From Dutch Design Week to Archtober: 5 Networking-Tipps for Design Events and Fairs
The next months are full of exciting and inspiring design events all over the world. Great opportunities to meet interesting people and make great business contacts - especially for young designers! But how to own design networking? We asked our experts to share their tipps below!
With the season of design weeks and design events in full swing, networking is on the horizon. If you’re new to the networking game, you might be asking yourself: How can I make a great first impression? Should I wait for someone to approach me or just strut right up to them? We asked the experts.
1. Start by designing yourself!
"I like to say that design is everything – and we do design everything around us. So if you want to make an impact in networking, start by designing yourself: just take the first step and let it rip!"
Henry Hongmin Kim, Head of Design Strategy at Samsung, read the full Article.
2. Go to the big events.
"As an individual designer, you’re able to have a direct dialogue with decisionmakers about design, which might even turn into your big break. In 2011, I went to the Salone del Mobile with my catalog in hand and someone suggested I speak with Nicola Repetti from DEDON. It turned out to be really the most important vehicle for launching my career."
Stephen Burks, owner and principal of Stephen Burks Man Made, NY, read the full Article.
3. Approach who you admire!
"Don't hesitate to approach those you admire: be bold in asking how they got to where they are. The insights you gain from their journey can be one of the most valuable lessons for your own growth."
Anuj Gala, lighting designer with experience in Europe, the US and India, read the full Article.
4. Rebuilt your network continually!
"For young designers it is essential to show your work in public, go to trade fairs, take part in competitions, and pitch! If you’re just leaving university, consider applying for a grant: most are only open to fresh graduates. Designers are constantly networking. Most people already have a deep network from university, then there are people you meet at events or exhibitions. But it doesn’t stop there: networks have to be continually rebuilt every three to five years. I also think that companies and designers need to be in close exchange –not just young designers."
Joa Herrenknecht, product and furniture designer who works in Berlin and Toronto and co-founder of the Matter of Course female design collective. Read the full Article.
5. Step outside your comfort zone!
"Design is about solving problems together, so connect with others, share ideas, and step outside your comfort zone to explore the unexpected."
Bruno Porto, Brazilian graphic designer, illustrator and educator, read the full Article.