Notes

Networking Notes
https://docs.google.com/file/d/0BztHuML_19mKTjkxNUhuVVFZZFk/edit

Demo Notes
https://docs.google.com/file/d/0BztHuML_19mKRnZVREZiUW9YZWM/edit

How to Network: Key points and tips!

• What ONE thing would you want the world to know about you?
• The importance of Networking are to obtain resources, building alliances, marketing (freely!) yourself and skills, and helping others so that they will later help you.
• Great 1st Impression! (You only get one 1st Impression so make it count!) Research the people and the venue whether it’s for a networking event, informational interview, Conference, Expo, job interview, or any other venue.
• WATCH YOUR MANNERISMS!: Like table manners, eye contact, sitting properly, addressing people, talking to people, and talking in a group setting (among other things)
• Learn you’re networking script: Know what to say and how to say it! When introducing yourself give you 15sec elevator pitch: Who you are, What you do, and what your passionate about! EX. My name is Lois Harris, I'm an Animator and I'm in love with Animation and (emerging) technologies! If they are interesting (they’ll ask you more questions or are engaged) then give the 3min speech.
• Practice your performance! If you’re shy or nervous practice what you’re going to say with friends or strangers (Strangers is a good idea because you could meet a great contact that way!). If it’s a phone call. Call your friends and leave a message, have them review and give feedback.
• Be a good talker and a great LISTENER! Often times when others are talking you are only partially listening, you are already thinking about what you’re going to say. Instead listen fully and respond accordingly.
• Develop a Resource BINDER: You never know who you’re going to meet so you better be prepared! Have a binder of Companies (Crafty;Prop places; etc) people you've worked with, Great locations (Maps), Actors you love (headshots/resumes)
• Travel with professional tools: Business card, a professional pen, expanding folder, notebook, briefcase or laptop bag, a few copies of your demo reel, etc.
• Set up meetings with key staff. "The most powerful person in a company is the secretary (Personal Assistant)!" They know everything that is going on in the business (either more than or just as much as the VP or Prez.) and the gossip of the people.
• Join Social related associations, clubs, or organization. Don't stick to just your field, branch out! Join a book club or volunteer. You never know how you’re going to meet and how they might help you.
• Don't be imposing! Don't hover around them, don't follow them, and don't act like a fan! Act like a professional, act like you mean business!
• Dress to IMPRESS!
• "Um" is not a word! Using like a lot is just as bad! It shows you have little confidence. ACT confident!
• Body effects: A smile and a strong/firm handshake go a long way! Know your body language! It's the first thing people will notice about you. Good posture helps too!
• Be eye catching! Dress well, look well! Look professional or at least look like you care! Not everyone cares for the business-look but dressing business casual is still effective!
• Know your work/program (Knowledge is stimulating!)
• Be a social cheerleader! Talk to people! If you love what you do then talking shouldn't be that hard just talk about that! :D
• Understand "others" Preconceived Notions

Also! When you’re talking to others, DON'T focus the conversation on you and how they can help you! Make the conversation about them and what you can do for them! EX. If I'm talking to an Executive at a Production House and I want to work there as an Animator (they have an animation or VFX department) then I talk about what we are both interested in FILMS or PRODUCTION or anything they like and then after a good conversation with them...BAM! We're talking about animation how I can improve (show my work, give them a demo reel THEIR company's VFX or animation department. I still make it about them but at the same time helping myself!)

 

INFORMATIONAL INTERVIEWS!

Have 5 to 8 questions. Last question should be something like this: "Who do you recommend for more insight into the business?" or "Do you have recommendations or things I should ask or know?" or "What are the most important points you want to emphasize?"

 

Breaking the Ice: When approaching someone to have an informational interview ask: Hi! I'm ______. I'm exploring the Industry and would like to have lunch/coffee/talk with you about _______ i.e. ADing, Editing a feature, an animation production.

If it’s an email, end it with: Attached is my resume as a way of introduction.

 

 

"Shoot for the moon even if you miss you will still land among the stars!"

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

How to put together a Good Demo Reel: Tips

• Research the company to know what they are looking for.
• 2 mins in length regardless of experience: include links to your short films.
• know good  from bad > Can judge right away > don’t need to show it over and over again – have variety!
• Give a flare if you only have college level work.  Offer creative spins to simple projects like a ball bounce.
• Variety starts with: having both extremes like:
• Action – acting
• Male – female
• Human – animal
• Comedy – drama
 
• Know body mechanics! Know your “ings” killing, punching, walking, and so on
• Focus, captivate, don’t spend too much time on titles
• Your reel should be as good as any short you do.
• Work on audio: keep it consist – keep in mind they won’t have a rewind button, they won’t look at it again.
• Let them know what you did on the project
• Demo reels are only as good as the worst thing on them. UPDATE!
• It represents a film, start big! Finish big!
• Don’t steal work!!
• Keep in touch! Check back every once in awhile to keep track of what’s going on if there is a new project or something.
• Take command of animation principles
• Think cinematically
• Give it to friends to review!
• Have multiple skills, know the language of film!