How to festival
Navigating the often dreaded work of networking in the entertainment industry.
Your Story, Your Business: Strategic advice and creative business notes from Freshly Ground Stories where storytelling meets structure, to make your story, your business.
Navigating the world of big personalities when you're not there for the red carpet or selfies can be intimidating. For many, this is the icky-part of the industry. It's the part that many put off when they are starting out. So much so, that it can even be a blocker to the next stage of a creative career.
A film festival is usually a concentrated population of industry people all in one place. Yes, some might love to talk about themselves too much and some might outright lie, but ultimately, they all love stories. Some of them are interesting and kind human beings who, no matter how successful, might feel the same discomfort as you. There are no stories without human interaction and films can't be made without it.
Whilst it might not feel like it, remember that the industry needs you. Without you, there is no talent pool, there's no upcoming talent, there's no fresh new ideas. You might be the blank space in someone's origin story: "I was the first one to discover ______'s work".
Part of Freshly Ground Stories' mission is to breakdown barriers to entry, so that creativity can flourish. So, if you're weary about stepping into the world of networking as a newcomer to the industry, or you're looking for a pick-me-up after some time off networking, this one for you. Here's a quick cheat-sheet for any sort of networking at creative industry events, especially for festival first-timers, to get you excited.
Tokyo International Film Festival by Mos Design via Unsplace
1. Find a friend or a friendly face
Not a pitch deck. Your pitch. What is the story you are going to tell about about yourself? It can be as simple as "I'm X and I love stories about Y". You don't have to have everything figured out yet.
Reminder: we all get by with a little help from our friends
2. Prepare your pitch
Not a pitch deck. Your pitch. What is the story you are going to tell about about yourself? It can be as simple as "I'm X and I love stories about Y". You don't have to have everything figured out yet.
Reminder: No-one has everything figured out.
3. Prepare your opening
Feeling awkward about silence in a taxi or want to walk up to someone who looks interesting and is sitting alone? Try "Hello I'm X and it's my first festival. I'm really making an effort to meet people. What brings you to this festival?" You can even skip your intro and use the last sentence standalone. Don't worry, people like to talk about themselves.
Reminder: everyone is also there meet people.
4. Go with your gut
If something or someone feels off, walk away. If someone is rude, extract yourself from the conversation as quickly as possible e.g. "I really have to pee, brb". You never have to see them again. Rude people generally don't remember faces anyway.
Reminder: Karma is a bitch.
5. Don't overthink your outfits
Unless you've specifically been invited to a red carpet event or formal dinner, nobody cares what you're wearing. Wear whatever makes you feel good. When it doubt, all-black-everything. Black pants, black top, black dress, some sneakers and if you need colour, accessorise with a pop of something. A pop of something could give you an advantage of memorability factor. With so many new faces everyday, you might want to catch attention through your fashion. As long as it’s something that feels good and empowering for you e.g a statement accessory, a bold jacket, fun frames. Maybe leave the indoor sunglasses for when the paparazzi is after you. It's an easy transition from daytime meetings a networking evening. If you need something fancy and don't have anything in your closet, formal rentals are a booming business
Reminder: the paparazzi is likely not watching you.
Photo by Bibi on Unsplash
6. Fake it until you make it
Don't focus too much on what you don't know. Nod along and look it up later. You might be there to learn but you are also there because you are part of the industry. Don't let yourself think otherwise.
Reminder: Everybody is always learning, whether they like to admit it or not.
7. Be shameless
There aren't a lot of circumstances where you get up close and personal to some big industry names. Even if they are a celebrity in your world, it's an industry event. They are at work and you are part of the industry, so it's like saying hello to someone in a company's canteen. You are not interrupting a dinner with their family. Walk up to them (in this context, they are probably expecting and open to it) and introduce yourself, or, ask them a question.
Reminder: humans are social creatures.
8. Set a target
Start with setting a goal of introducing yourself to at least one person a day. If you feel comfortable with more, go for it. Setting a target helps with motivation. Gamify it in your own way if it helps.
Reminder: think about what got you excited about going to the event.
9. Collect stalker material
Physical business cards might be old school, but think about your approach to greetings cards. Are you an e-card sender or card shop customer? Whatever feels natural for you, do that. Share your contacts and collect them. If you've enjoyed speaking to someone, chances are they have too. Something like "I would love to stay in touch and continue this conversation. What is the best way to reach you?". People expect this and it's unlikely they will say no. If they do, say thank you and walk away.
Reminder: How will you follow-up if you don't have anywhere to send your follow-up to?
10. Please. Enjoy yourself
Saving the most important part for last. You're at an event with a concentrated population of creative minds and people who can make that creativity come to life on screen. Celebrate the fact that you took the initiative to go or got the invite to get there.
Reminder: watch some films. Ask the person next to you what they thought.
Creative freedom grows stronger when your business foundations are clear.
Share this with a friend or collaborator building their next pitch, deck, or deal.
Find more strategy notes in Your Story, Your Business or explore how we support individuals and businesses through our Business Affairs page.
