It sounds cliché, but the film industry thrives on the idea that it’s not what you know; it’s who you know.
Being a talented filmmaker means nothing unless you build contacts, learn from them, and show them what you’re capable of.
Opportunities to get your foot in the door come from established contacts willing to give you a shot. Ultimately, you need to build a great reputation before becoming a go-to talent.
So, here are our top tips from finding a solid starting point to creating momentum and keeping those opportunities coming.
Start Your Search
One obvious way is through a classic Google search. However, this takes a strategic approach rather than simply calling the first film production company that comes up.
Plus, if you find cold calling intimidating, there are easier ways to start out.
For example, local arts councils may have a list of recommended local contacts who are much less intimidating to approach, especially if they’re known for helping newcomers.
If you’ve studied film, get to know your instructors and any industry professionals who hold guest lectures. Most of them have or still do work in the industry themselves.
“Stalk” Before You “Talk”
It might seem impossible to approach someone, let alone get a response. However, if you’ve done your homework before you reach out, you’ll be much more successful. This is what we mean by “stalk.”
First, find out who the correct person is to contact and get their direct email. If these details aren’t listed on a production company’s website, don’t be afraid to call and politely ask.
Next, familiarize yourself with their work. Show genuine interest and explain why you want to work with them specifically.
Finally, when following up with people, be organized. Create a directory for each of your contacts and note down the following:
- The production company details
- What you know about their work
- The name of anyone who recommended them to you
- Date and details of any contact you’ve made
Be a Standout
If you think you’re the only person ever to send a résumé to a production company, think again. Lots of people want to find work in the film and TV industry, and it’s the ones who stand out who get a callback.
So make sure you reach out with a compelling email and resume. Remember, if you don’t have experience yet, passion and a humble story go a long way.
Be sure to explain why they should hire you without bragging. For example, tell them what you can bring to a role that will benefit their company or production.
Knock on Doors Again and Again
Remember, persistence is key, but pestering will only get you noticed for the wrong reasons. It’s fine to follow up with a call or a second courtesy email referencing your original message. However, leave at least a week for them to respond before you reach out again.
It also doesn’t hurt to drop by a production office to introduce yourself—just call ahead first and ask.
It’s Time to Network
Now that you’ve introduced yourself electronically, it’s time to get out there and start networking.
Networking can feel intimidating, but it’s a huge part of building your freelance career, and you have to be ready to do it anytime. But how do you turn an opportunity into a job?
It’s actually very simple to get right, and there are a few quick wins to help you become a world-class networker.
Do Your Research Properly
Never go into a room blind if you can avoid it. Like emailing, preparation is everything.
Before a screening, read up on the crew from the director to the production assistant. That way, when you bump into them at the bar, you’ll have some conversation starters like:
“Hey, didn’t you also work on [insert film]? I heard it was shortlisted at the [insert film festival], congrats! I’ve been meaning to see it. Is it screening anytime soon?”
A word of caution, though, despite what was said earlier, try not to come off as an actual stalker. Be well-informed, but tread carefully!
Ask Questions
Networking is a lot like dating in some ways; the more engaged and interested you seem, the better. People love to talk about themselves, so give them the chance to do so. Be genuinely interested, listen, and remember key details.
It’s also a good way to gauge character. If they’re friendly, they’ll ask back and show interest. If they’re not, you’ll know they may be best avoided. You can learn a lot about someone by their conversational habits.
Introduce Others
Maybe you start chatting with someone who needs an animator, and you just spoke to an animator five minutes ago. Make the connection!
Networking isn’t just about getting what you want; it’s about helping others get what they need and being the person who helps make that happen.
First, have a good chat with them, and if you see the other person (in this case, the animator), bring them over and introduce them.
The bonus is that it also lets you bow out, grab a drink, and meet more people.
Bring Business Cards
If you show up to a networking event without a business card, you might as well turn around and go home.
Business cards are essential for networking. Instead of fumbling with your phone to exchange numbers and emails, you can quickly hand over a card without interrupting the conversation.
You’ll also be flooded with cards, so do your best to remember who’s who. Write a quick note on the back of each card to remind you of the person, something like “Sam loves Scorsese and beer.”
Don’t Interrupt People
If two people are having a deep conversation, don’t jump in; you’ll only alienate yourself and come across as pushy.
If you’re eager to talk to them, wait until their conversation ends or until someone else joins in. That’s your moment to step in naturally.
Networking takes courage to approach strangers, but timing is everything. Just because someone is alone doesn’t mean they’re not worth talking to—they might end up being your best connection.
Remember Names
We all do this; it’s hard to remember names when they’re coming at you left and right. But do your best to remember people’s names when they introduce themselves.
Using someone’s name breaks down barriers and helps people warm up to you. It makes the conversation feel personal and shows that you care about who they are.
If you do forget, politely say, “I’m so sorry, I’m terrible with names—I didn’t quite catch yours earlier.”
Don’t Talk Too Much
The opposite of “ask, ask, ask” is talking too much. Don’t treat a networking event like a sales pitch; people don’t want to be sold to. They want to get to know you and see if you click personally before considering working together.
Remember, a conversation goes both ways. Unless they’re asking for more, stop before they start glancing around for the nearest exit.
Talk to Everyone
The worst thing you can do is be rude. No matter how experienced you are, there’s never an excuse for it.
Chat with the new production assistant or the aspiring camera operator with little experience. They may not have been in the industry long, but they could have tons of potential and just need someone to give them a chance. These are the people who will sing your praises and recommend you to others.
Follow Up with an Email
All of these tips lead to this final step—turning an opportunity into paid work. Using their card (with that fun note on the back) and remembering what they told you, follow up with an email.
You can usually wait a day or two, but timing isn’t critical. Here’s an example of what to say:
“Hey Sam,
It was great meeting you at [insert film network event] on Thursday. I love your work and really saw the [insert director’s name] in [insert film title]! I’m away for the next two weeks, but once I’m back, let’s catch up over a beer. I’d love to hear more about your projects.
Kind regards,”
And voilà, you’ve got yourself an opening!
If you’re planning to send some of your own work in the email, make sure you check out how to create a great showreel.
Summary
Hopefully, you’re already nailing the do’s and avoiding the don’ts.
Networking can be challenging, and everyone makes mistakes or gets nervous sometimes. But if you stay confident, calm, and approachable, you’ll do great. Good luck!
