How to Network
Having built creative careers, friendships and ‘extended families’ in Australia, the UK and Europe, ADNA’s National Director Sarah-Mace Dennis shares her tips for building communities and opportunities through creative physical and virtual networking.
Many people imagine networking as collecting business cards, attending events, or adding strangers on LinkedIn. In reality, networking is the practice of building genuine professional relationships that create opportunities, exchange knowledge and strengthen communities.
Building strong relationships is a key part of building or growing your career. This guide explores how to build meaningful connections online, and in person.
Understanding Your Networking Purpose
Before creating your networking plan, ask yourself:
- Who do I want to work with?
- Why do I want to work with them?
- What can I learn from them?
- What value can I bring?
- What problem can I help solve?
Networking works best when it is built around curiosity, contribution and shared interests rather than immediate personal gain. Don’t ask, “What can they do for me?” Ask: “How can we create value that will impact our community together?”
Mapping Your Network
Create three circles.
Circle One: Your Existing Network
People you already know:
- Friends
- Classmates
- Colleagues
- Teachers/Lecturers
- Former employers
- Family connections
Most people underestimate the future opportunities that will come from people in this circle.
Circle Two: Your Career Community
People working in your field:
- Industry professionals
- Freelancers
- Creative practitioners
- Agency staff
- Curators, programmers and producers
- Founders
- Recruiters
These people help you understand industry expectations, current and future opportunities.
Circle Three: Your Aspirational Network
The people, organisations and brands you’d love to work with one day. Ask:
- What are they creating?
- What challenges are they facing?
- What skills do they value?
- What conversations are they having?
This circle is your research and relationship-building space.
Physical Networking: Building Relationships in Real Life
If it is accessible to you, in-person networking is a great way to build new relationships and trust. People remember conversations and new ideas far more than business cards.
Before an Event
Research:
- Who is attending?
- Which organisations are represented?
- Which speakers interest you?
Prepare:
- A short introduction
- Questions you can ask others
- Examples of your work
HOT TIP: the goal is to connect with people who will help you build your creative community. This community will be vital in helping you build your career.
During an Event
Networking is a place to grow and learn. Focus on listening. Find out what your peers and colleagues are currently working on. How did they get into their current role? What excites them about their work and what new trends they are seeing in the industry? People enjoy talking about their experiences. Your job is to create space for those conversations.
Follow Up
Within 48 hours, send a LinkedIn connection request and/or a follow up email.
- Mention where you met
- Reference something you discussed
- Thank them for their time
Relationships are built in the follow-up, not the introduction.
Virtual Networking: Creating Opportunities Online
The internet has transformed how we network. Online networking is a great approach for connecting with creative networks if you cannot attend in person events. You no longer need to wait for invitations into industry spaces. You can take part in conversations every day.
LinkedIn now has hundreds of millions of users worldwide and remains one of the strongest professional networking platforms available. Check out ADNA’s How to Show Your Value guide for information on how to create your profile and build your LinkedIn network.
Resource created by Sarah-Mace Dennis, 2020-2025.
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