Relationships

In Corporate America, I often heard of the importance of developing relationships. The whole idea of passing out business cards, newtworking and cultivating relationships with people I didnt know was always came across as being fake to me.
However, it doesnt have to be that way. Networking with people that have the same mind set, or who has an idea on how to get you were you want to go is really the basis of any relationship business or otherwise. And the same is true for the arts. Sometimes as Artists we forget the “business” of “show business”. It takes a lot of effort and time to build relationships but if done properly, its longevity can reap many benefits.
A new relationship may come in many faces such as a Casting Director, Director, Writer or another Actor. Developing a relationship with someone who can, and more importantly is willing to keep you abreast of what is going on in the industry, bring you in for readings, workshops, and of course eventually hire you. This provides an opportunity for work, and allows both parties to work with someone they know and trust.
At the same time, the way you end a relationship is just as important as the building process. Do your best not to let things end on a bad note. Like the old saying goes “don’t burn your bridges”.