Networking Strategies for Remote Assistants (and everyone else)

Working remotely in post-production has a lot of advantages —but networking definitely isn't one of them. In traditional production hubs, assistant editors, editors, producers, and crew would meet naturally in the halls or over lunch, and there were actually in-person screenings!

Remote work erases those casual encounters, and that’s a big loss — especially for people early in their careers. They at a huge disadvantage working remotely since they miss out on all that face to face time that can lead to new opportunities, building ties with all the other freelancers on whatever job they are currently on.

I love working remotely, but it definitely impacts the kind of day-to-day networking that we all need to strengthen connections, make new ones, and find the next great gig. 

You can’t afford to just “hunker down and do a great job” anymore. Full disclosure: that’s mostly what I did early on — and I wish I had done more of what I'm suggesting here.

Here’s why remote networking matters, and some concrete networking strategies ideas for building real connections even when everyone’s working from different living rooms.

Concrete Networking Strategies for Remote Post-Production Work

Beyond the basic “go to industry events and talk to people” advice, here are practical things you can do during your current remote job to build your network for the future:

✂️ 1. Reach Out Proactively

Most editors I know are introverted. (It’s part of the job description.)

If you’re an assistant, reach out to them:

• Ask thoughtful questions

• Express curiosity about editing theory

• Request permission to look at rough cuts

• Start a correspondence about storytelling approaches

(Trust me — many editors would love to talk shop if someone else initiates.)

✂️ 2. Make One Extra Connection Every Day

Even if you’re overwhelmed, commit to a few moments each day to reach out to someone on your project team —about something not immediately connected to today’s deadline.

Small, regular touches build relationships over time.

✂️ 3. Compliment Good Work You Notice

Saw a great shot? A beautifully covered scene? Email the cameraperson or the producer and say so.

Start with sincere praise — then ask a thoughtful question to keep the conversation alive.

People remember genuine appreciation.

✂️ 4. Initiate Career Conversations

Ask the producer (or editor, or showrunner):

• How did they get their start?

• What was their first big break?

• What advice would they give someone in your role?

Research their credits first so you can have a real conversation.

✂️ 5. Don't Wait for Mentorship — Ask for It

If you’re hoping someone will mentor you...say so. Ask if they’d be willing to offer occasional advice. Ask if you can schedule a 15-minute career chat. Frame it as a favor — most people will be flattered, not annoyed.

✂️ 6. Thank the People Who Hired You

Midway through the project, email the person who hired you (or better yet, call them):

• Thank them for hiring you

• Say how much you’re enjoying the project

• Mention what you’ve learned so far

Kindness sticks in memory — and hiring is often about who you enjoyed working with.

✂️ 7. Start Conversations in Slack or Messaging Boards

If your team uses Slack, Teams, or another platform, use it strategically:

• Start a casual conversation about a recent documentary

• Share an industry article

• Ask what people are watching

Your goal: More people should know your name by the end of the project than did at the beginning.

✂️ 8. Close Strong: Personalized Goodbye Notes

When the project wraps:

• Email everyone you interacted with

• Mention something specific you appreciated about their work

• Express genuine hope to cross paths again

• Attach your CV

Sincerity + specific memories = you become a real person in their mind, not just a name on a credits list.

Final Thoughts: Hunker Down — But Also Reach Out

Doing great work is table stakes. Being reliable is expected. But being memorable, thoughtful, and connected is how careers grow. I wish I’d taken more of this advice myself earlier in my career. I tended to hunker down, keep my head down, and just deliver great edits.

And it worked... to a point. But in this remote era — when casual encounters are rare —intentional networking isn't optional anymore.

It’s part of the craft.