If you’re an introvert like me, the word “networking” conjures visions of wandering awkwardly around a cocktail party where you don’t know another soul, trying to make small talk, because everything you’ve read tells you networking is beneficial for your business, all the while wishing you were at home sitting in front of your fireplace wearing comfy leggings.
Frankly, I used to despise the idea of networking but I’ve come to realize that it can be so much more than small talk with other professionals at the occasional social gathering. I cherish deep, meaningful relationships with small groups of people, and I’ve found a way to create these types of networking relationships.
I started a local networking group made up of four professional photographers a little over a year ago, and it’s been so beneficial for all of us. We meet once a month for about 2.5 hours, and it makes the journey as an entrepreneur far less lonely. While some of these benefits apply to local in-person groups, you could still gain a lot from networking with a small group that meets or communicates virtually.
Here are some amazing benefits of networking with other photography professionals:
1. Business advice and problem-solving
Probably the most obvious benefit to networking with other photographers is they understand and have similar struggles when it comes to running a business. Putting several heads together to help solve each other’s problems can be so beneficial to all parties involved. Do you ever notice how it can be so difficult to put your foot down or stand your ground when the client is yours, but when asked for advice about a similar problem that you have no attachment to, you can approach the situation with a lot more clarity and objectivity? We’ve tackled all kinds of issues ranging from client communication, website re-design, and revising our pricing and services.
2. Skill sharing and education
Chances are each photographer brings a unique skill set, and it’s great to leverage each other’s strengths. I’ve fine tuned my off-camera lighting, learned tips for using Instagram in my business, and even learned how to write better goals and objectives (from one of the women in our group with a Masters in Teaching!).
3. Fun! Plus emotional and life support
We celebrate our successes and together lament our failures and rejections. One member of the group reminded me recently that if we’re not experiencing rejection regularly, we’re not putting ourselves out there enough. Touché. We’ve developed friendships, so naturally, we share and support each other in all areas of life, not just our photography businesses. Happy hours, birthday dinners, and shooting excursions happen regularly.
4. Give and receive referrals
This really works well when members of the group shoot slightly different genres. We represent the artistic gamut ranging from studio posed newborn work to documentary day-in-the-life sessions. A referral is so much more likely to lead to a booking when you can give one or two names, PLUS the reasons you’d hire that photographer yourself, as opposed to giving a long list of names and websites.
5. Show and share product samples
Who doesn’t love the opportunity to touch and examine product samples from various professional labs without having to order them all yourself? Huge perk!
6. Goal setting and growth
We set goals and keep each other accountable. These goals can be personal, professional, or artistic. I can’t emphasize enough the importance of a space where vulnerability and authenticity rule, allowing us to become closer versions of our best selves. Every month we each make a “commitment to stretch”, which means something different for each person. Then we eagerly look forward to checking back in with each other in a month.
What are your favorite things about networking with other professionals? Share with me in the comments!
