Building a network is crucial for career advancement. What are some effective ways you’ve found to connect with professionals within your field in the UK, considering potential cultural differences in communication styles?  

I’m a big fan of Linkedin for professional networking. I keep my profile up to date, and often reach out ‘cold’ to people from whom I could learn. As you are a creative, sharing some work you’re proud of on social media could drive traffic to you, supporting you as you build a network.

With regards ‘style’ – the universal elements include being respectful of people’s time, clear (and realistic) with what you’re asking, and polite.

Many people on LinkedIn adhere to open-networking, so it’s not difficult to establish a solid base on which you can build. I’m always happy to introduce connections to each other.

I like to go to events or talks where I know I already have something in common with the people in the room – we work in the same sector, are facing a similar challenge, or it’s a dedicated networking event so you know everyone is there to do the same thing. I hear about these through Facebook groups, LinkedIn and mailing lists. In terms of meeting people from different cultures and/or who have different communication styles, then be open about yourself and curious about them, and I am sure you’ll be making connections in no time!

I agree with the advice about LinkedIn, I think it’s an excellent way to network but I advise being careful about who you ask to connect with. Initially, it’s a good idea to follow people rather than ask to connect – choose people who create content you are interested in and feel confident to make contributions to their posts. I’d also recommend feeling confident to post thoughts and ideas yourself – everyone has an opinion worth hearing, you don’t have to be an ‘expert’. Without doubt, you receive more attention when you post if you add a photo! Other than this, following thought leaders in your area on X is a good idea – it’s a better platform to use in this way than as a place for gossip and nonsense! So, in summary, follow, question, contribute, be brave!

My recommendation would be to connect with people on LinkedIn who are in the roles you are interested in. Connect with them and ask if they would be willing to offer any advise specific to the field you are most interested in. If they are unable to, at least you have expanded your network to include people in your area of interest. I’d also recommend connecting with people who work in Talent & Acquisition within companies and the fields you are interested in, ask for their advise and keep an eye out for relevant posts of theirs you can learn from and engage with.

I agree with the comments about events, keep an eye out for events you can attend. Don’t be too conscious about these being specifically focused on your area of interest, often meeting somebody and building a relationship can unlock doors to meaningful introductions.