Target your networking for blockbuster results

By Nicole Zerillo | Special to amNewYork

October 1, 2007

Through October 14, the New York Film Festival will run a lineup of 28 films at Frederick P. Rose Hall, home of jazz at Lincoln Center. Unlike other premieres, ruled by fashion stylists and actor shenanigans, the focus will be on the real stars: The directors.

With panel discussions and director dialogues, close encounters with Hollywood's biggest bold face names often translate into long lines and singular networking opportunities for would-be filmmakers.

While the Film Festival is hardly a job fair, it is an event that draws a variety of industry professionals together to celebrate the craft of movie-making. As in any professional field, networking is about visibility and making the right contacts. The more specialized an event is in a particular field, the more opportunities for networking.

"Don't text people on your cell phone or munch on Skittles," advises Lindsey Pollack, career expert and author of "Getting from College to Career."

Instead stay focused, particularly when you're waiting on line or for the event to start, since it's an excellent way to fill dead time.

If you spot one of your idols, introduce yourself and carry on a conversation about what interests you. You're there to meet people, learn about different aspects of the business and maybe get your toe in the door of a few companies, not make a hard sell for an immediate job placement.

Also, focus on making a few, meaningful connections, rather than collecting a whole rolodex of business cards. It's difficult to follow through when you don't remember who you were speaking to. Keep in mind, meaningful does not mean regaling your newly-made acquaintance with your desperation to land a job. Instead, use the opportunity to express your passion and commitment to your profession, as well as a genuine interest in what the other person is doing professionally.

Remember, networking is all about reciprocity, so pay attention and "always offer to help the other person first to show you understand that networking has to be mutually beneficial," said Pollack. Even if you currently have no connections within the industry, offering to keep your eyes peeled can be enough, at least in the moment.

Finally, don't forget to follow-up. You never know what opportunities your contact may come across that seem perfect for the fascinating person they met a few nights ago.