Series 1, Episode 3: Networking with Michael Lark

  In this episode, Michael Lark talks about his journey to learn how to network. He is a fellow introvert and didn’t find networking easy to do at first. However, he points out that everything requires practice and he started putting himself out there and engaging in conversations he might not have otherwise joined. He now has a huge network and get most of his professional photography gigs through word of mouth. He also discusses how to build your personal brand. Michael is currently a full-time operations analyst and IT administrator for a Fire Department. Born and raised in Dallas, he received his Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Business and Information Systems and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Texas at Arlington. In addition to his job with the Fire Department, Michael is also a professional sports photographer and owner of Dallas Sports Fanatic, LLC, and Dallas Dance Fanatic.  In 2013, Michael began building his personal brand on social media (Twitter/Instagram) as a go-to for news, rumors, insights, and commentary on the Dallas Mavericks and Dallas Cowboys, as well as other professional sports, teams, and players. MavsFanatic.com brought Michael on as a staff writer and social media coordinator in May 2014, partnering with Ryan Wilson as co-owner of the site.   In the summer of 2017, Mavs Fanatic transformed into Dallas Sports Fanatic, a credentialed media organization covering all Dallas-area college and professional sports. That year, Michael also started his own freelance photography company, Michael Lark Photography, specializing in sports and entertainment photography, digital media, and video production. Michael has shot several charity events, conducted hundreds of private photoshoots, having shot several NBA and NFL players, Dallas Mavericks Dancers, Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, as well as private portrait shoots, live events, weddings, and many more.  As a freelance sports photographer, Michael has covered the 2017 Byron Nelson, 2017 Colonial Invitational, 2018 Cotton Bowl, 2018 MLB All-Star Game, and 2018 NFL Draft. He’s shot freelance for the Big 12 Conference, FC Dallas, Houston Dynamo, Seattle Sounders, Houston Dynamo, FC Dallas, Dallas Mavericks, Allen Americans Ice Angels, and Texas Rangers. Follow along with him on his journey: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themichaellark/ https://www.instagram.com/themichaellarkphotography/ Website: https://www.dallassportsfanatic.com/