Screen Industry Networking for Introverts

5th December 2024

“It’s not what you know – but who you know”.

This adage gets thrown around and we all know there’s some truth to it. Networking and building relationships is so important in an industry which is built on teams.

So what do you do if you’re an introvert? (like certain members of the Peachy team 🙋‍♀️)!  Here are some tried-and-true tips we have used:

1)  Choose your networking events wisely.

Will it be an intimate gathering or a Screen Forever type event? Both have their pros and cons. You don’t need to feel pressure to go to everything, just choose one or two which work the best for you. Events with breakaway groups can be an easier way to meet people and find things in common. There are lots of role specific industry groups like Screen Vixens or the ACS that can help you expand your community and make those big industry gatherings a little less scary!

2) Take a friend!

Going with a wingwoman or a wingman can take the anxiety out of entering the networking event. Be sure not to stick with them the whole time though (kinda cheating!), but it can be comforting to meet others and then check back in with each other throughout the event.

3) Ask questions.

Ask people about themselves – we’re all passionate about the industry we work in and often people are more than happy to chat about their experiences and tell you their story. With a few key questions memorised you can both learn something new and make others feel comfortable.

4) Don’t think of it as networking.

Think of it as making friends. Everyone hates networking. Go with the intention of meeting people who are into the same stuff as you, and potentially making new friends. If you come away from a networking event with one new friendship/relationship, this is success!

5) Follow up afterwards.

Wish you could have spent more time with someone? Really enjoyed a conversation you had with someone else? Find them on LinkedIN or Instagram and let them know. This is the key to networking (and it’s done from the comfort of your own home, Introverts!). Follow up as this lays the foundation for a potential new relationship.