I hear the above question from designers often.
Networking can be scary.
In this post I'll show you how to overcome fears and get comfortable networking.
Unfortunately, many designers find it difficult to network.
There are plenty of reasons
- It's way too scary
- They don't know how to start
- Did I mention that it's way too scary?
- Tried it once, received a firm rejection so I stopped
Sound familiar? I felt all of these as well.
Let's get started and face those networking challenges.
And, in the process gain confidence to try new networking skills in the future.
1. Make a list of those you know
The most difficult part of networking is who to network with.
Reaching out to someone you don't know can be scary.
So, we're going to start with people you know, or are familiar with.
How?
Start by making a list of those in your current network
Yes, in your current network.
We all have them. You have them.
Some have more connections than others, but you have them.
Who are they?
•Family
•Friends
•Alumni
•Mentors
•Teachers
•Friends of friends
•LinkedIn connections
•Current work colleagues
•Previous work colleagues
•Members of groups you belong to
•Designers you met along your journey
Anyone who works for, have worked for, or who knows those that hire designers.
They don't have to be designers themselves.
Just that they have an affiliation with someone who hires or have hired designers.
Make sense? Next.
2. Organize your list
Most designers create a list and never do anything with it.
That's why organizing your list is paramount.
Your list is one your most important assets as a designer.
It's how you'll create future opportunities and it will grow as your career grows.
Let's make your list organized and accessible .
On a spreadsheet create a set of columns:
Name | Company | Title | Contact info | How you’re connected | Notes
Under each of those columns add those individuals that you collected. You can prioritize based on who they are, and how well you know them.
Asset: Notion People Directory Template (free)
If you've gotten this far you now have the beginnings of your network.
Good work.
3. Reach out to your connections, one-by-one
This can be the most challenging part - reaching out to someone.
That's why we started with people you're familiar, or somewhat familiar with!
It's easier to network with those you have a history with.
We're slowly building your networking muscle.
Now, one-by-one, connect with your list.
The goal is to reach out when it makes sense.
For example; You noticed that there is a job opening for a design position at a company that one of your connections work at. That would be a good opportunity to connect with them and inquire about the position.
or
Maybe you went to school together, or met casually but don't know them well, it might be a good opportunity to rekindle that connection.
or
You're new to design and would like to show your portfolio to a working designer who is on your list. Ask for 20 minutes of their time to get their expert feedback on your work.
or
You noticed a designers work online which you admire. Connect, let them know how impressed you are and would love to get feedback on something you're working on.
or
Maybe you worked with someone in the past and would like to connect again. Try something like this: "I wanted to reach out because I remember [shared experience or project]. I'm currently working on [new project or goal] and thought it would be great to connect again."
There are many ways, and reasons to connect with those on your list.
And remember: People like helping and connecting with others. And, because they're on your list they're more inclined to help.
Don't feel that you're wasting their time. Reach out.
If they don't respond you can try again. If you don't hear back a second time, that's okay, move to the next on your list.
And, always be genuine, specific, and respectful.
👉 In future posts I'll show you how to expand your network and connect with others in your industry!
Conclusion
Build on your current connections and keep growing your list as you grow your career.
• Make a list of people you know
• Organize your network on a spreadsheet
• Reach out and build on that existing relationship
If you have any thoughts I would love to hear them, reply back!
Thanks for reading, and see you next week!
Anthony Faria
the Designer's Roadmap
Helping designers navigate the path to success
When you're ready, here are few ways I can help you:
- 1:1 Portfolio Review Laser focused 1:1 portfolio review where I evaluate all aspects of your work; visuals, storytelling, overall approach recommending key improvements to help your work stand out.
- 1:1 Career Coaching Session My 1:1 coaching sessions are designed to help you overcome challenges, set clear objectives, and develop a personalized roadmap for success.
- Job Hunting Checklist The exact steps I use to help designers successfully improve their job search all in a free checklist! Stay organized, focused, and prepared throughout your job hunt (free).
- Job Posting Sites for Designers Over the years I've collected job boards exclusively for design jobs. 100+ active links (free).
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