Starting out as a junior designer the idea of “networking” made me queasy.
Crowded events, forced small talk, and trying to sound interesting while balancing a drink did not sit well with me. It still doesn’t.
Over time, I learned networking isn’t about being outgoing. It’s about being curious.
Some of the biggest leaps in my career; new jobs, mentorships, even teaching opportunities came from simple conversations.
None of them started with “networking.”
They started with a shared interest and a willingness to connect.
Conversations leads to things.
You just need to show up with the right mindset and a little consistency.
Rethink what networking actually means
Most designers think networking means selling yourself.
That’s where the pressure comes from.
In reality, networking is connecting with people who share your interests.
When you approach it this way, the goal shifts:
- It’s no longer “How do I impress this person?”
- It’s “What can I learn from them and how can I contribute?”
That mindset changed everything for me.
You stop performing and start relating.
The Introvert’s Advantage
Introverts often make better networkers. They just don’t realize it.
Here’s why:
They tend to listen more deeply, and ask more thoughtful questions.
This builds trust through genuine interest.
So instead of trying to “fake” extroversion, lean into what already makes you strong.
That's your ability to connect one-on-one, to listen, and to make others feel comfortable.
Those are powerful networking skills.
Simple ways to start connecting
Here are a few practical, low-pressure ways to build real relationships:
1. Start with people you already know.
Old classmates, former coworkers, or designers you’ve collaborated with. Send a quick message to check in. Something as simple as:
“Hey, I’ve been following your recent work! I would love to catch up and hear what you’ve been working on.”
You don’t need an agenda. Just start a conversation.
2. Comment thoughtfully online.
This is how I began networking. You don’t have to post daily to stay visible.
Leave comments that add value. It could be a small insight, a follow-up question, or encouragement.
It’s one of the easiest ways to build a presence and spark meaningful conversations.
3. Reach out after events.
If you attend a webinar, class, or talk, message a speaker or attendee who said something that resonated with you.
“I really liked your point about [topic]. It got me thinking about how we approach that on my team.”
You’d be surprised how often those messages lead to lasting connections.
A mindset shift for the next time you hesitate
When you hesitate to reach out, remember this:
Most designers love helping others who are genuinely interested in the field.
Networking doesn’t have to feel transactional.
It’s about learning, sharing, and staying connected to a community that understands your work.
If you treat every connection as a conversation not a career move, you’ll start to enjoy it.
Then opportunities will follow naturally.
Final thoughts
Networking is a habit that compounds.
A quick message, a insightful comment, an invitation to coffee are small moments that add up to a powerful support system over time.
So if the idea of “networking” still feels uncomfortable, reframe it.
Start small. Be genuine. Keep showing up.
You never know who might be on the other side of that next message.
Thanks for reading, see you next week!
Anthony Faria
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