Author: Jennifer

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.

Unlocking Your Potential – Complete a Creative Skills Audit

In today’s dynamic job market, creative professionals must be more than just imaginative. Whether you’re an aspiring designer, filmmaker, writer, or artist, your success depends heavily on a diverse skill set that goes beyond traditional creative abilities. Transferable skills – skills that apply across roles and industries – are vital for sustaining a long-term creative career. Understanding these skills and evaluating which you have lots of and which can be improved can help you grow, pivot, and thrive in the ever-evolving creative landscape.

What Are Transferable Skills in Creative Careers?

Transferable skills are abilities you develop through various life experiences-education, work, volunteering, and personal projects that are valuable in different job roles and industries. In creative careers, these skills are essential for collaboration, problem-solving, managing projects, and navigating uncertainty.

People often develop valuable transferable skills in non-creative industries that can seamlessly support a creative career. For example, working in hospitality helps build strong communication, time management, and problem-solving abilities—skills crucial for managing clients, meeting deadlines, and collaborating on creative projects. Teamwork in a fast-paced environment, handling difficult customers, or managing shifts are experiences that demonstrate resilience, adaptability, and leadership. When talking about these experiences, focus on how the skill was developed and how it applies to creative work. For instance, rather than simply saying “I worked in a bar,” you might say, “My experience managing customer interactions in a busy restaurant sharpened my communication and multitasking skills, which I now use when coordinating production timelines and working with diverse teams in creative settings.”

Key Transferable Skills for Creative Professionals

1. Personal Attributes

These include persistence, resilience, and self-confidence-traits that help you stay focused, bounce back from setbacks, and remain motivated through challenging projects.

2. People Skills

Effective communication, relationship-building, and networking are vital for creative collaboration and career advancement.

3. Employability Skills

Skills like initiative, problem-solving, strategic thinking, and time management ensure you can independently manage workloads and deliver value across different contexts.

4. Technical and Practical Skills

Even creatives must master tools of the trade-whether it’s design software, basic accounting, or social media marketing. These practical skills directly support creative output and business growth.

How to Complete a Creative Skills Audit

To truly understand your strengths and development areas, completing a creative skills audit is essential. Using a structured tool like the Creative Careers Skills Audit document, you can self-assess and reflect on your current capabilities. Here’s a simple Step-by-Step Guide:

DOWNLOAD THE SKILLS AUDIT TEMPLATE

1. Review the Skills Categories

The audit is divided into four main sections: Personal Attributes, People Skills, Other Employability Skills, Technical and Practical Skills

2. Rate Your Proficiency

Use a 1-5 scale: (1 = Not yet developed, 5 = Highly proficient). Be honest – this is about identifying growth areas, not just showcasing strengths.

3. Provide Evidence

For each skill, include a specific example that demonstrates how you’ve used it. For instance: Persistence (4): Completed a year-long independent documentary despite limited funding and setbacks.

4. Identify Patterns

After completing all sections, look for clusters: Are you strong in personal attributes but lacking in technical skills? Is time management an issue across multiple roles?

5. Set Development Goals

Use your audit to set SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals. For example: “Improve my financial skills by completing an online course in creative budgeting by December.”

Why It Matters

A creative skills audit isn’t just a one-off task-it’s a career habit. It keeps you accountable, self-aware, and agile. By recognising which transferable skills are your strengths and which need development, you can seek opportunities that stretch your abilities, apply for roles with confidence, and future-proof your creative journey. Whether you’re just starting out or navigating a mid-career shift, understanding and cultivating transferable skills is the key to unlocking your full potential in the creative industries. Revisit your audit every 6-12 months. Track your progress, update your evidence, and evolve with your creative goals.

Building a Social Media Portfolio

Social media can play a huge role in promoting your work and being found. In a time when most of the population consume digital content regularly, it allows you to reach a whole new audience quickly; whether you’re an artist taking commissions or a writer producing their own play and trying to sell tickets. Alongside your website (how to build a portfolio website), your social media can double as your portfolio, especially in the early stages of your creative career. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are already where a lot of creative discovery happens. You can use them to build a visual identity, show off your process, and attract people who might want to hire or collaborate with you.

Think of your feed as a curated space — like a gallery or sketchbook. You don’t need a polished client list to make it look professional. You just need intention, clarity, and a little consistency.

If you don’t have an existing portfolio of your work, find out how to start your own portfolio here.

Instagram Tips

Instagram is still one of the best places for visual portfolios. To use it as a creative portfolio:

Even if you’re still building a body of work, you can post:

TikTok Tips

TikTok is great if you want to show off your process and personality — and get discovered organically. You don’t need to go viral. Just start showing up.

A few strong videos that showcase your work and vibe can go a long way toward getting seen — even by people outside your immediate network.

What About Facebook?

Facebook isn’t as portfolio-friendly visually, but:

A Few Things to Keep in Mind:

Social media doesn’t have to be stressful or perfect. If you treat it like a creative space, not just a marketing tool, it becomes part of your portfolio — and a way to invite people into your world.

Build a Following (Without Feeling Awkward About It)

You don’t need a massive following to get freelance work or build your creative portfolio — but growing an engaged, genuine audience can help open doors, connect with other creatives, and even attract clients organically.

To build a following that actually cares about your work and engages with your content:

Ask Friends and Family to Follow You – Friends and Family will want to suppor your work. Follow them and see if they follow back, message them and ask them to give you a follow (it doesn’t cost them anything), or use the ‘Invite Friends’ feature on Facebook. Make sure your phone number is attached to the account so you pop up in their ‘suggested accounts’ too.

Show up consistently – You don’t have to post every day. But posting consistently (a few times a week or even once a week) keeps you visible and helps people get familiar with your work.

Share your process – People love to see how things are made. Try posting sketches, drafts, behind-the-scenes clips, your workspace or tools, or Timelapse’s.

Talk about what you’re doing and why – Add a bit of story to your work so people feel like they’re getting to know you: “This was a practice at framing a subject”, “still figuring this one out, what do you think?”, etc

Engage with others – Reply to comments, share what you think on other people’s work, share people’s posts in your stories (with credit), etc. If you supprt others, they’ll support you.

Remind people what you do – Repeat your creative identity often, using your captions and bio e.g. “headshot photographer available in Birmingham” (how to find your niche)

Try trends (authentically) – Join in on trends if they genuinely interest you, especially on TikTok or Reels. But don’t feel pressure to force it if they don’t feel the right fit. Add your spin or twist to fit your niche.

Make it easy to follow or contact you – Pin your best work, link to your shop, commission form, or full portfolio, and tell people how to work with you or where to see more.

Don’t chase numbers – You don’t need 10k followers to get work. A small, focused audience of people who get what you do and engage with content (liking, commenting, sharing to their story, etc) is much more powerful and converts to meaningful engagement, commissions, purchases, etc more easily. Growth take time!

Content Creation Tips:

Promotion Strategy:

Final Reminders

With a professional looking portfolio, there’s no need to delay. Get started on shouting about your work now.

Remember:

How to Create a Portfolio Website

Whether you’re a director, illustrator, filmmaker, writer, or any other type of creative, a strong online presence is essential. Your portfolio website helps people understand who you are, what you make, and how to work with you—even if you’re just starting out.

This guide walks you through building your online creative portfolio in three stages, how to create a portfolio even if you don’t have much paid client work, and how to communicate your creative identity clearly and confidently.

Stage 1: The Link Tree (Your Starter Presence)

This is your quick-start option. Use a free link-in-bio platform like Linktree to organise and share your best work and contact information.

What to Include:

How to Build It:

Stage 2: Basic Website Portfolio

If you’re looking for a more detailed option, explore building a portfolio website using platforms like Squarespace or Wix. These platforms are free to get started with and are great to use if you just want a direct link to send to potential clients, but they have a yearly cost (approx £100) if you want your website to show up on Google or to have a custom domain (e.g. yourname.com)

What to Include:

How to Build It:

Stage 3: Comprehensive Website

If you’re looking to create a fully comprehensive home base for your work as a freelance creative, you’ll want to create a detailed website in a similar way to above (with a paid for domain), packed full of your work and experience, and a shop front for your business.

What to Include:

How to Build It:

Don’t Have an Existing Portfolio?

If you don’t have an existing portfolio, don’t panic. There are plenty of ways to showcase your work, even if it isn’t paid or for real clients. You might choose to showcase:

How to Talk About Your Work:

Be honest and confident. Instead of pretending the work you’ve done is for a client, frame it as:
“A hypothetical branding project for a fictional family-run bakery.”
“A musical response to my feelings about [insert recent event]”
“A photo exhibiton based around the theme of family and age differences, using my siblings as models”

Supplement your website with social media

Finished your website portfolio? Now find out how to support it with social media.

Where to find Jobs and Opportunities

Breaking into the creative industries can feel like navigating a maze where it’s a struggle to even find the entrance. There are plenty of opportunity out there, but knowing where to find them is a challenge. Here’s a few of our recommended platforms dedicated to helping creatives find meaningful work, internships, freelance gigs, and career resources in the arts and creative sectors.

Arts Jobs

Run by Arts Council England, this platform is a staple for anyone seeking roles in the UK’s arts and culture sector. From theatre and dance to museums and visual arts, Arts Jobs offers opportunities at all levels. It’s especially valuable for early-career artists and administrators.

Creative Access

With a mission to support under-represented talent, Creative Access partners with major employers to offer inclusive internships and roles in media, publishing, and the arts. The platform also provides mentoring, masterclasses, and career development tools.

Mandy

Aimed at performers, production crew, and voiceover artists, Mandy connects creatives with casting calls, film jobs, and theatre gigs worldwide. You can create a profile, upload reels, and apply directly to roles in acting, film, TV, and more.

Spotlight

Spotlight is the leading casting platform in the UK, used by casting directors in film, TV, theatre, and commercials. Actors can create profiles, be scouted by agents, and apply directly for professional roles. A must-have for any performer aiming to work at a professional level.

Spotlight requires either formal training or 2 professional credits (find out more here). Book a chat for more advice on how to get started with this.

If You Could Jobs

This platform offers roles across the creative sector, along with discussions about current topics and conversations around the creative working world in the site’s Journal.

OpenHire

A platform aimed at freelance work, focused on transparency and equity, OpenHire encourages inclusive hiring practices in the arts and cultural sectors.

Arts Marketing Association (AMA)

AMA is a go-to hub for professionals in arts marketing, audience development, and digital engagement. Alongside their career development opportunities, their job board highlights specialist marketing roles at arts venues, festivals, and cultural institutions across the UK.

LinkedIn

LinkedIn is essential for professional networking and job hunting. Follow creative agencies, arts organisations, and people doing your dream role (and ask them for a Zoom call to learn more). Post about your portfolio and recent achievements to build a presence.

ERIC App

ERIC is tailored for Gen Z creatives and entry-level talent. The app offers creative career advice, industry events, job alerts, and internship opportunities in media, fashion, design, and more. It’s ideal for those just getting started.

Guardian Jobs – Arts & Heritage

The Guardian’s job section is known for high-quality listings in journalism, education, and arts. Their Arts & Heritage section often features roles in public engagement, curation, fundraising, and arts education.

Indeed

While it’s not niche-specific, Indeed hosts a wealth of creative jobs if you refine your search terms. Use filters like “creative director,” “copywriter,” or “arts administration” to dig into listings across sectors and locations.

BBC Careers

The BBC only list vacant opportunities on their own website, but these vacancies aren’t limited to TV production roles only, they also include roles within marketing, content creation, production, choirs and orchestras, and more. They also offer early career opportunities and guidance.

Arts Professional

Part of ArtsProfessional, Culture Jobs is a UK-focused platform highlighting a range of roles across different cultural organisations. Sign up for a weekly newsletter of jobs and opportunities

The Dots

A professional networking platform for creatives that features job listings, portfolio showcases, and collaboration opportunities.

Stage 32

Stage 32 works with over 2,000 industry executives and has been recognized by Forbes magazine as the leading source for educating film, television and new media creatives through our Next Level webinars, classes and labs.

Design Jobs Board

A platform focused on UK-based jobs in graphic, UX, and product design.

Arts Emergency

Arts Emergency is an award-winning mentoring charity and support network. We work long-term with under-resourced young people in London, Greater Manchester and Merseyside.

Musical Theatre Network (MTN) & Mercury Musical Developments (MMD)

If you’re a writer, composer, lyricist, or producer working in musical theatre, MTN and MMD are fantastic places to start. They run showcases, labs and networking events to help new musicals get seen and supported. Membership gives access to mentoring, feedback and the BEAM Festival – a major platform for new British musicals.

BFI (British Film Institute)

The BFI supports the UK’s film and screen industries with funding, training and career development. From production grants and short film schemes to major talent programmes, it’s a go-to hub for anyone interested in film, TV or digital storytelling.

ScreenSkills

ScreenSkills helps people get into and progress within the UK’s screen industries. They offer practical training, bursaries and schemes like Trainee Finder – connecting emerging talent with real productions across film, TV and animation.

The Stage

A long-running theatre publication, The Stage is one of the best places to find performing arts jobs, auditions and industry news. Their jobs board and newsletter are must-reads for actors, stage managers and backstage professionals alike.

Help Musicians UK

A charity dedicated to supporting musicians across genres, Help Musicians offers grants, mentoring and advice to help you record, release and develop your music. Ideal for early-career artists and those funding creative projects.

Youth Music

Youth Music funds and champions projects that give young people access to making and learning music. They support organisations and individuals working with children and young people in creative and inclusive ways.

PRS Foundation

The PRS Foundation funds new music and helps artists grow their careers. Through open grants and partnership schemes, they support recording, touring and collaborative projects across all genres.

Arts Council England – Project Grants

ACE’s National Lottery Project Grants support creative ideas from individuals and organisations. Whether you’re planning a new show, exhibition or community arts project, this is one of the UK’s key funding routes.

Arts Council England – Developing Your Creative Practice (DYCP)

DYCP offers individual artists and creatives funding to take time out for research, training or experimentation. It’s designed to help you grow professionally and develop your next big idea.

UnLtd

If your creative project also has a social mission, UnLtd could be the perfect fit. They support social entrepreneurs with funding, mentoring and advice to help turn community-focused ideas into reality.

Get Into Theatre

Get Into Theatre is a UK-wide platform dedicated to helping people launch careers in theatre. It offers job and training listings, industry profiles, interviews, funding and apprenticeship opportunities, all tailored to the theatre ecosystem. With a strong focus on helping you “Get Training”, “Get Experience” and “Get Funding”, it’s a go-to resource for anyone looking for creative work behind-the-scenes, on stage or in technical roles.

National Centre for Writing

The National Centre for Writing (NCW) is based in Norwich and champions contemporary writing, literary translation and creative practice. It runs mentoring schemes, residencies, training and other opportunities for writers and translators at all stages. Perfect for creatives exploring writing, publishing, or literary careers.

Creative Mentor Network

Creative Mentor Network supports 16- to 25-year-olds from lower socio-economic backgrounds to develop creative industry careers through mentoring, training, job listings and networking. Partnering with major creative brands, CMN offers valuable connections and guidance to help young people access jobs and internships across the creative sector.

I Like Networking

I Like Networking (ILN) is a career platform and community that champions women and non-binary professionals in the creative industries. Through mentoring programmes, career development resources, events and a vibrant online network, ILN helps creatives build confidence, expand their professional connections, and discover new job and collaboration opportunities.

Creative Lives in Progress

Creative Lives in Progress is a UK-based resource and community for emerging creative professionals. It curates opportunities (jobs, internships, events) as well as career-guidance content designed to help creatives access, understand and connect with the industry. A must-visit if you’re looking for work, advice and inspiration in design, media, or the arts.

TheatreCraft

TheatreCraft is the UK’s largest free careers event for young people interested in theatre, but not necessarily in acting. It showcases a huge range of backstage, technical, and offstage roles, from lighting design to producing, costume, and marketing. The annual event includes workshops, talks, and networking opportunities with leading industry professionals, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring a creative career in theatre production and beyond.

Opportunity Tuesday

A weekly Substack newsletter curated to share job listings, calls for artists, funding, and various creative-sector opportunities. A handy digest to keep up with new roles across the arts and creative industries.

Young Arts Fundraisers (YAF)

A peer-led professional network for early-career fundraisers in the arts sector. They run a year-round programme of events (workshops, Q&As, speed mentoring) and an annual “Evolve” mentoring scheme for those in their first 5 years of fundraising.

Artsadmin Anchor

A weekly digest that shares curated listings on funding, commissions, jobs, open calls, workshops, courses, and more. Their Anchor Directory is also a searchable contact hub (organisations, funders, studio spaces, etc.).

The creative industries are full of vibrant, diverse opportunities, if you know where to look. Whether you’re seeking your first design internship or a career on stage, these platforms offer access to the tools and opportunities to help you thrive.

Don’t forget: the creative job search is also about community. Engage with these platforms, attend events, join networks, and keep your portfolio up to date. The right opportunity could be just a click away.

Book a Chat & Get Advice and Support

Looking for new opportunities, need support with a personal project, or just after some advice?


Book a short, informal chat with the RicNic team to get unstuck, ask questions, and explore your next steps. We support people at all stages, offering guidance on career planning, freelancing, opportunity-hunting, CV reviews, and more.

“I left the session feeling both inspired and much clearer about how to move forward”

Our team brings broad experience from across the creative sector, alongside a wide network of industry professionals who are happy to offer mentoring, shadowing, or a useful chat. We’ll help point you towards relevant opportunities and, using proven coaching techniques, support you to clarify your goals and leave with clear, practical next steps.

“It was reassuring and exciting to see how my long-term ambitions can be approached strategically rather than feeling overwhelming.”

From 2026, sessions will cost £10 for a 30–45 minute chat, including follow-up resources and signposting. This helps us cover our costs, but we don’t want payment to be a barrier to access.

Sessions are free for:

Please note:

Chats are subject to staffing availability and capacity, with a limited quota per month. Our target age range for these chats is 16-25, however if you are outside of this age range and feel that you would benefit from a chat, you are welcome to book one. For under 18s, we request that an adult is present in the room in which you are making the call for safeguarding reasons.



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