entertainment industry coach question 689:What's the best way to approach referrals?

The actual question read: I am a set photographer in the film and television industry. I was recently given the email and telephone contact for two people who hire set photographers for reality television shows. How do you think the best way to approach them is? Since they probably get contacted by new people all the time.

Yes, when people are in the position to hire, they tend to get contacted by people all of the time. However, the majority of these contacts are cold calls. YOU have referrals. Therefore, the professional way to approach them is to call and say, "Hi (insert their name), my name is (insert your name), and I was referred to you by (insert referral's name) he/she thought the two of us would hit it off and should connect. Do you have time for a coffee or if you're in production, perhaps I could stop by set and just observe. I'l be happy to sign the confidentiality agreement. I enjoy doing set visits and getting to see the atmosphere of the different shows."

The person should ask what you do and then you can share. But if the person does not, don't reveal it yet. Wait until you get to meet. Bring your book or reel (out of sight) so you're ready if you're asked to share it.

www.theGreenlightCoach.com FIND ME

www.twitter.com/GreenlightCoachFOLLOW ME

www.facebook.com/TheGreenlightCoachLIKE ME

www.TheGreenlightMentorProgram.comJOIN ME

For more tips and articles by top entertainment industry career coach, The Greenlight Coach, visitwww.TheGreenlightCoachBlog.com

To stay current on The Greenlight Coach's speaking engagements, recommendations, and work success articles, sign up for her free newsletter at the top of the page and get a great bonus 1-hour MP3 on creating powerful business partnerships when you do!

Question 1: How to generate Union work without Union contacts

Answer: In general- you don't.  If you want to work union jobs, it's imperative that you have relationships with people who hire union members.  I have clients who have been working non-union for over 20 years.  When I look at their list of contacts, everyone they know is non-union.  

The good news is, at least you know what's missing.  Create a target list of people who can hire you for the types of union jobs you want. Don't concern yourself with "how" you're going to meet them.  At this point, just become aware of who they are.

On today's teleseminar I'll be talking about how to figure out who you need to know and the importance of researching your targets.  We'll also cover where and how to research them.

To hear the archives and get on the live calls, sign up at www.TheGreenlightCoach.com and click on the And...Action! Teleseminar series.

To your success... 

For more tips and articles by the Greenlight Coach, visit www.TheGreenlightCoachBlog.com