I've had this on my mind for a few weeks. Just thought I'd let it loose on the world...
Getting to New York is only one step in this ongoing process to attain "success." There are numerous other necessary things to do in order to achieve my goal(s). One of which is networking. Networking. Now, this action is incredibly difficult considering there are right ways and wrong ways to make connections. Never have I actively networked with a clear understanding of what I wanted to get out of the connection, not because it wasn't important to me, but because that's just not how I operate. I've been to a few parties in the city and have witnessed some shameless, embarrassing attempts at networking that just make you extremely uncomfortable for both parties, for instance- Picture a raging dance party where two people are standing right outside the door, getting some air, maybe smoking a cig, when all of a sudden, bursting into their private conversation the networking assailant appears. This person loudly interjects useless information they believe somehow pertains to a conversation they carelessly interrupted, then immediately delves into a rehearsed introduction of who they are and what they do, pulling out a wad of business cards in the process and shoving one of them at the unsuspecting stranger who was innocently catching up with a friend. The assailant stands there presumptuously, waiting for a response and there's dead silence. The kind of still silence you wouldn't wish on your worst enemy. So, what I'm trying to say is - DON'T DO THAT, it's creepy.
Here's my strategy at getting my foot in the door (we'll find out if it words ha): Show talent. Be nice. Repeat. And it doesn't help that if I don't like someone there is a very small chance I will continue a relationship with them. Not worth it. I mean unless it means a once in a lifetime opportunity. Then, alright, I may just swallow my pride and compromise? Maybe? ha. I just feel like networking should be fun, and you should enjoy the company of the people who can potentially help you. I have a friend who is killer at networking, because he's mastered the art of showing genuine interest... or he's mastered masking the superficiality of it all... same thing? Either way, he's good.
It's all about who you know guys and dolls. Plain and simple. What a world.
And today I am off to interview for a grown up job. sweet.
I'm out.
thought this was a very interesting topic, especially for any that are pursuing the arts. we all picked a path that is extremely competitive and requires perseverance. just by never giving up, you will succeed in all endeavors.
ReplyDeletebut to address the real issue: networking.
i think everyone has their own style. but this gentleman, and i use the term loosely, was employing the "throw a bunch of shit at the wall" tactic. i don't like it either. how we present ourselves, which is the product we are selling, our creative vision, gives people who have an already short attention span a glimpse of who you are.
my theory is:Find a way to make them like you. i do think the people who you don't like, but like you, are still good to have a loose, casual relationship with, but the people you feel a real kinship with keep closer.
it comes down to communication. my dad is a salesman. he told me once, when i was complaining about not being able to find anything to talk to people about. (i used to be quite snobbish). he told me a valuable thing......
1. Listen. find out what they are interested in. find something you both can vibe on. for me and my brother who are completely different, it is video games. you can find something you know know a little about they are passionate about.
2. VIBE, and share of yourself naturally. be yourself and like you as the cool, fun person you are (so no networking depressed or wasted). then make friends if it is appropriate.
3. Get numbers/email/contact. and most importantly get a last name or way to remember them.
4. Follow up. check in periodically maybe invite to any large social gathering you may be a part of. but i believe you do have to be somewhat aggressive to have an impact. and it takes time. so learn to meditate or something. lol.
hope this response is cool chris. i know its a bit long but felt inspired.
This is more than cool! Really helpful. I am a novice at starting conversation (when I'm sober) haha! It's true, you really do need to be a good listener because everyone has at least one thing in common- EVERYONE. And I think people forget that sometimes...
ReplyDeletethanks for the insightful comment!