Networking Tips for Graphic Designers
Introducing Guest Blogger Wesley Hoffman of Treehouse Networkshop
“It’s not what you know, it’s who you know,” is something we’ve all heard a million times throughout our career.
We’ve heard it so many times, we almost doubt if it’s still true. Well, it may carry more weight now that ever.
About 3 years ago, I was looking to change career paths, which included changing industries. I’m not a designer, developer, writer, or video editor/producer. My background is in new business and sales. But I couldn’t help thinking that there was a place for me in the creative world.
At that time, I was let-go (aka fired) from my job, and looked at it as a fresh start. I started going about my job search in a different way. Sure, I submitted countless resumes to online job boards, but the real opportunities came from these three simple rules.
Show up.
Where there’s people, there’s opportunity. When I was unemployed, that freed up a lot of time to go to as many networking functions and community events as possible. I was going there out of necessity, but also because meeting new people is something I truly enjoy.
After just a couple weeks of attending several events, I had many new contacts that I made just from being present. Of course, not everyone I met could help me get a job, but I’m still in contact with a lot of these people today, and some have even become clients.
People have information that might be difficult to find with all the noise online. They might not be able to help you directly, but they can point you in the right direction.
Be Yourself.
This may sound like a no-brainer, but it’s easier said than done. When we have a goal in mind, and we start networking, we put on a face. A face that we think others want to see. A face that we think will get us what we want. The truth is, that’s not really who we are.
These days personality, sense of humor, work ethic, and communication skills are just as important as technical skills. There are a million people out there that do what you do. What’s going to set you apart, and be memorable is who you are – your personality. So don’t hold back, don’t put on “the face” and be yourself.
Show your work.
This is the fun part. Networking has to happen in person and digitally. As a designer, photographer, or videographer, you have a bit of a leg up on the competition. Those are visual trades, with social media outlets like Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter, you’re able to showcase your skills all the time.
I love when friends of mine start mini-campaigns of their work. Whether they’re showing a doodle, graphic, photo, or video, I love being able to look through their art and see what they’re doing for fun.
For me, as a speaker and entrepreneur, I use Instagram and Snapchat to give small sound bites about me, topics I speak on, and how my business can help. I also include pics from my travels and experiences to give people a peek at who I am and my interests.
The cool thing about showing your work, and really, showing who you are, is that it creates a jumping off point for conversations. Most interactions start online, so when you meet someone new in person, they may already be following you on social media, and have a common bond.
These are just a few tips. If you’re interested in learning more, feel free to check out my website or follow me on twitter: @treehousenetwrk.