7 Useful Networking Tips for Artists

Author, Creative Commons, 

Networking. For some, this is a fun and invigorating activity. For most, this is difficult, time-consuming, tiring, and not always the most productive. How can you make the most of your time online, create fruitful connections, and create new opportunities for your artistic career?

We've rounded up seven of the best networking tips from art business experts to help you get the most out of your networking efforts:

1. Help yourself by helping others 

Approach networking from a “pay it forward” perspective. Create relationships based on positive interactions and goodwill. Then people will be more willing to help you achieve your art career goals.

"By helping you, I help myself." —

2. Meet other artists and offer support 

Based on the last tip, try. Go to association meetings and offer resources, advice, support, and helpful discussion. And keep visiting - make yourself a familiar face!

"Your arts community is really the perfect place to build your own network." - []

3. Prepare your elevator speech 

People are bound to ask, “So, what do you do?” Prepare an "elevator speech" so you know exactly what to say. It should be just a few sentences - a minute or less - about who you are and what you do. If they are interested, they will ask additional questions.

"Your standard introductory explanation should be short and to the point" - []

4. Looking to connect, not sell

Turn off the advertising instinct. Instead, focus on making genuine connections with people. Ask questions about who they are, what they do, their interests, etc. People want to see if they can relate to you.

"You seek to engage the other person, not control the conversation." - []

5. Collect business cards and keep track 

Show interest by collecting business cards of the people you meet. Then follow. Send an email or postcard and be sure to include the context of the meeting. Set up a future meeting with your best friends. Learn more about how to use your contact list.

“Collect business cards from everyone you meet. Make notes about them because you will follow them later.” - []

6. Bring your own business cards (lots!)

Be sure to have a stack of your own business cards to hand out to interested people. It is an easy and professional way for them to contact you. Want to create a memorable business card with the right information? Check out our tips.

7. recreation

Meeting new people can be fun and full of endless positive possibilities. Keep calm and enjoy talking to people who are interested in art. You never know where it might lead. And remember, people are rooting for your success!

“Have you ever stood up in front of an audience and introduced yourself? It can be confusing, but understand that your audience wants you to go through with it and they support you." - []

Sociality can be the key to your art business. Try it, it will help you build the right relationship.