Got questions about Austin Film Meet’s Open-Mic Mixers? We got answers!
Q. How much time will I have on the mic?
A. Each speaker gets 60 seconds maximum on the mic to introduce oneself, one’s project or ask for help.
Q. How will I know when my time is up?
A. Speakers will be notified at the 45 second mark with a quick flash of light to the face. At 60 seconds, the light will remain consistent. At 70 seconds, you will be booted off the stage.
Q. How long does the mixer last?
A. The open-mic portion of the mixer typically lasts 45 minutes to an hour and a half, depending on how many people there are that night. After the open-mic, people stay and mingle for a while, usually another hour or two.
Q. Should I bring a pen and paper for taking notes?
A. Yes! The open-mic goes fast and most people say their name and contact info only once. It’s a great idea to take a notepad and pen to jot down notes as speakers introduce themselves. It is especially helpful to write notes about what the person looks like or is wearing, so you can find them easily after the open-mic is over.
Q. Do I have to sign up to speak on the open mic?
A. No. There is currently no need to sign up to speak on the open mic. Just show up and get in line before the open mic session ends.
Q. Can I go last?
A. You can try waiting until most people have gone, but there’s no way to promise you will go last. And if you wait too long, you may miss your opportunity. When it appears that all speakers have had their turn, the host will announce “last call for open mic”. This is your last chance to speak that night. If you miss the window, you’ll have to wait until next time, so don’t wait too long.
Q. What contact info should I give on the open mic?
A. The best contact info to offer on the mic is your website address where your other contact info can be found. Keep it easy to remember and easy to spell for best results. Complicated addresses and long emails usually got lost on listeners.
Q. What should I wear?
A. Anything you like but it helps people find you after the open mic if you wear something distinctive in color or print, easy to remember.
Q. Are kids welcome?
A. Any well-behaved kids involved in the film/video/entertainment community are highly encouraged to attend. It’s never too soon to learn the value of networking.
Q. Can I screen something during my turn?
A. If you wish to show off your work, the best way is bring a tablet with on stage and hold it against your chest while you speak. Please have your video cued up and playing when you step onto stage. We will not wait if you have technical difficulties. Your time starts when you step on the stage.
Q. If I forget to say something, can I go again?
A. Please practice what you’re going to say so that you don’t forget anything. Due to the large number of people who want to speak on the mic, we cannot allow 2nd turns.
Q. Should I bring business cards?
A. Yes! Business cards are your professional calling card. They are a fast, easy way to deliver the most important info. Of course, you should still come to the mixer, even if you don’t have them. You can always make some later.
Q. I am not a filmmaker, but I own a business selling camera equipment. Can I promote my business on the mic?
A. Please feel free to introduce yourself and your company and please let us know where you’re located. If you wish to offer Austin Film Meet members a discount on services or products, please contact us first so we can assist with getting your message to the widest audience possible.
Q. Can I offer a discount on my products and services on the mic?
A. Please, do not discuss pricing or discounts on the open mic unless you represent an official Austin Film Meet discount sponsor in which case we encourage you to speak on the mic about your company. Official Discount Sponsors also get twice as much time on the mic.