A convention is a great place to meet new people, make business contacts, and learn about the industry you want to get into. However, cons are supposed to be fun, and for some people, “networking” means “crisis” more than “opportunity.” If you’re the sort of person who looks at networking or other career-related activities as a reason to hide inside a mech suit and never come out, fear not. It IS possible to enjoy yourself and network at the same con.
1. Compartmentalize
Some folks enjoy networking. These are fully integrated progeeks that can hop from panel to panel, talking to anyone, and having a great time. If that’s not you, then divide your time. Devote some of your time to networking and some to just having fun. If networking makes you feel nervous or bored, then there’s no point in trying to keep it up all day or all weekend. Just do a little and get it over with. As time goes by, you may learn to relax and have fun even when you’re in Business Mode. And if you don’t, you’ll still be okay because you’ll have Fun Time set aside.
2. Avoid The Crowds
As soon as you get to the con, have a look at that schedule. Somewhere in there should be a ZOMG POPULAR event that you don’t particularly care about. Let’s say it’s a gameshow about a series you don’t like, or a meet-and-greet with an actor you don’t care for. Perfect. Look at what else is going on in that timeslot, and choose a networking opportunity from those events. Chances are, while the unwashed masses are trying to get their picture taken with Leonard Nimoy, you can find a smaller group of unwashed people to talk to. Smaller group = less intimidation. And less smell.
3. Cosplay Professionalism
Following that last point, make sure you look (and smell) good. Of course you are familiar with the 6-2-1 Rule.* Of course you take good care of yourself, but you may want to time it such that you are freshest when going to your Networking Time. Also, if you are cosplaying, this gives you a chance to go back to your room to change into normal clothes. Networking is networking; if you wouldn’t wear a sailor fuku to a regular business meetup, then don’t wear it while networking at a con.
There are two exceptions to this. One, if your desired career is related to sewing, then by all means feel free to rock your homemade kimono. Two is when you’re networking with other fans. Which brings me to my next point…
4. Make New Friends
When networking at a con, don’t assume that the only people who can help you are special guests. The truth is, there are many people who you should get to know. They could be casual panelists, or even just other fans in the hall. They are drawn to the con for the same reasons as you, so you will find things to talk about. Don’t be shy. Just say hello. A good icebreaker is to compliment their costume or make a comment on the series whose panel at which you meet. Congoers are enthusiastic and creative people, so why not learn from each other?
5. Artists’ Alley is your Ally
Artists are a special breed. One who has secured a table in Artists’ Alley has excellent time management skills** in addition to their talents. They are ambitious, and perhaps even successful in using their passion to make money. In other words, Artists’ Alley is full of progeeks. Go say hi. And, if you can, buy something to help an otaku out.
6. Don’t Get Starstruck
If you are going to meet a guest in a professional context, may I recommend choosing one who is not quite so famous yet. If you want to meet a comic creator, go to a panel for a local artist. J Michael Straczynski doesn’t have time to talk to you. It’s not that he doesn’t want to, but there you’d be just another face in the crowd.*** Go to the big events as a fan. Go to the small events as a progeek. Besides, you want to look professional, right? You can’t look professional if you’re giggling that ZOMG VIC MIGNOGNA MADE EYE CONTACT WITH ME!
7. Give Yourself Time
Aim to have those Networking Times scheduled with plenty of buffer time afterwards. You don’t want to have to leave a beneficial conversation because you have to meet your friends or host a panel. It’s not always possible to plan things out so perfectly, but if you have the option, try to leave yourself as much time as possible.
8. Be Prepared
Of course you are doing your best to plan things out, but sometimes an opportunity presents itself and you just have to take it. Therefore, even when you’re on your Fun Time, keep a couple of business cards, a pen, and a notepad with you. Just, uh, try not to let anyone see where you had to pull them out from if you’re cosplaying Lum.****
Good luck, and happy networking.
*For every 24 hours, get a minimum of 6 hours of sleep, 2 meals of actual food, and 1 shower. You hear that? SHOWER!
**And luck.
***And some of that crowd does not respect the 6-2-1 Rule.
****In the boots. Why, what did you think I meant?
-Tamara Hecht