Whether you\u2019re an aspiring UX designer, a newcomer to the field or a seasoned professional, you\u2019ve probably been told at least once that networking is crucial. And you might not want to hear this but… it really is.<\/p>\n
We know that networking can be scary, especially in a fast-paced, ever-changing industry like UX design. But we also promise that it\u2019s worth it \u2014 and we\u2019re here to help you get started.<\/p>\n
All you need is our ultimate guide to UX networking, featuring:<\/p>\n
Keep reading and prepare to network like a pro.<\/p>\n [GET CERTIFIED IN UX]<\/p>\n Take our Professional Diploma in UX Design course<\/span>\n <\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n You might be surprised to learn that an estimated 60% of jobs<\/a> are found through networking. If you\u2019re new to the UX industry (or trying to break into it), this alone is a huge incentive to start making connections and growing your network. But finding potential job opportunities isn\u2019t the only benefit.<\/p>\n The real value in networking is that it helps you to build your very own community of people who you can learn from, get advice from and feel inspired by. It gives you first-hand insight into the UX industry, helping you to keep on top of what\u2019s happening in the field and continuously develop your skills.<\/p>\n At the same time, you\u2019ll get better and better at building relationships and communicating with different people in all areas of the industry \u2014 an extremely valuable skill that will carry through to your day-to-day work as a UX designer<\/a>.<\/p>\n And, because networking is a two-way street, it also gives you the opportunity to provide mentorship and be that source of advice and inspiration for others. This is extremely rewarding and you\u2019ll notice how quickly your confidence grows as a result.<\/p>\n Yes, networking can be scary and uncomfortable \u2014 but the long-term benefits are well worth the short-term fear. So where can you go for UX networking? Let\u2019s take a look.<\/p>\n There are plenty of places both online and offline where you can start making industry connections and growing your network. Here are our top UX networking destinations.<\/p>\n Twitter (and Twitter Spaces)<\/strong> We\u2019re not just talking about UX influencers<\/a>, although it\u2019s certainly worth following them to keep abreast of the industry. You can also find less “famous” voices within the Twitterverse by searching hashtags such as “UX” or “UX design”. This is a great way to get different perspectives on your radar and join conversations that you\u2019re interested in.<\/p>\n Another relatively new feature worth exploring is Twitter Spaces<\/a>. You can join audio conversations and hear others talk about UX-related topics live in realtime (think of it as a very small-scale, audio-only event). Use the Spaces feature in the Twitter app to search for upcoming UX talks and take the chance to connect with others who join the space.<\/p>\n LinkedIn<\/strong> Online communities<\/strong> The great thing about dedicated UX communities is that they\u2019re built with connecting and networking in mind, so the people in them are typically very open to engage. Find a few groups that interest you or feel geared towards your specific goals and start striking up some conversations.<\/p>\n Local and virtual meetups and events<\/strong> Search platforms like meetup<\/a> and eventbrite<\/a> to see what\u2019s going on in the UX world. You might find specific networking events for UX designers or broader industry events that will allow you to chat and connect with other attendees.<\/p>\n If in-person events feel a little too heavy, start with virtual events to build your confidence first.<\/p>\n Your current company<\/strong> We\u2019ve looked at where<\/em> you can network. Now let\u2019s consider how to network successfully.<\/p>\n [GET CERTIFIED IN UX]<\/p>\n Take our Professional Diploma in UX Design course<\/span>\n <\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n 1. Make sure you\u2019re ready to be seen<\/strong>Why is networking so important for your UX career?<\/h2>\n
Where to go for UX networking<\/h2>\n
\nIf you\u2019re active on Twitter, start following and engaging with people from the UX community.<\/p>\n
\nLinkedIn is essentially the go-to platform when it comes to professional networking. Use it to connect with and follow UX professionals and to join UX-related groups. You can find relevant groups by searching keywords such as “UX design”, “UX networking” or “UX for beginners”.<\/p>\n
\nIn addition to LinkedIn groups, there are lots of other online hubs and communities that are ideal for UX networking. Check out this round-up of 12 UX communities that are ready to welcome you<\/a>\u00a0and search the web for more.<\/p>\n
\nMeetups and events – both virtual and in-person – present another great networking opportunity.<\/p>\n
\nAre you working at a company that has a design team? Then start networking at work. Send a friendly message to the in-house designer(s) and ask if they have time for a twenty minute video call or a quick coffee break. It might feel like a bold move but the person on the receiving end will likely be flattered and happy to talk to you about their work.<\/p>\nUX networking: 5 tips and best practices for success<\/h2>\n
\nOnce you start reaching out to people, they\u2019re most likely going to check your profile before deciding whether or not to respond. So, before you arrive on the UX networking scene, make sure your online presence is primed and optimised.<\/p>\n