Sorna Taghizadeh

Evidence of Learning

Date: March 31st, 2017

Subject: TV/News Production

Source: DeBaise,Colleen."7TipsforNetworking."Entrepreneur.N.p.,03May2012.Web.31

Mar.2017.<https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/223468>.

Analysis:

Being able to network is a very important skill in any industry but especially in the

entertainment industry. For this reason I read an article that provided me with tips on

networking. The article provided me with beneficial tips that I will be sure to use to get ahead in

this industry and in my ism journey.

One of the first tips mentioned is to resist the urge to arrive late. Although I think this tip

is obvious, the author, DeBaise, mentions that it is better to get there when it is calmer with less

people. That way the attendees will not be separated into groups yet and it is easier to find

people who dont have conversation partners yet. Networking will be easier when it is not as

crowded because there will be people available to listen and talk to. Another tip was to ask easy

questions to get a conversation started. You shouldnt wait for someone to approach you. When

you see someone who is not having a conversation, walk up and ask things like, May I join

you? or ask them what brings them to the event. Make sure to listen closely to their replies as

this can be a great way to get to know a person and network.

Another tip is ditch the sales pitch. Networking is about building relationships. Try to

keep the conversation light and informal. The point is to get the conversation going; people are

more likely to partner with you or do business with those who bring enjoyable company. Also be

ready with a easy description of your company if asked about your product or service. Be able

to easily pull things off a mental list and bring them into the conversation.
Sorna Taghizadeh

An important tip she gave was to be sure to share your passion. Try to win people over

with the enthusiasm you have for your product or service. Being able to leave a lasting

impression by giving a story about why you were inspired is very beneficial to get more contacts.

Also, talking about your passion can get others to talk about theirs. When other people share

their passions, it can create a meaningful two-way conversation. While having a conversation be

sure to smile. Although it is simple, it is often overlooked. Smiling can help put you at ease

while also making you look more inviting to others. It is important to smile while moving onto

your next conversation or entering the room.

Debaise gave some more tips on networking like making sure not to hijack the

conversation. Make sure you give other people the chance to talk. Successful networkers can

make other people feel special. Repeat their name, have good eye contact and be sure to listen

intently. Try to suggest topics that are easy to talk. Something she said that I will try to stick by is

to, be a conversationalist, not a talker. This is important to abide by in both ISM and in my

future.

The last tip she gave was to remember to follow up. Networking is where a good

conversation begins, not ends. If the conversation went well, ask your conversation partner the

best way to stay in touch and remain in contact. Get in touch with them within 48 hours of the

event to show you actually interested and try to reference something you talked about so your

contact can recall who you are.

I will be sure to use the tips I learned in and out of ISM as they are very helpful and can

be used in everyday life.