Now more than ever, it's becoming a well-known fact that networking is essential in the job-hunting process. Even though we are acutely aware of this, it can still be challenging to start the undertaking.
I just finished up a busy week full of networking events. From webinars to phone calls to LinkedIn messaging, my network has grown a substantial amount in just seven days. I wanted to share any advice for those who might be nervous about the thought of networking, especially as a student designer.
Here are some tips and tricks that I have learned from my networking experience.
1. Start small.
When you're first starting in a new industry or career path, it can be easy to feel like you need to move quickly and reach out to every professional in the field to get you recognized. Instead of connecting with as many professionals as possible and sending a bunch of impersonal notes, find a small handful of designers in your desired industry and reach out with a more personalized message. Creating a more lasting relationship with one or two designers could lead you to so many more meaningful connections in the future.
2. Create a plan.
Set aside time in your calendar to focus specifically on networking. Know what networking tactics you want to focus on that week, and commit to it. I have been setting aside a lot of time in the last few weeks to attend webinars and Clubhouse discussions to learn more about the industry and find one or two designers that I vibe with. Since you were apart of the same networking event as them, you already have an icebreaker to start the conversation.
3. Prepare, prepare, prepare!
Are you attending an online networking event? Research the companies or professionals attending ahead of time and know who you want to talk to. Create a list of questions and have your elevator pitch ready to go. Are you meeting a new connection for a coffee? Have your resume or business card ready to share. Have your questions prepared and time your discussion. The last thing you want to do is keep your connection later than the time you promised, especially if they have a tight schedule.
4. Ask your connections for more connections.
This is one of those things that, for me, is easier said than done. I was always nervous that if I ended an informational interview asking if they could direct me to other individuals to connect with, that they would then take that as a message that I didn't value our own connection. However, this couldn't be more untrue. Most veteran designers want to help students and junior designers, you just need to ask! They know the importance of networking because they have been in your shoes.
5. Follow up.
People are constantly meeting new faces, so to build a relationship and make a lasting impression, make sure you're following up with your connections. Even a simple message asking how their weekend was or complimenting them on a recent case study they completed is enough!
The biggest thing to remember when networking is to be yourself. If you put yourself out there and stay true to who you are, you are bound to find a network of designers who are similar to you and can help you advance in your design journey!
If you have networking techniques that you have found to be successful, I would love to hear about them! If you're looking for a new connection, I'm just a message away.
- Kaity
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