Being an artist or creative, Networking can be hard and intimidating sometimes.

Not Everyone is comfortable by the the nerves and awkwardness of networking—and artists and creators usually don’t like taking time away from their work to network. But no matter what career you’re in it’s  so important to go out there and meet new people! Building relationships will bring in new business, take your career a step further, and open up new doors for you.

So, here are 7 Networking tips to get you going on the right path and taking your career to the next level.

7 Networking Tips For Artists & Creatives.

1. Embrace yourself

Create your own networks but most importantly be yourself. When networking, being yourself really does work. Being honest and authentic being an artist with the people you meet is a great big step in the right direction for building trusting relationships for your creative career. The magic happens outside of your comfort zone. Be prepared to get uncomfortable if you’re serious about being an authentic creator. By knowing and being yourself, you are better able to acknowledge things that you do not know well enough. You won’t be too proud to ask questions because you – and, hopefully, all the others professionals you work with – know-how genuine you are. People will respect your ability and even eagerness to pick their brains.

2. Kindness goes a long way

Even the smallest and simplest gesture can make an awesome impression. Helping doesn’t necessarily mean mowing their grass or buying them lunch; helping someone could be a gentle wave or a smile when walking past them, or it could simply be listening to their problems, offering advice, and standing by their side through hard times or sometimes  just telling them that how amazing they are and how goo they do their job. work is. Everyone has a way to add value to others. Just think about the knowledge, skills, time, or relationships that you have, and then find ways that you can use those things to benefit others. It may take stepping out of your studio and sometimes even out of your comfort zone and it may take some work on your part but the more you help other artists & people of the industry the more you will build relationships that are underpinned by trust and value. One small act of kindness can go a long way.

3. Be open & approachable

So the first idea to remember is that approachability is a two-way street. It’s both you stepping onto someone else’s front porch, and you inviting someone to step onto your front porch. As it connects people to you. It allows them to feel more comfortable talking to you. And it increases your approachability as much as artists, curators, collectors and people of your community & other professionals will be magnetised to you due to the commonality you share. It could be anything like their works, projects, creativity or anything common.  So, when you’re approachable, people will automatically feel more comfortable, and when they feel comfortable, new and effective bonds are born. That’s why effective networking always starts with approachability.

4. Share your story

Sharing your story in a concise manner can be your elevator pitch, it could be the beginning of a new opportunity. An elevator pitch is a brief way of introducing yourself as a creative or an artist, getting across a key point or two, and making a connection with other artists. A common question people ask “So, How did you get into art?”

Have an “Elevated story” ready so you know exactly what to say. The 30-40 seconds summary should be delivered in a confident and convincing manner. If your story/pitch is too long and drawn out, it lacks conviction. When you want to make networks, connections, this is your one chance to make a great impression and present yourself with clarity.

5. Have an address

Having a sound digital presence or even carrying a business card if you like the traditional way is important while meeting someone. This helps them find you and learn more about you when they are ready. And, also digitally becomes a great way to keep in touch. Once you have made connections and communicated with other professionals, the next step is to keep in touch. A good way to do this is to express interest and ask to see their work at a later date. This is where you’ll need to exchange instagram links, linkedin connects or business cards. As an artist, it’s important that your ‘Business address’ reflect your artistic style. Not only will this show off your skills but it also helps you stand out and be remembered. They will help make your connections and networks stronger due to the power of personal networking.

6. Check In

One of the most important steps to networking as an artist/creative is to check in & build a genuine relationship with people you feel aligned with. Don’t rely on the person you met to remember you. Send an email. Connect on LinkedIn/insatgram/website.. Send a personal message and relate to the conversation you had at the event or when you first talked. It could be your work or something common you talked about or your invite them to your studio and show them your work. Then make a point of keeping regularly in touch. Follow Up is the key to developing new relationships. If you said you would follow up with someone, you better do it. This is important! And a golden chance for you to not only some good opportunities but also some amazing friendships.

7. Enjoy & Relax

It doesn’t have to be scary or stressful. Networking is always like meeting new artists, making friends, sharing your work, talking about your preferred mediums your achievements, and getting to know the person. Meeting new people from the industry can be fun and full of endless positive possibilities. Enjoy their company and learn about them, learn about their projects & work as much as you can, you never know where it might lead you to. Just build genuine long-term relationships.

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Written By: Akanksha Verma

ATH Artists Meet Up’s are a great way to begin networking with women creatives from around the world.