Filmmaker's Networking Checklist

Build Genuine Relationships That Lead to Funding, Collaborations & Opportunities

Networking isn't about collecting business cards—it's about building genuine relationships with people who can help your filmmaking career.

What You Get:

This comprehensive filmmaker's networking checklist is designed to help you build intentional relationships at every stage:

✓ BEFORE THE EVENT/MEETING (Preparation is 80% of Networking)

- Research 5-10 people you want to meet (LinkedIn, IMDb, festival program)

- Identify what they care about (their last 3 projects, their mission)

- Prepare 1 genuine compliment or question about their work

- Write 2-3 one-sentence descriptions of YOUR project

- Have business cards with name, phone, email, ONE social handle

- Set 3 goals for the event (who to meet, what to ask)

✓ AT THE EVENT (Conversation Starters That Actually Work)

- Authentic questions for fellow filmmakers

- Strategic questions for producers & gatekeepers

- The 3-Part Conversation Framework (opening, listening, closing)

- Proven conversation starters that lead to real connections

✓ AFTER THE EVENT (Where Most Filmmakers Fail)

- Follow-up email template (reference-specific, NOT generic)

- How to add value with resources & introductions

- Relationship tracker to maintain your network

- 48-hour follow-up checklist

✓ BONUS: 30-DAY NETWORKING CHALLENGE

- Week-by-week action plan to build 10-15 genuine connections

- Red flags to avoid (generic pitches, transactional relationships)

- Best practices for ongoing relationship maintenance

- Monthly, quarterly, and annual relationship check-in strategies

Key Principles Inside:

- 90% of indie films happen because of who you know

- Networking is ongoing, not event-based

- Relationships compound over time

- 3 relationship categories to build (collaborators, gatekeepers, supporters)

- How to follow up when most filmmakers don't

Perfect for: Indie filmmakers, screenwriters, producers, directors, TV writers, film students, and anyone building their filmmaking career through intentional networking.