Networking Without the Awkwardness
Let’s face it—networking can feel a bit awkward. The forced small talk, the lingering fear of saying the wrong thing, and the pressure to impress can make even the most confident creatives hesitate. But what if networking didn’t have to feel that way?
For creative entrepreneurs, networking isn’t about handing out as many business cards as possible; it’s about building genuine connections that inspire collaboration, growth, and fresh ideas. Whether you're a photographer, designer, writer, or maker, here are some real, relatable tips to help you navigate networking without the cringe factor.
Shift Your Mindset: It's Not About 'Selling' Yourself
Think of networking as a conversation, not a pitch. Instead of focusing on what you can gain, focus on genuine curiosity about the other person. Ask about their latest projects, what excites them, or how they got started. People love sharing their stories, and authentic interest often leads to meaningful connections.
Prepare a Few Go-To Icebreakers
Ditch the clichéd "What do you do?" Instead, try:
"What inspired you to come to this event?"
"Working on any exciting projects right now?"
"What's the most unexpected thing you've learned in your field?"
These open-ended questions invite people to share more about their passions and experiences, making the conversation feel natural.
Embrace the Awkward Moments
Awkwardness is often just part of meeting new people—and that’s okay! If there's a lull in the conversation, laugh it off or shift the topic. Authenticity goes a long way, and acknowledging the awkwardness with humor can actually strengthen the connection.
Quality Over Quantity
You don’t need to connect with everyone in the room. Aim to have a few meaningful conversations rather than spreading yourself too thin. These quality interactions often lead to lasting relationships, collaborations, and referrals.
Follow Up with Purpose
The real magic of networking happens after the event. Send a quick message or email mentioning something specific from your conversation. It shows you were genuinely engaged and keeps the connection alive.
Join Us at Creative Corner This Saturday!
Ready to put these tips into action? Don’t miss Creative Corner’s Creative Networking Event this Saturday—an inspiring networking event designed for creative entrepreneurs like you. Meet fellow photographers, artists, writers, and makers in a laid-back, welcoming environment where authentic connections thrive.
Details:
✨ Date: 02/15/2025
✨ Time: 3:00PM
✨ Location: Beech St. / The Gateway Entertainment District - Tabled area between the pavilion & The Gateway brick sign at Ferus.
View more info and RSVP here (RSVP is not required, just gets you setup for an event reminder) :)
Come as you are, bring your creative spirit, and let’s connect without the awkwardness. We can’t wait to see you there!
