Dear Creative Community,

Whether you’re a student or recent grad on the hunt for a job, the process can seem daunting. Networking is a powerful career tool that should be utilized before, during and after your classroom days.

With social media and in-person opportunities like AIGA events and happy hours, networking with design professionals is easier than ever. It has become a lifestyle, and with good reason — you never know who you might meet, who else they know, and what opportunities those connections could bring.

Here are a few tips to keep you on track:

• Attend networking events/groups where there are more adults vs. students in attendance. (Such as a CMYK in your area, these are open to all.)
• Connect with your professors and even alumni.
• Participate in our SPARK, one on one mentor program to help connect with a professional in your area and receive personable guidance.
• Equip yourself with business cards. Connect with others and take note of their names. They’ll be pleasantly surprised when you remember.
• Make sure you have a web presence, such as behance.net or personal URL, LinkedIn (more professional than facebook when networking) Attend one of our Portfolio Workshops for small group presentation on various topics that help you with your presence.
• Be professional at all times, whether asking for an informational interview or following up for event details.

Always remember to put your best foot forward. Listen and engage with others. Express opinions. Share thoughts and aspirations. Most importantly, start establishing those connections now — you’ll be a step ahead. It is never too early!