My most important networks

How do we define our most important networks? Surely every network is of some use or importance to us as individuals? As I began to analyse my newly formed 'network diagram', I decided that to fully illustrate this task I would count my most important, as my most currently professionally used.

1. Agent - Even while training this has been a key component in enabling me to achieve work. All closed auditions are passed through my agency, whereby they will establish whether or not I am suitable for the job. Obviously my CV and eventually myself secures the job for me, but without that initial stepping stone there is a possibility I may not even be seen. I am aware that this situation or scenario is not something that is suitable for everyone, freelance and company work are also other ways of securing work. Whilst training, and therefore maturing as a performer, my vocational college had an agency attached to it which aided us in establishing jobs throughout the entirety of our time there. Once graduating we also had the option to continue on their books, or swapping to an alternative method of sourcing work. I feel for this reason, I am more comfortable to put my trust and career choices within the hands of these types of corporations. As I have only just begun to endeavor upon the performers journey I have also found they have provided me with a sense of direction, allowing me to experience and meet people I possibly would never have been able to, whilst evidently expanding my contacts and therefore network sources. 

2. Facebook - Both on a professional and social level I have found Facebook, and other similar social networking sites, becoming ever more important as a form of contact. You find that not only can you source information from your peers within this site, but professional companies and firms are beginning to advertise auditions, vacancies and classes, making them more accessible to us as the professional and general public. Despite this newly found advertisement point of great ease for us, there are also huge set backs and dangers which follow. The initial 'social' side of Facebook is becoming more readily confused with the professional side, as previously discussed when reflecting upon Reader 1 - professional communication technology, which is presenting problems within the differing environments. We as professionals do not want prospective employers to see us in any 'unacceptable' images, or view our personal 'moaning' status updates, yet we are reluctant to give up that personal side viewable to our friends. We must simply establish which profile we are using for what and stick to it, there should be no compromise when your professional career could be at stake. 

3. Spotlight - A newly found establishment for me, linked in with my agency, it is also another means by which I can view suitable and current job updates within my field. It allows me to advertise myself professionally, whilst also keeping on top of current employment, and what is being sought after. I am still very new to this media form, but again it is proving the power of being online and submerging yourself within the internet and the sources it has to offer. The difference with spotlight, however, is that it is strictly a professionals site, to also aid your own agency in promoting you. Inclusive of this membership an updated book is published each membership year for purchase. I am still yet the reap the benefits of this site, but I am already understanding the importance.

4. Peers/Friends - Though as performer we feel self sufficient and a sense of independence, the truth of it is without this component most achievements would have been negliable. These are the people we have trained or grown up with, they constantly provide an insight into our lives and offer a sense of 'support network'. You are able to talk to or lean on them, and they likewise need you, it is a very rewarding relationship. This is also a huge group when it comes to increasing the extent of your own networks, there is always someone that know someone who can provide you with your next job or contact. In addition the advantages with this group is that any connections made are all out of good will, because you are 'friends'.

5. Teaching Staff - As I am still classed as the young performer, I am able to gain vast experiences and knowledge from the people that have been where I am endeavoring to journey. The teaching aspect also supplies you with great confidence as a person. Being able to communicate your own ideas and techniques to students of a younger age is a challenge I have found to be very trying yet satisfying. I have been able to watch and learn from those above me, constantly teaching me new ways and forms within myself. They are also generally retired professionals so can provide you with an insight into the career you wish to achieve and more often than not pass on information regarding yourself to the connections they have made throughout their professional lives.