Marketing Yourself and Your Talent

Throughout your career in the arts, you will need to convince people not only that you have valuable skills and talents but also that you are sufficiently motivated to get the job done well and that you will fit in with the people with whom you will be working.

Whether you are meeting with a casting director about a part in a play or a film, trying to convince a gallery director to show your work, or interviewing for a job with a prestigious nonprofit organization, your self-marketing skills will ultimately do the persuading. Potential employers tend to form opinions shortly after meeting you. Keeping the following points in mind can help you make a good impression and get the results you want.

Be Prepared

The questions you ask will indicate whether you are interested and can handle the work. In the unlikely event that the person you are meeting covers all of your questions, you can say that and ask for more details about one or two of the topics.

Present Yourself Well

Most people appreciate or expect a firm, friendly handshake when they meet someone new. Smiling also shows your interest and demonstrates that you are friendly. Even if the other person does not smile, you can.

Maintaining eye contact indicates to people that you are listening to them, interested in them, and friendly. Focus on them when they talk. When you talk, look at them. This will give you an idea of how the person is receiving what you are saying.

Be courteous to everyone you meet. You may never have to see some people again, but they may talk about you with other people you will need to meet down the road.

Of course, dressing neatly and appropriately is always going to make a good impression.

Stand out from the Crowd

Know Your Audience

Let this person direct you on how to proceed. Watch body language (e.g., eye contact, smiles, gestures) to see if he or she wants a different response or likes what you have to say.

You do not necessarily have to do most of the talking. Allow people to tell you about the work and the organization; do not feel like you have to jump in. You can collect important information, and those you meet will feel that you are genuinely interested in them and their work. If the time is right, ask people about their work. People feel flattered and respected when others, especially people who have never met them, show interest in their lives.