Artist networking is a challenge for many artists starting an art business. Building new relationships can be difficult for some. In this post, you will discover different strategies that will help to make the process easier and more productive.
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By the end of this post, you will know….
- How to get your art noticed
- Networking for introverts
- Importance of an elevator pitch
- Where to purchase business cards
- Expand your network on social media
- Expand your network at local art groups
- How helping others will help you
Networking For Artist
What is networking for artists?
Networking means to make new friends and a way to connect with other artists.
Some people think that networking is pitching and selling themselves to others by passing out business cards with a fake smile.
In some ways, networking is pitching yourself as an artist, but it does not have to be awkward or uncomfortable.
Think of networking as making new friends.
Do you feel uncomfortable telling your friends you are an artist?
Do you share your new paintings or drawings with your friends?
The people you meet networking are just like your friends. The only difference is that they are artists just like you.
Why is it essential to build relationships with other artists?
Building relationships with other artists will open up new doors for you and take your art career to the next level.
How To Get Your Art Noticed
When you are just starting your art career, you have to get your name out there.
There are three ways you can introduce your artwork to art collectors and that is in person, referrals, and over the internet.
All three are equally important and you will want to devote time sharing your art to people in person as well as sharing images of your artwork online.
Networking with other artists will help you to speed up the process because you will have other people talking about you and your artwork.
You grow your art business faster with 10 people helping you than you doing it all by yourself.
You build a village with a tribe.
Artist Networking For Introverts
Some people have a difficult time starting conversations with people they do not know while others can talk to anyone and everyone.
When I was younger, I struggled with starting conversations with people I didn’t know.
But I knew that if I wanted to build an art career, I would have to learn how to feel comfortable meeting and talking with people I didn’t know.
It took some time getting used to introducing myself but as time went by it got more comfortable.
Today I can go up to anyone and start a conversation.
Jon Levy shared some valuable tips for introverts who are trying to network with others.
- Be yourself
- Redefine your approach
- Focus on remarkability
- Take bay steps
- Take advantage of the winner effect
- Tell yourself the right things
- Ask for a warm introduction
- If all else fail, outsource
To learn more visit – 8 Networking Tips For Introverts From A Superconnector
Have Your Elevator Pitch Ready
One of the most common questions you will hear when you meet someone is, “What do you do?”
This is a prime time to introduce someone new to your artwork.
It only takes a few seconds to tell someone who you are and what you do.
You do not have to sell yourself. All you have to do is share your story with them.
If they are interested, they will follow up with additional questions and at that point, you can provide more information about your art business.
Preparing for these encounters will help you to feel more comfortable if you are an introvert like I am.
Writing an elevator speech will prevent you from missing an opportunity to connect with a potential art collector.
An elevator speech is a sentence or two that explains who you are and what you do.
Take a few moments to write your elevator speech and practice saying it.
The next time someone asks, “What do you do?” you will be prepared and not look like a deer staring into headlights.
Related Post: How To Create An Elevator Pitch For Artists
Business Cards
Do you have business cards?
Business cards are affordable and a great way to make a favorable first impression.
People a lot of things on their minds, and if you think that someone you first meet will remember your website’s name, you are wrong.
Business cards make it easy for people to remember who you are and a way for them to contact you in the future.
Always have a stack of cards with you at all times, you never know when you will meet a future art collector.
Places to buy business cards:
Use Social Media To Showcase Your Artwork
Social media is a great platform to share your artwork and meet new people.
Search for artists on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter and start following them.
Share their art and comment on their posts.
In time they will start to recognize you and will want to learn more about you.
Before you know it, you will have an extensive list of artists who are helping you build your online audience.
Social media networking, combined with in-person networking, will dramatically increase your following.
Join Local Networking Groups
Joining local art groups will help you to meet local artists and is a great way to expand your network.
Not only will you meet local artists, but you have the opportunity to learn new art skills, learn art business skills, collaborate on events, help keep you motivated.
How to find local art groups:
- Local Facebook groups
- Local art newspapers
- Local events newspapers
- Meetup.com for art/craft groups
- Ask artists at local craft fairs
Artist Networking Basics – Helping Others Will Help You
People are more willing to help you if they see that you are supporting their art business.
Do not expect that everyone you meet will go out of their way to help you grow your art business.
Create relationships with people you connect with and support their goals.
Relationships are built off of trust and support.
When people notice that you are going out of your way to help them, they will return the favor.
Follow Up
Dedicate some time every month or two to connect with the people you meet. Over time you will have a handful of close friends who will be willing to help you reach your goals.
Return the favor by doing everything you can to support their dreams.
Conclusion:
Artist networking is connecting with people not selling to people.
You can build a successful art business faster with a tribe than you can alone.
Popular Art Marketing And Sales Tutorials
Below are some of the most famous art marketing courses that will grow your online art business:
Most Popular – How to Make a Living Selling What You Make by Megan Auman
Most Popular – Build a Successful Creative Blog by April Bowles-Olin
How to Build a Business While Learning Your Craft by Megan Auman
Pinterest Marketing for Makers & Designers by Megan Auman
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