Networking
Networking has such bad connotations - we instantly think of corporate settings, suits and formal chats. Let me tell you - networking has come on a long way, and the key to success is finding the right event for YOU. I’ve never felt good in a corporate environment - I much prefer to meet new people over a coffee, wearing jeans and my favourite jumper. I don’t want to be putting on a front. I value real conversations so much more over the formal chit chat you gain nothing from.
So in the spirit of real connections, I wanted to ask you something. When is the last time you reached out to someone you’ve been following for a while, to collaborate on a project, work together or maybe even just meet up for coffee?
It’s so easy to get caught up in working and constantly bettering your business, but the truth is, life is better when we work together. I’m not saying that you have to go out and get yourself a business partner - that’s not what I’m saying at all, but working with other creatives once in a while can have huge benefits.
I found this out very quickly - the monthly meet ups I organise prove to be the perfect amount of motivation to keep me focused and raring to go smash those goals I’ve been working towards.
Not only will you make new professional contacts, which may benefit you somewhere down the road, but you will also gain SO much personally. I have met so many wonderful people through reaching out - a simple message on Instagram is sometimes all it takes. I’ve met new friends, I’ve collaborated on projects together.
As you already know, running your own business can be a bit of a bumpy road sometimes. Having that support, even if it’s in the form of a quick chat over Instagram or Facebook, can really make the difference between feeling completely defeated, and feeling like you can actually tackle the next tasks ahead.
Reach out
So, I’d like to challenge you - reach out to that one person you’ve been wanting to meet for ages. Maybe there’s a project you’ve been thinking about for months now, but need someone else’s help. Reach out - you never know what might come of it!
If you’d like to join us and meet other female creatives in real life, we meet on the first Wednesday of every month at Blend cafe in Sneinton, Nottingham, 10-12pm. We are a welcoming bunch, so don’t worry if you don’t know anyone. If you’d like to know more, feel free to drop me a message!
If you’re not local to Nottingham, there’s still plenty of other networking events that are going on all around the country. Check out One Girl Band, Flock and Form, Girls doing cool things to name a few!
Until next time,
Anna x