The moment you send the film to a festival address, you have already completed an important part of the work.
Until the moment your film enters the competition, you have nothing left to do but wait.
At a festival, most of us go to get a prize. The magic of the cup in the hand is important for every filmmaker. But, there is another aspect in this process that we don’t think much about but that makes all the difference in the long career path: NETWORKING.
First, we need to mention once again how important it is to participate in festivals. We encourage you to apply as much as possible, especially if your journey has recently started and you have a film festival in the region where you operate. There is no better feeling than being among people who have the same dreams as you. All experience is valuable, regardless of whether you win or not.
When you find yourself in a room with people with similar goals as you, it’s time to TALK. It would be best if you are informed about their work in advance so that you have an ‘easier way’ and the conversation comes more naturally. But, this will not be possible for every conversation. So, try to behave naturally and be yourself. Remember: communicating with new people is hard for everyone – not just for you.
Once you are there, make sure you are prepared.
Get business cards!
A business card always makes you appear differently – on a more professional level. One of the best pieces of advice I received at the beginning of my career was: people won’t remember you if you don’t stay close! This is especially true in cases where those with whom you want to keep in touch are very busy with work. Think about how many people approach them during an event – how likely are they to remember you later? Even if the impression you left was good, it is very likely that you will be forgotten before that person gets home. Who helps you in these cases? A business card. It will be there, on their work table, as a reminder of your conversation.
Don’t forget to go prepared. Keep a card close and be sure to hand it at the end of a productive conversation.
Don’t make the conversation ‘all about you’!
The great desire to create connections, sometimes makes us make mistakes during the conversation. Some people talk only about themselves, their project and their dreams – without considering that they can become annoying. Remember: the person in front of you is not there to listen to you. Ask questions, talk about their work… Everyone wants to feel valued and heard. Be careful not to be penalized by the great desire to build a relationship – if the conversation turns into a ‘monologue’ then the meeting loses its meaning.
Read between the lines: is it time to leave?
You will notice when the conversation has lost its initial energy. At this point, don’t forget to say “thank you” and leave. Don’t try to keep something alive longer than necessary. You have introduced yourself, you have shown the person in front of you who you are, you have given them a business card in case there is a possibility of cooperation, you have shown them that you know and value their work – that’s enough. In these moments, it’s time to say “thank you for your time” and leave. We know this seems like simple advice, but we’re leaving it here just in case. There is a fine line between being pleasant and sometimes annoying. Try not to pass it.
Finally, let’s remind him that you have brought a dream to life!! The story that is now appearing on the screen is created by you – isn’t this magical?! Something that didn’t exist before is now on the screen and you should be proud of this fact. The moment you are part of a festival, enjoy it! You did a great job, don’t forget to appreciate yourself for it. Reflect this energy in every meeting and get the best out of a festival. Networking is essential in growing any career – especially for young filmmakers.
