Article by Roma Scarano

In Los Angeles or any big city, it’s not uncommon to feel like a little fish in a big pond. It can be a big task to navigate and promote your art when you’re brand new to the industry. Networking is essential. It will give you the connections you need to build your career, and even make new friends along the way!

5 Tips to Networking Success

1. 1. Meet More People
      

      Get out of the house and go meet people. Introduce your friends to each other. Make real connections. It’s not about who you know, it’s about who knows you. The old saying, “It’s all about who you know” is extremely misleading. It doesn’t matter if you know top producers, directors, casting directors if they have no clue about you or your artistry. Attend more meetings. Shake more hands. Follow up with new connections.

   2. Be Genuine and Authentic
      

      Think of your favorite performers and why you like them. It’s because of their individuality and uniqueness. This isn’t to say find one “thing” about yourself and completely box yourself into that one “thing”. Find your nuances and special qualities that make you YOU. Bring value to the new people you meet by helping them with your gift: your unique voice. Our differences are purposefully designed to help each other’s weak areas.

   3. Be Humble
      

      Calm the ego. You may face that while networking. You will receive constructive criticism and advice. People who want to invest their time in you want to see you succeed. Listen to their input and feedback. It’s important to note that you don’t have to do everything they suggest. Use your discretion, but accept that there is always room to grow. 

   4. Be a Believer 
      

      Believe in your potential and others will too. Put more trust into this world by being trustworthy to people. Have confidence in your work and live with integrity. 

   5. Be Patient
      

      It all takes time. As artists, patience is a virtue that we all need. Understand that building valuable relationships with others in our industry takes time. Sometimes, networking won’t give you quick results and that’s ok! Embrace the journey.

How will you utilize these tools and ideas to improve your networking? I’d love to hear from you.

Article by Roma Scarano