Networking can be hella awkward, especially for artists and creatives. You may despise even the idea of taking time away from creating to get out and network, but it's extremely important! Networking is one of the BEST ways to build up a client base that actually wants to follow and interact with you - not to mention give you their business! Networking can also allow you more opportunities to connect and collaborate with other creative minds, open new doors within your chosen career path and allow you to brainstorm ideas for expanding your reach as an artist with others like you! Did you know that 50% of jobs are found through traditional networking methods?? It might be time to get out of that studio for a bit and meet some new people! Don't worry, it's not as stressful as it may seem (I promise!!). A little practice implementing the tips below will have you networking like pro in no time! According to Format.com's latest guide to Networking for Artists & Creators, not only is networking important but you shouldn't have to be stressed out about it! I am including 10 tips from their guide below and you can read more about each tip (along with even more great information) in their full article here! 1. Don't go into it Expecting Immediate Opportunities - Networking is about the long-run. When meeting new people, the idea is to build up the creative network around you and then hear about opportunities organically through your connections. You don't have to make a sale or score a commission the same day you go out to a networking event!
2. Treat it like Making Friends - Be genuine and interested in other people's work. You don't have to talk exclusively about work, yours or theirs - instead focus on getting to know them and create an authentic connection, just like you would if you were making a new friend! 3. Talk to Everyone - If you are a photographer, don't just talk to photographers- the same goes for artists, makers, etc. The key is to BRANCH OUT! Try making contacts in other industries with other interests. This can allow you to find out about opportunities you may not have found out about otherwise! As an artist or photographer, getting to know the owner of your local yoga studio or coffee shop might mean they think of you first when they need a new mural on their wall or new photos for their website. 4. Ace your Online Portfolio - Be sure that your website or online portfolio is clean, curated to your client base and up to date! People need to be able to find you and you will want to be putting your best foot forward when they do! Watch for broken or outdated links, old information or missing information! 5. Master your Elevator Pitch - An elevator pitch can be described as a 30-second explanation of what you do and what makes you, and your work, unique. In order to do this you need to know who you are marketing to (your target audience) as well as what makes your work special and interesting. Once you have crafted a pitch, try it out in the mirror or maybe in front a friend or family member to build confidence and get feedback! 6. Update those business cards - You don't want to be caught searching for a scrap of paper and a pen to write down your information (we have all been there at one time or another!). Be sure to have professional, up to date business cards that clearly showcase you, your work and your brand identity. Vistaprint, Moo and Canva are all great tools for creating new business card designs. Also, be sure to keep a few cards in your car, wallet, bag, etc. to ensure you are never caught without them! 7. Check how you present yourself - Body language, facial expressions and tone say a lot about you- not to mention what you actually SAY. It may be helpful to role-play with a friend and get feedback on these things before heading out to an event. The more you practice casual networking with people in your community (your hairdresser, barista, fitness instructor, chiropractor, etc.) the easier this will become. 8. Don't limit it to offline networking - In person meet ups are crucial but you can still do some networking from your home or studio on social media. Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and Linkedin all offer great opportunities to join groups and network with other professionals both in and outside of your creative discipline. 9. Follow up and remember the details - Don't hesitate to follow up with people you met at an in-person event! Be sure to reach out while they are fresh in your memory, re-introduce yourself, mention where you met and try and include something specific from your conversation with them. 10. Ask to meet in person - Follow up emails are great, but asking to meet up for a one on one chat is even better; this can help ensure that you keep in touch and maintain a true, lasting connection! If you would like to learn more about each of these tips, need help putting together a follow up email or approaching the subject of meeting up in person with your networking connections, be sure to check out Format.com's full guide for prompts and ideas! Just remember that Networking doesn't have to be stressful! It can be very enjoyable meeting and working with other creative minded people. It can also open new doors and offer new opportunities for you and your work! So, take a deep breath, keep those positive mantras flowing and get out there!!! Be sure to give me a follow if you would like to stay up to date with my latest blog posts!
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