Networking is something people seem to love or hate. I personally enjoy networking and meeting new people. There are some things I've been seeing Actors do (and not do) at networking events, and I'd like to share them with you.
Don't bring copies of your headshot and/or resume. Unless it SPECIFIES to bring your headshot and/or resume - DON'T! It can be a real pain for you and others to carry them around. Those items are only really needed for auditions and specific industry events where Actors are going to be meeting and auditioning for companies.
Don't expect to be "discovered" at these events. I see many Actors eager and excited about the possibility of meeting a Director or Producer with this hopefully idea that they'll want to cast them in their next project. The truth is, Directors and producers are people too. They may be in the middle of something or not sure what their next project is.
Don't push people to give you THEIR information. Connect with them as people. You can ask if they have a business card OR if you can connect with them on social media or through their website. Definitely give them your information in case they'd like to connect and stay in touch.
Don't just talk about yourself. Ask others what they do and what they're working on. Networking is about making connections and hopefully authentic ones as well.
Don't worry about not meeting everyone. One thing I've seen is no one wears a name tag with who they are and what they do. So I've seen anxious Actors trying to size people up to figure out who they are and what they do. To be honest, people look like people. Also, if you ask someone politely if they know who is a Producer or a Director, they may be able to point someone out to you.
How do you feel about networking? Is there anything I didn't address you're curious about? Drop it in the comments or reach out to me via email.
Happy Networking!
Amelia