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KAThe actual blueprint to building a film network (Part 2)🎬🤝.
Making the initial connection on set is easy. Keeping that connection alive so it actually turns into a booking is where 90% of freelancers fail. If you want to move up the call sheet, here are 5 more realities of networking in the film industry:
1️⃣ The Follow-Up Spreadsheet: You did great making the initial connection, but how are you nurturing it? Start a spreadsheet. Log the DP, Director, or Producer you met, what project you worked on, and the date you last spoke. Every 6-8 weeks, reach out. Don’t ask for a job. Just send a link to an article about the new ARRI Alexa 35 sensor or congratulate them on a recent shoot. Stay top of mind without being a transaction.
2️⃣ Community Over Competition: Support other filmmakers because your time is coming. If your buddy gets booked to operate a Sony FX6 on a massive commercial, gas them up. Recommend them for jobs you can’t take. In this industry, a rising tide lifts all boats. The people you came up with will be the ones hiring you tomorrow.
3️⃣ Don’t Take It Personally: You will get passed over for gigs. You will get ghosted after an interview. Do not take it to heart. Sometimes a director just wants a different visual style, or the producer hired their cousin. It has nothing to do with your skill behind the monitor. Keep your head down and keep shooting.
4️⃣ Protect the PA: Treat the Production Assistants with the exact same respect you give the Executive Producer. The PA grabbing your coffee today is going to be the Production Manager greenlighting your day rate in three years.
5️⃣ Survive the Burnout: The exhaustion in this industry is real. But do not sell your gear and quit right when the pressure peaks. You are usually one conversation, one passion project, or one set away from your big break. Delusional optimism wins.
👇🏾 Comment “MORE” and I’ll DM you my extended list of networking secrets!
Were these tips helpful?!
@karlflacko
