Does anyone have any tips for making a career change? How do you make (meaningful) connections in an industry where you don't know anyone?!
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- your skills would work well in prop dressing for film — offer your self to a college with a short film module to do a couple for free, then you'll have stills and video to use for promotion / portflio — gluck!
- Thanks Tatiana! People are actually really nice and willing to help if you ask. Loads of people have replied to this question so just goes to show...! I always think: would I mind if someone messaged me for advice on retail careers? And I definitely wouldn’t!
- Honestly, this platform is one of the best ways to connect to people in any industry your not familiar with, as well as attending networking events to meet people in your chosen industry! Just put yourself out there & don't be afraid to message people asking for advice, you'd be surprised how friendly people are.
- Best way is to always immerse yourself in the world (aka industry) you're looking to dive in to, here are a few ways to consider!1. Look and keep an eye out for events on Eventbright, Facebook, The Dots, etc. It's a great way to see what's happening, meet people, and also gain some context in to the types of things your industry is in to / are doing. Note that event's are meant for relationship building. Focus on that, not pitching yourself. Build healthy connections with humans without any motive. Industry career's are a long game, so don't try to close with every conversation you have. Maybe remember what the people you meet are looking for, and if you can, at any point in the future, connect them with an opportunity that helps them!2. If you haven't yet, set up a LinkedIn profile, and engage as often as possible. That could mean connecting with people in an industry you're interested in that are actively posting related content, taking time to search the platform to see what others are talking about and liking / commenting on posts / other peoples comments - and get in to the conversation (aka creating progressive attention)3. Engage on Social Media (don't just be passive). Turn on notifications for profiles (people or companies), and comment on the posts, like other comments, and share insights that create value for others.4. You may think of opening up an Instagram profile that shares content related to the industry you're aiming towards. Share content, quotes, figures, industry news, etc. anything that would draw attention from the people you're looking to grab the attention from. It will also help you generate some market research. With this you'll have to develop a manual strategy (again, being passive doesn't build community).At the end of the day you never know who's attention you'll get, or when, and or how!Hope the above inspires new idea's to help you get connected, wishing you an abundant & progressive 2020!
- I think you just did something quite important to enter a new career, the fact of relating to other people in the same area to meet and seek an opinion is something relevant, and more so if it is a new change, someone mentioned that It is important to know and share your knowledge with other people, although we know that the creative market moves based on communication, using it is the best tool both at the beginning and in the development of their skills.I hope I've helped.
- Thanks for your comments guys! I’m from a creative retail background (window displays etc), looking for more live/creative/event production, maybe at a venue or festival. So lots of similar skills needed. Totally agree, face to face communication is the way forward!@therese, love the bit about finding your tribe...!
- There're different ways to go about it. I guess it depends on what kind of person you're and what drives you right now in this moment?Do you've the relevent skills for the field you're aiming for? And do you make sure to be up to date with how that field is evolving?Meaningful connection? I genuine belive, I know I might be naive, that almost everyone can be a meningful connection, if you let them. But not if you expect them to give you what you need, instead of letting them give you some unexpected. Above all see them.Don't be afraid for what you want. Contact the people: you admire: the ones you think you have something to offer. Find you're tribe of collaborators.
- Real-world meetups and networking is the best way so far.And, of course, if you're not only dreaming about it - results on your hands.
- Which direction are you looking to go? I just published The life of a designer sucks https://link.medium.com/gYVHovQQC2 Hopefully this will help till you know.
- Thank you so much this is all such good advice!
- Start by immersing yourself in the knowledge, the terminology, the hotspots that come with that industry. I find listening to audiobooks by bestsellers in the field is always a smart idea- there's so much hidden value!
- I changed from a career in science, admin and medicine to being a photographer and writer. It’s hard work. Keep at it, built a portfolio, meet people, shout out loud what you are today and put behind you your past. It’s worth the sacrifices. Work at it everyday and something will happen
- Thanks for your replies, really helpful! I need to be bold and put myself out there more, for sure!
- Hi Kelly...Try to meet as many people in person if possible... Meetup is a good route, and just be honnest with people about where you want to go or be... Good luck!!
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