Month: July 2025

How to Network at Events (Even When They’re Not “Networking” Events)

Your guide to making meaningful creative connections without the awkwardness

Whether you’re a student just stepping into the creative industries, an early-career artist, designer, writer, performer or filmmaker, or an experienced creative, you’ve probably heard that networking is important. But it can feel intimidating, awkward, and a bit forced, especially if you’re not at an event specifically labelled as a networking event.

The good news is that networking doesn’t have to mean handing out business cards or making awkward small talk. In fact, some of the best networking happens in casual, low-pressure moments after a talk, in a workshop, during a Q&A or even in the queue for coffee. These are opportunities to meet people, learn from them, and start building relationships that can support your creative journey.

This guide will help you confidently introduce yourself, start conversations, ask meaningful questions, get contact details and make connections that actually last.

Start With a Simple, Friendly Introduction

You don’t need a rehearsed pitch to network well. What matters more is being clear, approachable and honest when you introduce yourself. Keep it short and open-ended to invite the other person into the conversation.

For example, you could say:
“Hi, I’m Jack. I’m a photography student really into visual storytelling and documentary work. What about you?”
or
“Hey, I’m Sophie. I’m just starting out as a graphic designer. Are you working on anything exciting right now?”

You’re not there to sell yourself. Just be yourself, and be curious about the other person.

Not sure how to introduce yourself? Learn how to craft your elevator pitch

How to Start Conversations (Without Feeling Weird)

If you’re not sure how to approach someone at an event, use the setting as a natural conversation starter. Events give you a built-in reason to talk to people, whether it’s responding to what just happened or commenting on the space itself.

Here are a few reliable ways to get a conversation going:

It can feel easier to start by chatting with someone who is standing alone. Chances are, they’re hoping someone starts a conversation with them too.

How to Get Into a Conversation (Whether One-on-One or in a Group)

One of the trickiest parts of networking is figuring out how to actually begin talking to someone, especially if you’re at a busy event and everyone seems to already know each other. But there are ways to ease into conversations without interrupting or feeling like you’re intruding.

If you want to start a one-on-one chat, such as in the coffee queue or during a break, this is actually one of the easiest and most natural times to connect. You’re already side by side, and there’s a shared experience to comment on. Try saying something like:

Most people will welcome a bit of conversation, and if it flows, great. If not, it’s fine to move on with a polite smile.

If you’re looking to join a group conversation, it’s all about reading the room and approaching with friendliness. First, check the group’s body language. If they’re in a closed circle and seem deep in discussion, it might not be the best time. But if they’re loosely spaced, laughing or looking around the room, that’s usually an open invitation. Stand nearby, smile, and make eye contact with someone in the group. Often, people will instinctively open the space to include you. When there’s a natural pause, you can say something like:
“Mind if I join you?”
or
“Hi, I’m [Name]. I heard something about [topic]; I’m really interested in that too.”
or
“Just jumping in, what are we talking about?”

If one person in the group looks a little quieter or newer, try standing closer to them. They’re often the most likely to help include you.

Make sure your body language is open too; keep your head up, your arms wide, and look up (put your phone away). Closed-off body language makes it look as if you aren’t open to being approached, making it harder to find yourself in conversation.

Who to Approach (Hint: It’s Not Just the Headliners)

It can be tempting to focus only on meeting the big names at an event, such as the keynote speakers, panelists or organisers. But don’t underestimate the value of your peers. The people sitting next to you in the audience could become future collaborators, mentors or friends. In fact, one of the best times to start a conversation is with the person you’re sat next to, and often you can end up spending time with them throughout the day and begin a deep conversation.

That said, if there’s someone you really admire, there’s nothing wrong with introducing yourself briefly and respectfully. A quick comment like:
“Thanks for your talk. I’m just starting out, and your story really resonated with me. I’d love to follow your work. Would it be alright if I connect with you on LinkedIn or Instagram?”
is a professional and memorable way to make contact.

What to Ask (And What to Avoid)

Once the conversation is going, avoid overthinking it. Just be curious and interested. Some good open-ended questions include:

Ask follow-up questions and make notes of specific resources, companies, etc that are recommended to you. Try not to come across as transactional or self-serving. Avoid asking for jobs, introductions or favours on the spot. Focus instead on building a relationship, not extracting something.

How to Keep the Connection Going

After a good conversation, don’t let the connection fade. Before you part ways, ask if they’d be open to staying in touch. That could be through LinkedIn, Instagram, email or another platform.

Once you’re connected, send a short message the next day. Thank them for the conversation, remind them who you are, and, if relevant, share something you talked about. If it feels appropriate, check in a few weeks later with a small update or quick hello.

A thoughtful follow-up stands out more than a business card ever could.

Bonus Tips

Networking if You’re Neurodivergent or Naturally Introverted

If you’re neurodivergent or naturally introverted, networking can bring unique challenges, whether it’s sensory overload, social fatigue, challenges in approaching new people, or simply needing more time to process interactions. It’s important to remind yourself that networking doesn’t have to look one specific way.

Start small and give yourself permission to go at your own pace. You don’t have to speak to everyone or stay for the whole event. If you only talk to one person and that’s all you have capacity for, that is completely valid and valuable. One authentic conversation is often more powerful than several rushed ones.

It’s okay to take breaks, find quiet corners or step outside when you need to recharge. If a venue is loud and overstimulating, don’t be afraid to ask the person you’re talking to to speak louder or move the conversation to a different venue (a foyer space, quiet corner, or outdoor area). You can also follow up online after the event. Even if you didn’t talk to someone in person, a thoughtful message on LinkedIn or Instagram can open the door to connection.

Don’t feel guilty for not doing more. Everyone has different social energy levels and needs. You’re allowed to protect yours. Being thoughtful, observant and intentional in how you connect is just as valuable as being outgoing or visible. Networking isn’t about volume, it’s about finding your people in a way that works for you.

Final Thoughts

The creative industries thrive on connection. Talent matters, but people matter more. The best opportunities often come through conversation, collaboration and community. So don’t wait for the perfect networking event; treat every workshop, panel or forum as a chance to connect.

You don’t need to be the loudest voice in the room. Just be open, kind and curious. That’s more than enough.

Looking to find out more? Check out this guide from Creative Lives In Progress with some more ideas, a guide on How To Take The Cringe out of Networking or How to Network Virtually from Creative Access, or explore Leil Lowndes’ book How To Talk To Anyone for more advice on starting conversations and building connection.

Nailing the Interview: A Beginner’s Guide to Creative Sector Job Interviews

Interviews are your chance to showcase your skills, experience, and interests. You’ve made it through the initial application and shortlisting process, so the recruiters are clearly interested in you. Now it’s time for you to advocate for your work and skills, and for them to find out if you’re the right fit for the role (and indeed if the company is the right fit for you). Here’s what you might encounter, and how to tackle it.

How to Talk About Your Skills and Experience

Even if you are just starting out, you have skills and experiences worth sharing. Whether your background comes from school, personal projects, volunteering, or freelance work, the key is to frame your experience confidently.

Tips for Framing Your Experience:

Practice with Mock Interviews

If you’ve never had a job interview before, mock interviews can make a big difference. Practicing with friends, classmates, or family helps you get used to the structure of an interview and build confidence.

How to Run a Mock Interview:

Sample Mock Interview Questions:

Body Language and Confidence

Non-verbal communication plays a huge role in how you are perceived. Even if you feel nervous, strong body language can help you appear more confident.

Body Language Tips:

Speech Clarity and Professional Language

Speaking clearly is just as important as what you say. In creative interviews, you want to sound both professional and authentic.

How to Improve Speech Clarity:

After the Interview

Each interview is a learning opportunity. Whether or not you get the job, take a few minutes afterward to reflect.

Ask yourself:

If you receive a ‘no’ to your application, always send a thank you email and ask for feedback.

Final Thoughts

Interviews are a chance to show your skills, your thinking, and your personality. With preparation, practice, and a little support from friends or mentors, you can turn your inexperience into a strength. Focus on what makes your creative voice unique, and learn from every step of the process. You don’t need to be perfect—just prepared, honest, and eager to grow.

Showcasing Transferable Skills: How to Highlight Them in Your CV and Cover Letter

In today’s dynamic job market, many professionals find themselves navigating multiple industries or shifting roles within the creative sector. Whether you’re moving from graphic design to UX, journalism to content marketing, or theatre to project management, transferable skills are your secret weapon.

But what exactly are transferable skills, and how do you showcase them effectively in your CV and cover letter? Let’s dive in.

What Are Transferable Skills?

Transferable skills are abilities and strengths that you can apply across different roles, industries, and work environments. They are not tied to a specific job title or technical expertise but instead reflect how you work, communicate, solve problems, and interact with others.

Examples of transferable skills in creative careers include:
– Communication (verbal, written, visual)
– Project management
– Team collaboration
– Creative problem-solving
– Research and analysis
– Time management
– Client relationship management

Why Transferable Skills Matter in Creative Careers

Creative industries are constantly evolving. New platforms, tools, and mediums emerge regularly, making adaptability essential. Employers value individuals who can pivot, learn quickly, and bring a broad set of capabilities to the table.

For example, a theatre producer may transition into event management, a journalist may shift into digital content strategy, or a photographer may move into branding and marketing. In each case, the underlying skills (planning, storytelling, audience understanding, and attention to detail) remain highly relevant.

How to Highlight Transferable Skills in Your CV

1. Tailor Your Skills Section

List relevant transferable skills explicitly, using keywords from the job description. For example:
Key Skills:
– Creative storytelling
– Deadline management
– Visual communication
– Stakeholder engagement

2. Show Evidence in Your Experience

Instead of listing job duties, highlight achievements that demonstrate your transferable skills. For instance:
“Led a cross-functional team to deliver a multimedia campaign on a tight deadline, resulting in a 20% increase in engagement.”

3. Use a Professional Summary

At the top of your CV, include a brief summary that ties together your experience and transferable strengths:
“Creative professional with a background in visual design and digital marketing, bringing strong project management, communication, and storytelling skills to drive audience engagement.”

How to Talk About Transferable Skills in Your Cover Letter

Your cover letter is the ideal place to connect the dots between your past experience and the role you’re applying for:

1. Start with Your Why

Explain why you’re interested in the role and how your background brings unique value.

2. Tell a Story

Share a brief example of a past project or achievement that highlights relevant transferable skills.

3. Link to the Role

Show how these skills will help you succeed in the position you’re applying for.

Example:

“In my role as a magazine editor, I honed my storytelling, project management, and team leadership skills, all of which I am excited to bring to the content strategist position at your organisation.”

In Conclusion

Transferable skills are the threads that tie your experiences together and make you a versatile candidate in the creative industries. By presenting these skills thoughtfully in your CV and cover letter (and at interview), you can position yourself for exciting new opportunities, no matter where your creative journey takes you.

Ready to find your transferable skills? Complete your Creative Careers Skills Audit here!

Pricing Your Work as a Freelancer in the Creative Industries

In the ever-evolving world of creative freelancing, one of the most challenging aspects for many is pricing their work effectively. Whether you’re a graphic designer, writer, illustrator, photographer, or any other creative professional, setting the right price for your services is crucial not just for your livelihood but also for your confidence, reputation, and career sustainability.

Here’s a practical guide to help you navigate the often tricky waters of freelance pricing in the creative industries.

1. Understand Your Costs

Before setting any price, calculate your overheads. These include:
– Software subscriptions (Adobe Creative Cloud, Canva Pro, etc.)
– Hardware (laptops, cameras, tablets)
– Internet and phone bills
– Office space (home office costs or co-working space)
– Insurance
– Professional development (courses, workshops)
This will give you a baseline figure for the minimum income you need to cover your expenses.

2. Define Your Value

Pricing isn’t just about costs; it’s also about the value you bring to the client. Ask yourself:
– How experienced am I?
– What unique skills or perspectives do I offer?
– How will my work benefit the client (increased sales, better engagement, improved brand image)?
Don’t undervalue yourself by focusing solely on how long something takes. Clients pay for results, expertise, and creativity.

3. Research Market Rates

Spend time investigating what others in your field and region are charging. Resources include:
– Industry surveys
– Freelance communities (Reddit, Facebook groups, LinkedIn)
– Professional organizations
This will help you set a price that’s competitive without undercutting or overpricing yourself.

4. Choose the Right Pricing Model

There are several ways to price creative work:
– Hourly Rate: Useful for ongoing projects but may not reflect the value of creative deliverables.
– Per Project Fee: Common for defined projects like logos, articles, or illustrations.
– Retainer Agreements: Ideal for clients who need ongoing work each month.
– Value-Based Pricing: Pricing based on the impact or value your work provides to the client.
Often a mix of these models is most effective.

5. Communicate Clearly

When presenting your pricing to a client:
– Break down the deliverables and timeline.
– Clarify what is and isn’t included.
– Specify payment terms (deposits, milestone payments, final payment).
Professionalism and transparency reduce misunderstandings and build trust.

6. Be Prepared to Negotiate (or Walk Away)

Clients may negotiate—that’s natural. Be open but set boundaries. Know your minimum acceptable rate and don’t be afraid to decline work that undervalues you. Walking away from underpaid work leaves space for better opportunities.

7. Review and Adjust Regularly

Pricing isn’t static. As your skills grow, your portfolio strengthens, and your reputation builds, regularly review and increase your rates to reflect your enhanced value.

Final Thoughts

Pricing your work as a freelancer in the creative industries is both an art and a science. It takes time to find the right balance, but with clear thinking, research, and self-belief, you can create a pricing structure that supports your creative journey and your financial well-being.

Remember: You are not just selling time. You are selling talent, vision, and impact. Price accordingly.

How to Invoice Like a Pro: A Freelancer’s Guide

You’ve nailed the project. The client’s thrilled. Now comes the fun part; getting paid. But if the word “invoice” confuses you, you’re not alone. Invoicing might not be glamorous, but it’s your gateway to financial freedom and earning money for your work. Done right, it keeps your business flowing smoothly. Done wrong (or forgotten altogether) it can delay payments and mess with your income streams. Let’s break it down into something painless and explore some free tools to help you get paid without the headaches.

What is an Invoice?

An invoice is a document that says “Here’s what I did, here’s how much you owe me, and here’s how and when to pay me”. Invoices can be sent either at the end of a project (the most common approach for one-off jobs), or in multiple stages for larger or longer projects (helping with cash flow and protecting you if timelines stretch longer than expected). Typically, in freelance work you won’t get paid without one.

An invoice should include your name or business name (and logo if you have one), your contact info, the client’s name and contact info, an invoice number (for tracking – choose whatever system works for you), the date of issue, a clear description of services (e.g. “Social media campaign – May 2025”), payment terms (e.g. “Due within 14 days”), the total amount due, and bank details or a payment link.

Always keep your invoices clear and professional; they’re legal documents that you may beed to refer to in future. Avoid vague lines like “Creative work – £500”, specify what work you’ve undertaken, how many days it’s taken if relevant, and any other costs agreed. E.g. 2 days Content Creation work @ £225/day = £450, 2 days train travel Birmingham to London @ £25/each = £50.

You can create an invoice with a variety of free online tools that make it effortless:

Crunch is a UK-based online accounting platform designed with freelancers and small businesses in mind. Their free accounting software includes easy invoicing with professional templates, automatic invoice numbering, client contact management, invoice sending, and tracking for who’s paid and who hasn’t.

Invoice Generator.com offers an easy template for one off jobs, but without payment tracking or automatic issuing.

Canva offers invoices that match your brand aesthetic, with free invoice templates you can customize and download.

Pro Tips for Invoicing Success

Invoice promptly. Don’t wait until “later.” Send it as soon as the work is done.

Set clear payment terms upfront. Avoid awkward conversations by putting it in your contract.

Follow up politely. A quick “just checking in” email 1-2 days after the due date is perfectly acceptable.

Stay organized. Use tools or spreadsheets to keep track of what’s been sent, paid, and overdue. —

Why Good Invoicing = Good Business

Invoicing isn’t just admin. It’s a reflection of your professionalism. Clear, well-designed invoices show clients that you’re serious, trustworthy, and ready to do business again. As a freelancer or creative pro, you wear a lot of hats. But “accountant” doesn’t have to be one of them.