Yes! You can do it!
Are you looking to get your creative business noticed? Or, would you like to expand the collector base for your artwork? To find new collectors for their work, smart artists use networking. Not just networking with other artists, but looking outside of the creative community to grow their audiences. Building relationships with people in different types of businesses can lead to more opportunities for your work.
There are many ways to do this, through professional networking organizations, local chambers of commerce and finding events through tools such as Meetup and Eventbrite. Once you find an event to attend, the following tips will help you to make the most of it.
Tips for Your Next Networking Opportunity
Just do it.
Are you hesitant to take that first step? Start by setting a simple goal for yourself to attend one event per month. Even better, find a friend and buddy up for the event. Then, when you are more comfortable, see if you can increase the number to two or three a month. The more events you attend, the more comfortable you will become with the process.
Practice.
It’s common to be nervous about attending a new event where you might not know many people. If you’re not involved in group events on a regular basis, it might seem awkward for you. Practice introductions ahead of time to put yourself at ease, especially if the meeting agenda includes formal introductions or “commercials”. You could also plan some questions and conversation starters in advance. You might even try rehearsing a bit with a friend or family member beforehand.
Make a Plan.
Before the event, try to learn who might be in attendance. You might be able to find a list of group members if you’re attending an event being sponsored by a Chamber or other business group. You might find that you already know a few people on this list that you can look forward to seeing. Or, you might find an interesting contact that you would like to meet. Knowing who might be there helps you to prepare to make the most of the event.
Have a Goal.
Set a simple goal. Can you make one new contact at the event or have one solid conversation? Don’t worry about getting to everyone in the room. Rather, just be prepared, but then let it happen, knowing you are ready and excited to meet a new contact or two.
Take Notes.
At the end of the event, if you have a good conversation with someone, make a note of what you would like to remember about your discussion. Notes will help you make more personal and meaningful follow-ups.
Follow Up.
Within a week of the event, take time to sit down and go through any notes or business cards that you’ve collected. Then, take time to reach out on either social media or with a handwritten note (using your art if possible)!
A Final Note
Remember, it’s not about you. Focus on learning about the people you have the opportunity to meet at the event, rather than worrying about getting your work in front of them. Just make a few friends, follow-up and take it from there.
Get more ideas on how to grow your art business by subscribing to the Artisan Advantage newsletter here.
