In this episode of Design Life we discuss how to build your network. Over the course of your career, how can you build a strong, supportive network? We talk about taking the organic approach to creating your network so you can you successfully leverage the support of your colleagues online and IRL.
You will have great success with networking if you approach it with a long term mindset. Don’t think of networking as something you do at a conference or an event, or when you’re trying to get a job. Networking is something you should be doing all the time, over time, sprinkled here and there. Everyone you meet has the potential to be an important part of your network.
Take the organic approach to networking. Your relationship will get off on an even footing if both of you are just interested in getting to know one another. If you want to intentionally reach out to establish a relationship with someone online or IRL, think about what you can offer them in return. What insight can you offer that might be of value to them.
If you don’t feel comfortable sharing/connecting on social media, try communities like the Design Life Community. Joining a community of like minded people will help to put you at ease. Many networking opportunities might naturally develop in a community as everyone is there for a similar reason.
You might meet someone who you thought you’d like to be in your network but they’re not as keen as you, as you were on them. If you meet someone and they don’t accept you as you are, maybe they’re not a good person to have in your network after all.
Building your network isn’t necessarily about speaking to the person. Highlight this person, celebrate their work, share their work - send them some good energy.These things have a lot of weight and will let them know that you exist and that you admire them.
01.30 – Catch up
05.40 – Today’s topic
08.54 – Questions from our community
15.30 – Building a network without a social media presence
19.00 – Putting yourself out there
23.40 – Learning from your network
