Step-By-Step Guide to Building Your Stage Management Network
The thought of networking can seem intimidating and sometimes even seem insincere, but it can be made much more enjoyable with a shift in mindset. Instead of viewing networking as a ‘what’s in it for me’ activity, think about it as an opportunity to offer your assistance or knowledge to others. This approach will not only make you feel better about networking, but it will also leave an impression on others.
To effectively network, start by thinking about what you can offer. We all have a unique set of skills or knowledge we can share, for instance, I often share my insights on personal finance – a topic I have grown to know a lot about. So, what are you proficient at? Maybe it’s something as simple as baking cookies or walking several dogs at once. You’d be surprised how helpful such information can be to others.
In some cases, all you need to offer is your attention. Being present and focused during a conversation can leave a lasting impression. This means whenever you’re talking to someone and your phone buzzes, ignore it. The value of genuine, undistracted communication cannot be overstated.
Secondly, take advantage of your natural strengths at networking events. For example, offering to volunteer at an event can be an easy way to break the ice and have a chat with fellow participants. Recognizing and utilizing your distinct qualities can significantly enhance your networking experience.
Thirdly, remember to occasionally step outside your comfort zone. There’s a networking event I attend where attendees have to swap conversation partners every five minutes – it’s honestly very daunting for me. Yet, the experience is overall beneficial, as it lets me meet plenty of fascinating individuals and improves my conversation skills.
Finally, always keep in mind what you’re hoping to achieve from networking. This might sound contrary to my earlier advice about offering rather than taking, but having clear goals steers you towards your ultimate aspirations.
Perhaps you dream of working on Broadway or stage managing for dance productions. While the chances are slim that you’ll immediately locate the perfect contact at a networking event, you never know if someone could point you in the right direction or introduce you to a key individual. Therefore, be prepared to express what you’re searching for.
To make the most out of networking events, here’s a few tips:
1. Personalize your nametag with a fun fact about yourself — it’s a great conversation starter.
2. In queues, aim to chat with at least one other person.
3. Even though we live in a digital age, business cards are still useful.
4. After the event, it’s important to follow up with those you met. A simple email to remind them about the conversation you had will go a long way.
For more networking opportunities, join relevant associations or groups online. Facebook has several groups for stage managers that might help. Or, consider joining the Stage Managers’ Association for in-person meetups. They host lots of networking events annually, especially in big cities.
Another rich networking avenue is the Broadway Stage Management Symposium, an annual event offering a mixture of learning and networking opportunities.
So remember, networking isn’t just about what you can gain — it’s also about what you can contribute. I hope these tips ease your way into networking, providing a positive experience that helps you score your dream job or project.