There is a balance to be struck between playing it cool and showing that you are interested. Keep in touch with your network, and try to contact everyone in it at least once a year. It helps to approach this in an organised way. You may be building genuine relationships, but a diary or a simple list will make sure nobody slips through the cracks.

Your action steps

1. Organise a coffee with people you are already connected to through one or two degrees of separation, and have questions prepared.
2. Get your social media accounts in order, including your recent film work and any exciting updates, then research and connect with the professionals working in your industry. Ask to join any film or acting group that is active in your area.
3. Research upcoming events and add them to your diary.
4. Stay connected to the people you have worked with on set.
5. Once you have completed steps one to four, maintain those relationships and repeat the steps again and again.

Whether you are an actor looking for your next audition, a filmmaker looking for casting directors and crew, or someone just starting out, your network is what turns one job into the next. Actorly is where actors, agencies and casting directors in Ireland find each other, and it is free to join. Join Actorly for free and start building your connections.