How to network well… as in without the ick.

Photo by Camera Hannah from Big SNAP! 2023

OK, hands up, who hates the idea of networking? Have your palms gone all sweaty at the very idea of it?! You are not alone! I always get the fear right beforehand. I don’t know what it is I’m so scared of - maybe a lot of it is tied up in whether I deserve to be there? Like, surely everyone else in attendance will be more accomplished, more talented, more everything than me, and then they’ll all turn to look at me and be thinking ‘why are they even here?’ Argh, hello imposter syndrome.

It’s never gone that way though. Every time I’ve been to a networking event, everyone has been super friendly and welcoming and by the end of it, I’ve made new connections, dare I say it, new friends(!) and I am always ALWAYS glad I swallowed the fear and went anyway.

There are plenty of good reasons to grow your network; all of them enriching to you and your business. Obviously, the first one is that it will bring you more work. Your new connection has a client who is looking for someone who offers your particular service? Guess who gets recommended. Your colleague has had an enquiry for a date they’re already booked for (we can all only book a date once, right?), guess who gets a client referral? None of which happens if people in your industry don’t know about you. Social media is all very well, but in person networking means people can get to know you and your vibe and therefore feel comfier recommending you to their network.

Also, as a creative professional, especially if you’re self-employed or working for a smaller organisation, it’s likely that the people in your non-work circle don’t really ‘get’ what you do or what your industry is like. I’ve given up trying to explain to my PAYE friends and family how my work life, well, works to be honest. It’s much easier and way more satisfying to vent with people who get it! They’re the people I go to when I want to bounce around a new idea or if I have an issue with a client or process in my business. They’re actually quite a lot like me, got into their businesses for similar reasons to me. We have a lot in common. And it’s so good to have that kind of business support network in my life!

It’s a win for your mental health too. Quite often we work by ourselves which can be fairly isolating. A network means I have actual colleagues and real people to turn to when I need support, people who understand what I’m going through.

Have I sold you on networking? Want to get involved? Here are some top tips and general advice around building your network.

Be patient.

These things take time. Like any relationship, it takes a while to build trust, build a rapport and show people you can be relied upon. That means months of showing up and committing to the process. It’s a fun journey though - I mean, you’re essentially hanging out with cool people and it’s technically marketing…

Don’t centre yourself.

Don’t go in thinking, ‘what can I get out of this?’ Go in thinking, ‘what can I offer?’ One of the reasons we do this is to be part of community, and in community, it’s about sharing your resources, your knowledge and helping to contribute to bring everyone up. If you go in with a taking attitude, you’re not really invested in it but also, people can see it a mile off. 

Have boundaries.

With the above in mind, don’t let people take the piss. We all need to earn a living and have limits on what we can personally offer, so just make sure you’re comfortable at all times. There’s so much joy in giving and being able to help someone on their path, but if you’re too depleted, or are spending too much time on other people’s projects, your own business and mental health will suffer. It’s all about balance, right?

Don’t fall for the rockstars. 

There will always be people who are more style than substance. Chances are their charm and charisma have carried them - as well as other people. When it comes to making new connections, trust your instincts and don’t be drawn into a popularity contest. That’s not why you’re there.

Be authentic.

Being you is the best thing you can do for yourself and your business. Let people see who you are and let them like you for it. Honesty and integrity are the stuff strong connections are made of, which is why you’re there. I promise, you’re enough as you are. 

Hopefully I’ve fired you up and you’re all raring to get going with this networking lark! What to do now? Where to go? If you’re looking for a bunch of creative professionals who enjoy living a life unconventional, come and join us at SNAP! We have our Facebook group (which is a great intro!) but we also have lots of in person meets throughout the year.

If you’re invested, why not join us at Big SNAP 24 - a few days in Folkestone in April where you can not only meet but spend some time with fellow professionals, learn some new skills for your business and generally up-skill yourself! We would love to see you there!