How to Network in the Film Industry (Even if You Hate Networking)
Let’s be real: nobody likes networking. Most filmmakers picture it as some forced, awkward event where you hand out business cards and hope someone magically gives you a job. And yeah, that version sucks.
But here’s the truth no one tells you when you’re starting out: networking is the number one way filmmakers actually get hired.
I’ve worked as an Assistant Director for years. I’ve hired crews, I’ve been hired, and I’ve watched people struggle because they thought job boards were the answer.
They’re not.
Your career lives and dies by your relationships.
So if you want film jobs… you’ve got to get serious about networking.
Why Networking Matters in the Film Industry
The film industry is freelance-based. There’s no HR department collecting resumes and scheduling interviews for every position. Jobs move fast, and productions don’t have time to post openings, sift through applications, and interview a dozen people.
Instead, they hire who they know. Or who someone they trust knows and wants to recommend.
That means:
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Connections get you opportunities.
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Your reputation travels faster than your resume.
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The next job usually comes from the last job.
This isn’t about being fake or “schmoozy.” It’s about being someone people know, like, and trust to do the work.
The 3 Biggest Networking Struggles Filmmakers Face
When I talk to new filmmakers, I hear the same frustrations over and over:
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“I feel awkward and don’t know what to say.”
Small talk feels forced, and it’s easy to retreat into the background.
👉 Quick Tip: Come prepared with 2–3 go-to questions (“What are you working on right now?” / “How did you get into film?”). You don’t have to be charming just be curious.
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“I only meet people at my level.”
It’s comfortable hanging with other beginners, but that won’t get you closer to decision-makers.
👉 Quick Tip: Challenge yourself to talk to at least one person who intimidates you. Often, they’re more approachable than you think and they’re the ones who can open doors.
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“I don’t know how to follow up.”
You might make a connection at an event, but then let it fade because you’re unsure how to reach out without feeling pushy.
👉 Quick Tip: Send a simple message within 24 hours: “It was great meeting you at [event]. Would love to stay in touch.” That’s it. Keep it short, friendly, and pressure-free.
Sound familiar? Good news: these are all things you can fix.
Everyone Has a Networking Style (What’s Yours?)
Here’s the thing: not everyone networks the same way.
Some filmmakers are natural Storytellers — they’ve got a set story for every occasion and pull people in with their energy. Others are Wallflowers — hanging back and observing. Then you’ve got the Social Butterflies who can float between groups like it’s nothing.
There’s no “right” style. But if you know your style, you can use it to your advantage.
👉 That’s why I created the Film Networking Personality Quiz.
It’s a fun (and eye-opening) way to find out how you show up at film networking events and how to turn that into real opportunities.
From Networking to Opportunities
Taking the quiz gives you awareness. But awareness isn’t enough if you actually want to land more film jobs.
That’s where my mini course, Unlocking Film Opportunities, comes in.
In this course, I’ll show you:
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How to approach people at events without feeling awkward
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What to say so the conversation doesn’t die
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How to follow up the right way (without being annoying)
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How to turn networking into actual jobs
Because here’s the deal: your next film gig isn’t hiding on Mandy or Staff Me Up. It’s hiding in a conversation.
Final Takeaway
Networking doesn’t have to be fake, awkward, or draining. It can actually be fun — and it’s 100% the fastest way to grow your film career.
So, here’s your move:
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Take the Film Networking Personality Quiz to find out your style.
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Grab the Unlocking Film Opportunities mini course so you can actually put it into action.
Your film career won’t grow on its own. The people you meet — and the relationships you build — are the key.
👉 [Start with the quiz today.]
