Networking Letters

1. Make it Professional. Like the resume, a networking letter is a way to introduce yourself to people in the industry; and even if you aren't one yet, you want them to think of you as a professional. It is important to make sure the letter is clean, clear, and concise, and that there are no typographical errors in it. Also, use good quality paper and a laser printer.
2. Remember the purpose of a networking letter. These letters are used to gain information, advice, and referrals, not to get a job. Never send your resume with a networking letter because it sends a wrong message that you are asking for a job and lessens the effectiveness of your letter.
3. The most effective networking letters are based on referrals. If you are writing at someone's suggestion, be sure to say so up front. If you don't have a referral, make a logical connection between you and the recipient in your opening paragraph. Try to make this warm and personal and as professional as possible.
4. Tell the Truth. Like the resume, and everything else, you need to be completely honest when you approach someone for information and advice.
5. Include an action statement at the end of your letter. Don't expect anyone to call you after receiving your networking letter. You're going to have to make the call, and you should state in your letter when you will do so. So many times I have heard producers receiving lots of letters from newcomers, but rarely do they receive follow up calls. It's important that you make that call. Just mark your calendar a week from the letter being sent out to make your call(s).
6. Always follow up. If you've said you're going to call, do it, and do it when you said you would.

The following are two sample networking letters -- the first in which the writer has been referred to the recipient and the second in which he has not.

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Sample Networking Letter, With a Referral

213 Central Street
Hometown, USA

October 1, 2001

Clay Smith
LIVING IT UP Productions
5555 Showbiz Street
Hollywood, CA 91774

Dear Mr. Smith:

Kenny Hopper suggested that I write to you in regard to my strong interest in being a film makeup artist. Mr. Hopper told me that you are one of the leading experts in this growing field, and he thought you would be a good person to give me some career advise.

I have had two college semesters of experience in theater makeup but none thus far in films. I have a particular interest in special effects makeup and wish to develop my skills in that area.

I will be in southern California next month and am hoping that it might be possible for us to meet briefly. I am certain your counsel would be of tremendous advantage as I begin looking for opportunities; I will call your office next week to see if your schedule permits such a meeting.

Sincerely,

Helen Borger

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Sample Networking Letter, Without Referral

5801 Starting Way
Hometown, USA

October 1, 2001

Kathy Keppler
Happy Days Productions
20034 Hollywood Blvd.
Hollywood, CA 90029

Dear Ms. Keppler:

I am writing to you because I was very impressed with your special effects makeup in the recent film Scary Movie II, and am interested in meeting with you and learning more about your work.

I have am extensive background experience in theater makeup and have also worked in film production as a makeup artist, although my experience has been limited to commercials. This experience has led me to decide to begin a career in film as a makeup assistant.

However, before I begin seeking work I feel I must talk to people with makeup experience in films, and I am hoping you can assist me in this regard. I will be in the Los Angeles area next month and am hoping it might be possible for us to meet briefly. I will call you next week to see if your schedule permits such a meeting.

Sincerely,

Bob Hardy