Here's how you can network and build industry connections as a self-employed creative professional.

Having an online presence nowadays is vital for your business or for your career. From my experience as a journalist here is why: It is your business card in the digital environment and it can attract potential clients, investors or readers from all parts of the world, especially considering platforms like LinkedIn , Twitter or Instagram with millions of users worldwide. Moreover it facilitates and encourages a more wide and open to the public discussion, offering more perspectives and getting constructive feedback. Secondly, sharing content is vital to provide trustworthiness and credibility to the public. Another point that I find valuable is educating people about current trends, sharing valuable and relevant information.

Participa activamente en conversaciones relevantes dentro de tu industria en plataformas como LinkedIn y Twitter, donde puedes compartir insights útiles y conectarte con colegas y líderes de pensamiento. Explora nuevas plataformas emergentes que puedan ofrecer oportunidades únicas para mostrar tu trabajo y establecer credibilidad en tu campo. Aprovecha eventos virtuales y seminarios web para expandir tu conocimiento y establecer conexiones significativas con otros profesionales creativos. Al mantener una presencia en línea dinámica y participativa, fortaleces tu influencia digital y aumentas las posibilidades de ser reconocido y valorado en tu industria.

One thing that I always found helpful about conferences and events is the educational opportunities besides the business opportunities. Connecting with likeminded individuals learning how they got into their specific industry and how they managed to stay relevant in their fields alongside the relevant skills they share is quite important. Another important aspect is the community building process, from my experience that’s how I got to meet Women in Web3 CH, fostering more discussions, discipline and inclusion.

Common sense says to hold your best back. This is completely backwards. Give your best often and you build your network. Here's how I like to do it: 1. Write extremely helpful posts. Think about the people you hope to impact. What are their hope, fears, obstacles, obsessions? Write to them. Write for them. Share what you know with no expectation. 2. Comment freely and joyfully. When someone shares something you love, tell them why it impacted you. Add a valuable insight. Share their work with others. 3. Make connections. Connect the people you know with the people who will benefit them. Make your network available to others. Put your connections to work. You'll never regret adding value to another person.

I strongly and firmly believe that staying curious is the key. As Albert Einstein said: “The most important thing is to never stop questioning” That being applied in so many industries, including the creative and entertainment industries or journalism. Curiosity drives journalists to ask insightful questions and further find the most accurate answers. When it comes to networking and building connections it is vital to ask background information and look at different perspectives from different angles. Last but not least, it is important for a journalist to actively engage in constructive conversations fostering dialogue on various topics and gather leads for stories.

I strongly and firmly believe that staying curious is the key. As Albert Einstein said: “The most important thing is to never stop questioning” That being applied in so many industries, including the creative and entertainment industries or journalism. Curiosity drives journalists to ask insightful questions and further find the most accurate answers. When it comes to networking and building connections it is vital to ask background information and look at different perspectives from different angles. Last but not least, it is important for a journalist to actively engage in constructive conversations fostering dialogue on various topics and gather leads for stories.

Relationships are the key to everything you want to accomplish. But there's a right way and a wrong way to build a networking relationship. The wrong way is self-serving, manipulative, always asking and never giving, transactional, and uncomfortable. The right way is generous, kind, encouraging, inspirational, looking out for others, making connections, adding value, and giving without expecting in return. "Collect" the type of relationships that are good people, doing good things in the world. Refer these people to others. Give freely. When you do, the best opportunities will find you. Count on it.

This platform is a fantastic way to build relationships. The people you connect with and follow are your teachers and guides. You can learn from them and help them grow in their area of influence. You can write recommendations, highlight what they mean to you in a post, forward their podcast episode, and be supportive. A rising tide lifts all boats. Be an encourager here and you'll watch your network grow.