We’ve compiled some advice and tips on how to get the most out the amazing networking opportunities at this year’s Two + Two.
Networking doesn’t need to be the scary experience that most people seem to believe it is. It’s basically just talking about yourself and your skills.
If you’re really going to make a splash in the creative industries, then networking is essential. Go down any career path and there’s a lot of ‘it’s not what you know, it’s who you know’ so it’s worth thinking about networking not just as a route to a job but as a key tool in creating opportunities now and in the future.
Here are our top networking dos and don’ts
1)
DO make sure you do your homework. Who’s going to be at the event? What do you want to learn from them? Whether it’s a chance to speak to a key player, recruiter or graduate representative, do your research and use the company website, LinkedIn or the socials to find out more about them and come up with 3 or 4 key questions. You can view a list of the companies attending Two+Two at the end of this blog.
DON’T spread yourself too thinly. Trying to speak to everyone and coming away with very little is a waste of time and energy for all involved and you run the risk of not being taken seriously. Being passionate and authentic stands out a mile so focus on speaking to one or two key players will be more beneficial in the long run.
2)
DO keep a note of people’s names. Names are priceless. Once you’ve spoken to someone, whether in person or online, drop them an email or tweet afterwards to tell them how much you enjoyed meeting them and that you hope to stay in touch. Be careful not to go too overboard – staying professional and polite shows you paid attention that you valued their time. Touches like this make you memorable.
DON’T forget to introduce yourself when you’re networking and say a little about who you are. Be careful, this isn’t the time to go in with the hard sell and give them the potted history of every achievement you’ve ever had – just more an opportunity to make sure they’ve got your name, what and where you’re studying and a couple of key skills or career-relevant experiences which make you stand out.
3)
DO make sure your online presence is up-to-date and engaging. This goes without saying, surely? Keeping on top of LinkedIn and the socials is an absolute must and a brilliant way to back up your in-person skills. Check the ‘personality’ of your profile and keep things recent and relevant. A strong online presence is great especially if you’re shy and find in-person networking hard.
DON’T send spam to your connections or try to get your new connections to endorse you. LinkedIn is a brilliant networking tool, and it can really help you access people you wouldn’t normally be able to. But be careful – LinkedIn etiquette is real and just like in day-to-day life, people don’t appreciate time wasters.
There’s a lot to think about, and networking, like anything else, takes time to master. With the right research and preparation, good manners and a willingness to begin building connections and starting conversations you’ll soon be making all those crucial contacts.
