Using Virtual Events to Grow Your Community of Contacts
Even though Hollywood is starting to open up again post-pandemic, virtual events aren’t going away anytime soon. I suspect they’re going to be an important part of the “new normal”. That being said, just because you’re connecting with folks “online” doesn’t make it any less daunting than a face-to-face interaction. So, now’s the time to figure out how to get yourself out there online and navigate these events productively.
Whether it’s a Q&A with a legendary screenwriter, or a film festival panel with a director you’d love to work with one day - virtual events can be a great way to connect with industry peers and heavy-hitters, sharpen your skills, and access invaluable experience and knowledge without having to leave your living room.
So, how do you make the most of these online interactions? Here are 6 ways to turn your next virtual event into a networking (although I much prefer the term “connecting”) opportunity worth logging on for.
1. Log on with an open mind
Sometimes you might look up a virtual event and assume the discussion topic or the experience of the panelists doesn’t relate directly to your career - and you might be right, but you might also be dead wrong. Maybe your goal is writing comedy, but you log-on to a panel about sci-fi and learn some sage advice about structure from an experienced writer. Or maybe you solely write features but take a chance on a virtual round table about TV pilots and discover a literary manager you’ve been dying to connect with is one of the speakers. Go into every virtual event with an open mind, this business is forever changing and the lessons for a writer to learn are endless. That said, if you really don’t connect with a virtual event (especially if you’re just participating as an audience member), you can just politely “log off” - that’s the beauty of an online event.
2. Do your research
If you’re planning to attend an online event where they take questions from the “audience”, like a roundtable discussion or a Q&A, take the time to Google the guest speakers beforehand. You might discover a producer or executive used to work for a company you have a personal connection to, or a director or writer worked on the show you just binged on Netflix. Doing this will help you come up with questions that directly relates to their experience. Think about it, if you ask a broad question like, ‘Can you tell us how you became successful?’ you’re going to get a broad answer. Whereas if you come up with a specific question that’s centered around their credits, chances are you’re going to get a richer answer and overall virtual experience. I’ve been on lots of panels and I notice when someone has done their research and knows my background. It makes them stand out. Which brings me to my next point —
3. Don’t be afraid to ask questions
Even though an event is virtual, it doesn’t mean it’s not intimidating. In any group situation it’s easy to feel pressure to ask the “right questions” or to impress the panelists or other attendees. Try writing down any questions you genuinely want to know before the panel. Sometimes I write down a question exactly how I want to say it out loud - that way I feel more prepared to actually ask it during the event because I can just read it off the page. Who knows, maybe your brilliant, well-prepared question is the one that really cracks open the conversation (the other attendees can thank you later).
4. Be aware of the topic focus
Nothing is more annoying than attending a Q&A on a specific topic, only to have all the questions asked be completely irrelevant. You would be surprised how many people ask, “How do I land an agent?” or “How can I get into a writers room?” at say, a panel on how to market your short film. Don’t be that person. Sure the panelists might have some great advice about reps and writers rooms but a question out of left field derails the discussion. When crafting your questions beforehand, stay aware of the focus of the topic so whatever you ask adds to the conversation and keeps the flow going.
5. Be ready to be on screen
It might sound obvious, but make sure you and your space are presentable. Look as professional as you would at an in-person event. Comb your hair, clear the clutter out of the background, and make sure your audio and video are working pre-event so that there are no surprises. If you do choose to ask a question, try to be clear and succinct. You never know who’s going to remember you (see above) or if you’ll cross paths again with the panelists - Hollywood is smaller than you think.
6. Breakout rooms and chat rooms
Usually the best networking opportunities at virtual events happen in the breakout rooms and chat rooms pre or post event. Sometimes you’ll get lucky and an established rep or producer will be in the chat room with you but, if nothing else, it’s a great way to meet fellow writers, emerging directors, and up-and-coming assistants. When most people dream of their “big break” they think of it coming from a Showrunner or agent, but you would be surprised how often career opportunities come from your peers. Inside tip: Don’t monopolize the conversation! I’ve seen that happen a number of times and it’s annoying, so be mindful of giving everyone else in the room a chance to talk.
What are your best tips to prepare for a virtual event or Zoom meeting? Let me know @CaroleKirsch!