Who Are The Real Game Industry Networkers?

"Good networking should be like kudzu...it should grow at the mere thought of it and attach to everything in its path."

People who are great networkers aren't necessarily the hi viz sorts that you'd think you'd want in your network. They are simply good at being interested in other people. They are problem solvers who are quick to introduce others and visualize how someone can utilize another person's skills and assets.

In the games industry, you gotta work your network like a hungry actor. I'm always on the hunt for media sources that like to collaborate on events and are interested in reviews. I like meeting well-credentialed developers, business strategists who have some great client stories, and industry vendors with a unique service. I share often from my network and expect the same in return. I generally get it, too. I'm blessed with an extremely diverse network - most of whom I can count on to help me with my own projects, but also, will help me with client projects.

There are some standouts that I'd like to share as my own examples of great networkers.

Rohan Crawford has introduced me to probably a half-dozen industry types, mostly out of the Atlanta area, giving me the opp to pitch a proposal to some important industry leaders. His "help" button seems to always be on. I've sent Rohan leads, networking intros, and even some publicity over the last year. Seems like we always know when each other needs a networking convo.

Ross Furman and the gang at SFX-360.com are just phenomenal networkers. There's the popular Gamers Gone Wild parties they produce in association with major industry events and their tireless daily social media interaction. For me,this year,they co-hosted a tweet-up at E3 that helped me cement a client relationship. They have graciously accepted my requests for reviews and have introduced me to gamer celebs that I have utilized in working with clients and have interviewed for major industry publications. They are what every media organization should be - as good at building the connections that create publicity events as they are at covering them.

Lois Eiler aka @ijunglejane and I practically became joined at the hip during E3 2010. Lo has utilized her considerable "liaison" abilities to help me roller skate into several good opportunities and I've shot a few leads her way, as well. We have worked together on several projects now - most recently for CTA Digital. Her strong connections in the "mommy" market I have found useful on my own projects. Always willing to share from her network, she is one professional to have on your side.

Kartik S - my buddy from PunFlay - apps for kids is a rare young marketing head that has boundless networking energy. Combined with a sincerity that is sadly lacking in most marcomm departments, Kartik really gets to know you and actually looks for ways to help. There probably isn't anyone else in the industry that knows my own children by name. He does. Given Kartik's focus with kids apps, he has undeniably one of the best mommy/family networks and followings you're going to find. He has connected me to mommy bloggers for at least a couple of clients. And, I'll be back at him again soon for more of the same.

Gerard Williams aka Hip Hop Gamer, Rob Paz aka SFX_Prod1gy_X, and Raheem Jarbo aka Random Beats are gamer celebrities that I've connected with for a couple of client projects and interviewed for articles. I've had occasion to ask each for special high viz assistance and media contacts, and without hesitation, my request was granted. Talent, great hearts, and that all-important skill of follow-through...I will always be on the look-out for these guys.

Derek Nolan of 2Old2Play.com got me into Michael Pachter's Networking Party at E3 2010. Derek says he got on Pachter's radar when he wrote a posting that related to something Pachter had written -- I'm guessing even Pachter likes to keep an eye out for his own viz. Anyway - it was at this event that I met CEO of Seahorn Capital Group, Marc Jackson, Hip Hop Gamer, Jon Gagnon, Director of Arsenal Industries, which is now a Google TV developer, and Pachter, himself. I do so wearing an 2Old2Play nametag, of course. Derek's willingness to share this opportunity (and the fact that I think he hangs out with cool gamers that at aren't really 2 Old 2 Play) has earned him my Great Games Networker Badge.

Ryan Paul Thompson is a PR type with strong social media skills whom I met while he was working at the Dalton Agency in Florida. At E3, Ryan actually found and brought over to me a couple of talented guys from Ignition that had started their own company, Trendy Entertainment. He also introduced me to a PR gal at Ignition. When we're in the zone, Ryan and I toss contacts back and forth like ping pong. Ryan's natural tenacity in making high level connections for others reminds me of the moment they let the greyhounds loose on the track. He knows nothing else but what he's after.

These are just a few of the great networkers I know. I wanted you to know these people for the types of networking examples they provide. I'm hoping this not only inspires you to connect with them but also to reach out to others and respond to people in a way that sets you apart from the rest.

The games industry has plenty of "personalities;" what it needs more of are great networkers.