Hey All, I have a mini-epiphanyt o share. I've been networking for my show/writing like crazy over the last year, and while I've met a lot of people, had a lot of fun, and learned a lot, I felt like the traction I'd gained was teeny tiny in comparison to the work I've been putting in. Couple of weeks back I read something from RB (I think it was an older blog post) in which he wrote, "Remember this is a business of relationships." BOOM! That really hit me. Of course we all know that, but I realized I've been focused on networking but haven't really been working on creating relationships. Sure, they go hand in hand, but I think creating relationships is warmer, deeper, more give and take rather than going in with the attitude of, "gee, I hope these people can help me." I've completely shifted my internal perspective on this, which of course impacts how l reach out to people, and am already seeing a difference. Just thought I'd share this "a-ha!" moment in case someone out there is in the same boat.
Anything Goes : A Thought on Networking and Building Relationships by Terri Viani
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I'm definitely in this boat. I want to speak with people on here, but I tend to favor deep conversations as opposed to superficial small talk. So, I myself am unsure sure how to "professionally" strike up that conversation. Glad you posted this! :)
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Let's all have a 'virtual' beer in a 'virtual' pub together! We can chill, form friendships, network and get to know each other in a relaxed environment without feeling the pressure of 'network, network, network' RB, Can you create a virtual bar for us? Preferably with real life beer if possible... Hehehehe... :)
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Gemma I am 100 percent behind this idea. =D
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Lol! Cos we can sit and compose our lightbulb script without appearing mental to everyone else! After all, what else does one talk about after a few beers?
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Great post. And it is true. Networking is great, but build relationships is rich and opens the doors.
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@Terri - great post, I totally agree and miss real relationships additionally to Stage32 as well. If we all were already famous and rich we could travel and meet each other but what will help now? @Gemma - yes, I know how to do this and already planned a virtual meeting via MeetUp here - unfortunately only two people singed up for it. Will try to organize such a MeetUp later again. Hope you all will sign in then. :)
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As long as we all bring beer and sign an NDA regarding anything said under the influence of alcohol that could result in us cleaning the set instead of working on it I'm in for sure! lol :)
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Thanks for posting this, Terri! And, Gemma, I appreciate the 'virtual pub'. In person, when I meet like-minded people and everything clicks, networking and relationship-building seem so easy, but being an Aspie, it's not always the case...especially online. I'm terrible with small talk, but when speaking about something I'm passionate about and listening to others talk about their passions, I can hang out for days. Throw in the beer or cocktails and I become even more chatty! : )
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Hahahahaha Gemma, this lightbulb script is happening at some point. Elisabeth if you organize another virtual meet-up please let me know I'm in. Marli, I hear you on the small talk. I've always been somewhat socially awkward - though it's improved immensely in the last couple of years - so we'll all meet in the virtual pub and be awkward together. lol =)
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Hey, gang, I'm in--as long as you serve virtual Guinness at the virtual pub. And virtual Captain Morgan's and Coke. And virtual Loaded LandSharks. Geez, I sound like a bartender. Or your typical screenwriter.
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I will definitely be there and virtually awkward...until the virtual Guinness kicks in!
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Well my favorite beer is wine so I will need this. =D
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Possibly this. Heh. OK, back to script revisions.....
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Terri, we can't forget to bring our protagonist, so here he is, bless him...
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And.....in case anyone forgets it's a 'bring a bottle' party, I shall come prepared with this as well.....
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You guys had me at beer...
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Yes, cheers! Back to the thread topic. Thanks!
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Contacts are everything in this business but it helps it the people you connect with are people you can eventually work with. Note: I have been away for a while but am back and hope to spend more time here now that I am back.
For sure Dan. And welcome back into the fold.
Dan, I've missed you! Great to have you back. :)
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Thanks!
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I like this topic. I haven't accomplished anything to write home about but I have manage to develop some pretty good relationships. Everyone in this business including producers have a goal and if you can help them achieve theirs then maybe you might be able to achieve yours which is probably to see your script turned into a film. Connections in this business is everything!!!
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For what it's worth, my post about this exact topic: https://www.stage32.com/lounge/screenwriting/Create-a-Win-Win-Exec-Etiqu...
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Regina, awesome post, thanks for pointing me towards it!
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Thank you for sharing the link, Regina...such a great post! Welcome back, Dan!
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Agreed. I moved to LA almost a year ago and as I continue to meet and be introduced to folks in the industry (writers, film editors, network producers), I make it a point to send emails and meet up for brews (caffeinated and hoppy) from time to time. I'm learning that it's so important to be considered someone who is great to work with, and people won't really know that about you or vouch for you if you don't stay in touch.
Jim...gimmie, gimmie! but perhaps with a shot of vodka?? Just for an extra kick? Jejeje...
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Back when I was a bartender at Casey's Irish Pub, I made a lovely concoction called a Vanilla Guinness. Pour a shot of Vanilla Vodka of your choice, preferably cooled, into a pint glass. Pour Guinness. After it's settled, write the letter "V" in the foam (instead of a three /four leaf clover). Absolutely delicious. But be careful. They can make for a short evening.
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I love Guinness. And the Irish. And our vitual bar. And everyone who visits. I'm just full of love. :)
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Allow me to add a "What, ho!" and a Huzzah!" to your "A-ha!" I think you're exactly right.
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Heath Sounds good but dangerous - as long as you cans till taste the Guinness its gotta be good
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Hey, Rick. Hahahaha! Yeah. It's a dangerous and tasty Guinness drink. You have to be careful when you pour the vanilla vodka. A little less than a shot is just about right. Too much and it overpowers the Guinness.