A few thoughts on why you should be connecting with like-minded creatives.
Networking used to frighten me. I’d have chills down to the bone thinking about attending a networking event, especially when it was on my own. I was so scared that I would say something wrong, or even worse – not know what to say at all! I’d get really clammy hands, which are less than ideal for events where everyone’s constantly shaking hands and introducing themselves.
But, now I live for connecting with new people. 8 am coffee date before the daily grind? You bet! In fact, I’m on my way to one now and it’s my favorite way to start the day. I leave feeling so refreshed, renewed, and totally ready to take on any creative challenges that come my way….or that I generally like to give myself.
Connecting with Like-Minded Creatives & Why It’s So Important
You can’t go it alone. Especially if you’re a freelancer, own your own business, or simply work from home. Days can get long and lonely, and creative inspiration may be lacking. While I do work full-time outside of my blog and freelancing, I still find it so absolutely necessary to connect with like-minded creatives as much as possible.
Take, for example, that morning coffee catch-up. I like to use that time to chat about the projects we’re currently working on that we’re most excited about; opportunities and exciting happenings within the creative community; and perhaps most importantly, opportunities for collaboration. I find that after even a quick 30-minute meet-up with like-minded creatives, we leave with a heightened sense of purpose and a creative task list that we feel entirely passionate about completing as quickly as possible. In fact, after a snowy day coffee date with photographer extraordinaire, Madeline Heising, we had a collaboration on the books and even managed to sneak in a quick snow globe photo shoot!
Now, if you prefer connecting on social media and avoiding those typically-awkward networking events, here are a few tips for networking on social media to get you started.
How do you like to connect with like-minded creatives? Is it the morning coffee catch-up that fuels you or something else?
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All photos of me are by the incredibly talented & kind Madeline Heising.
I agree, us creatives definitely need to connect and it’s so important for our businesses, as well as for our inspiration! Hearing other people’s input and ideas can do so much for us. I love connecting with people online or attending events to meet like minded bloggers!
http://mylovelierdays.com
It’s the best! I love meeting new people so so much. It’s always so much fun to hear what others are passionate about – it’s like getting a quick glimpse into their lives. xo
I LOVE this post Gabi! Not only because I’m the 8 am coffee date you mentioned but because I so agree. Networking does not come naturally to me I still have one foot in clammy-hands territory. But when I do make the effort it almost always pays off and like you said leaves you feeling more inspired than ever. Thanks for sharing on this topic!
Aw thanks, Emily! It can be so nerve-wracking, but you’re right – it really does pay off. Already excited for our next George Howell date! 😉
Gabriella! I am THRILLED that you posted this!! I’m moving to Boston in just a few days, and I would absolutely love to connect with you and get the download on the Boston Blog scene. Let me know if you’d be down for a coffee date!
xo Mackenzie | ToThe9sFashion.com
I would absolutely love that! Feel free to shoot me a note at hello@bygabriella.co 🙂
xo