You're an executive in the Film Industry. How do you create a network of industry contacts?

Merri Dee, a broadcast television legend, gave me one of the best 'first steps' tips for forming a network of industry contacts. Be genuine, listen to others, and keep in touch through 'just because of' efforts. Having someone you meet in the industry simply call 'just because' goes a long way, especially if you need their support or advice in the future. It's the way life works!

It’s a great experience to attend festivals, markets and screenings. Building your network is secondary. The main point for me is to be in the vibrancy of the industry and be with like minded people. Share, be inspired, connect.

Be authentic, honest, and open to new ideas Collaborative thinking will propel you even further. Share some of your experiences, and offer to pool resources.

Attending events in the film industry is crucial for meeting people face-to-face, exchanging ideas, and forming meaningful connections. It's about showing up, engaging in conversations, and building relationships with others who share your passion for filmmaking.

I imagine if you're an executive in the film industry you have worked your way up through the connections you have made. So, let's use this for those who wish to create a network. Social media, especially LinkedIn is one of the best ways to begin to grow your network and connections. LinkedIn is still very much the professionals platform and it is filled with all types of industry contacts. Use this platform to create initial connections. As your network grows, something you will start seeing is that some of those industry contacts will talk about industry events they are attending. You can use that information as a way to connect in person, and take the next step from digital to real life. Keep doing that over and over.

Using social media is a fantastic way to connect with others in the film industry. You can follow industry professionals, engage in conversations, share your work, and build relationships organically. It's like attending a virtual networking event where you can interact with people from all over the world who share your passion for film.

Joining industry organizations is a great way to meet other professionals in the film industry. These organizations often host events, workshops, and mixers where you can connect with peers, learn from experts, and build relationships that can benefit your career. Plus, being part of these communities provides access to valuable resources and opportunities for collaboration.

Building relationships in the film industry is all about genuine connections. It means taking the time to get to know other professionals, listening to their stories, sharing your own experiences, and supporting each other's work. Whether it's grabbing coffee with a colleague or collaborating on a project, nurturing these connections is essential for success in the industry.

In the film industry, learning and growing are vital for success. It means staying curious, seeking out new opportunities to improve your skills, and being open to feedback and experiences that challenge you. By constantly evolving and adapting, you can stay ahead of the curve and continue to excel in your career.

Build relationships which are based on common foundations, look for the things that bring us together. Give first without expectations of benefiting from the relationships : the ones which will yield positive things might surprise you. Plus if you build connections first for genuinely connecting, without trying to gain from them immediately, they will be stronger and last longer and that humain connection will be your immediate gain. Choose diversity too, people who might not at first seem to have much in common with you might turn out to be the people you learn the most from. Celebrate them, be there with support, advice : show up for your connections!

I think the best method to grow your network is to connect other people. I you have a contact of value don’t keep it to yourself. We should all enrich our lives. So be generous - and people woll be generous with you.

Connecting is based on empathy and altruism. Although I have worked hard to make contacts and accomplished my goals, I love to provide and help others by giving away my contacts and recommendations. For free! As the daughter of an agent, this is quite unusual. Over the time I have created a huge network in the arts and entertainment. And as I help, which is very satisfying-I get help in return too.