3 answers
Jaylin
Student
Mansfield, Texas
1
Question
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How do I get connected with designers in my area?
How do I get connected with designers in my area? As I am nearing the end of my first degree, I want to get connected with more creatives in my area. #Spring26
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3 answers
Russel Quadros
(Product + Brand) Designer
3
Answers
Jacksonville, Florida
Updated
Russel’s Answer
If you’re looking for in-person connections, search for design events in the closest big city. It’s more likely you'll find creative communities there, and searching sites like Meetup or Eventbrite can help. It looks like you’re close to Dallas, so AIGA Dallas (https://dallas.aiga.org/upcoming-events/) could be a place to start. … You could also try attending a design conference to learn what communities exist (online and in-person).
The alternative would be to start your own event. Find a location, come up with a topic, and try to socialize the event on Linkedin, etc. You’re probably not the only one looking for connection and a creative community, but it may take a couple of regular postings to build the network. You could also start online and move to in-person as you build a small following.
The alternative would be to start your own event. Find a location, come up with a topic, and try to socialize the event on Linkedin, etc. You’re probably not the only one looking for connection and a creative community, but it may take a couple of regular postings to build the network. You could also start online and move to in-person as you build a small following.
Thank you, this is really helpful.
Jaylin
Candelaria Cresta
Product Design
13
Answers
Porto Alegre, State of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
Updated
Candelaria’s Answer
Hii Jaylin!
A few things that really helped me connect with other designers:
- Join to communities like: Friends Of Figma or local IDX/design groups, people usually share events and meetups there.
- Go to design events whenever you can, even small ones. Talks, workshops, etc.
- Try working from networking cafés or coworking spaces in your area from time to time.
- Don’t be afraid to reach out first :) Sometimes I come across a project that really catches my eye, so I check out who created it, look them up on LinkedIn, and ask for a quick chat or some design tips. Believe me, there are a loooot of people out there who genuinely want to help and are happy to connect!
Always it's a bit scary to put yourself out there, but most people feel the exact same way. Sometimes just showing up, asking a question about projects, or complimenting someone's work is enough to start a conversation :)
You got this!!
Best,
Candelaria
A few things that really helped me connect with other designers:
- Join to communities like: Friends Of Figma or local IDX/design groups, people usually share events and meetups there.
- Go to design events whenever you can, even small ones. Talks, workshops, etc.
- Try working from networking cafés or coworking spaces in your area from time to time.
- Don’t be afraid to reach out first :) Sometimes I come across a project that really catches my eye, so I check out who created it, look them up on LinkedIn, and ask for a quick chat or some design tips. Believe me, there are a loooot of people out there who genuinely want to help and are happy to connect!
Always it's a bit scary to put yourself out there, but most people feel the exact same way. Sometimes just showing up, asking a question about projects, or complimenting someone's work is enough to start a conversation :)
You got this!!
Best,
Candelaria
Kim Ponto
Creative Director, Digital Experience team
4
Answers
Portland, Oregon
Updated
Kim’s Answer
I have always relied on Linked In, EventBrite for design meetups and talks in your area. Do you have a Creative Mornings group in your area? https://creativemornings.com/pages/about I absolutely love going to these meetups and meeting other designers, hearing talks from experts in multiple industries, they are so fun!
The AIGA is also a great resource for designers seeking to advance their skills, network with other professionals, and stay informed about industry trends. The association hosts numerous events, including conferences, workshops, and webinars, providing valuable learning and networking opportunities. Joining AIGA connects you with a vast network of professionals, helping you to stay inspired and informed in the fast-paced field of design.
You can also join Reddit Graphic Design, a subreddit where designers can participate in interactive discussions, share their projects, and find inspiration. It is a vibrant community with a diverse range of topics related to graphic design.
The AIGA is also a great resource for designers seeking to advance their skills, network with other professionals, and stay informed about industry trends. The association hosts numerous events, including conferences, workshops, and webinars, providing valuable learning and networking opportunities. Joining AIGA connects you with a vast network of professionals, helping you to stay inspired and informed in the fast-paced field of design.
You can also join Reddit Graphic Design, a subreddit where designers can participate in interactive discussions, share their projects, and find inspiration. It is a vibrant community with a diverse range of topics related to graphic design.
This was super helpful, thank you!
Jaylin