Week 8 EOC: The Five Networking Events I Need To Attend

Getting into the film industry is tough. Of course, you can work your way up, on your own, and make something extraordinary enough to get attention. However, the best way to get started and get you known in the industry is simply by making connections. Essentially, that is what the industry is all about; finding and making connections with people that are set out to create something an audience can connect with. And, what better place to make connections than by networking! Networking events are great places to not only meet fellow colleagues that have the same passion as you, but also professionals that do the work you want to do.

Because making connections is so important in order to progress in the film industry, I plan to attend many networking events to expand my connections to people in the industry. I have five main events I will attend, they are:

1.       NAB Show

2.       CES Convention

3.       Sundance Film Festival

4.       Festival de Cannes

5.       Toronto International Film Festival

NAB Show is a convention by the National Association for Broadcasters. With every aspect of the industry including Broadcast, Digital Media, Film, Entertainment, Telecom, Post-Production, Education, etc. being represented, NAB allows attendees to experiences and witness emerging technologies and the latest innovations.

The CES convention is similar to NAB in that it exhibits the most relevant and latest innovation in technology however; CES goes beyond the realms of broadcasting and applies its showcase to every aspect of technology for the electronic industry which overlooks and encompasses all other industries.

Sundance, Cannes, and the Toronto International Film Festivals are the most high profile and highly influential festivals. They strive to recognize indie film and embrace new, creative movements in cinema, and are overall inspiring. Going into the film industry, I feel that these five events are crucial for me to attend if I intend to make any lasting, memorable, and progressive connections.