📬 TIFF Industry Survival Guide – Do’s & Don’ts

Whether you're a first-time attendee or a seasoned TIFF veteran, approaching each edition of the festival with fresh eyes and a clear plan can make all the difference. Here's a quick guide of essential do's and don'ts to help you get the most out of your industry experience at TIFF:

✅ DO: Set Your Festival Goals

Even if it’s not your first time, treat each year as a new and unique experience. Defining your goals, whether it’s meeting new collaborators, catching key screenings, or attending specific talks, will help you track your progress and reflect on your experience meaningfully.

❌ DON’T: Try to Do It All

TIFF is exciting, but overcommitting can lead to burnout. Make a clear plan and stick to it. Use tools like TIFFR to build your schedule and avoid stress or FOMO.

✅ DO: Personalize Your Outreach

Don't blast mass messages. Instead, craft thoughtful and tailored emails to connect with potential collaborators, directors, distributors, producers. Quality > quantity.

✅ DO: Take Breaks When You Need

Feeling overstimulated? Head to the Film Reference Library on the 4th floor of TIFF Lightbox, a quiet space to reset and recharge.

✅ DO: Network Anywhere

Opportunities are everywhere, standing in line, grabbing a drink, or chatting after a screening. Even if you’re introverted, try to spark at least one meaningful conversation each day.

❌ DON’T: Pressure Yourself to Overachieve

If you had one real conversation or learned one new thing, that’s already a successful day. Give yourself credit.

✅ DO: Eat, Hydrate, and Caffeinate

Scout the area on Day 1 for good snack spots. Stay hydrated and don’t forget to grab a Lavazza coffee at the Industry Centre!

✅ DO: Reflect Each Night

Write down quick notes about the people you met, ideas discussed, or screenings attended. It’ll help you follow up and debrief later without forgetting details.

❌ DON’T: Burn Out on Day One

TIFF is a marathon, not a sprint. Enjoy parties but don’t go overboard, you’ll need energy for the days ahead.

✅ DO: Use Resources

Here’s a helpful TIFF Industry Guide packed with more tips, links, and suggestions to help you navigate the week.

🎬 And Finally… Enjoy It!

TIFF is one of the greatest celebrations of cinema in the world. Whether you’re there to network, launch a project, or just a bit of it all, remember to enjoy the moment.

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