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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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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.
Thank you comment icon Thank you, this is really helpful. Jaylin
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Rachael’s Answer

I guess my follow up question is, is there a reason why you want to limit yourself with designers in your area? We are working more than ever as a global economy and I have had amazing interactions with designers all over the world. I would encourage you not to limit yourself to ones just in your area. There are plenty of events online like the ones hosted by Figma, Smashing mag, Rosenfield media, along with local events like ones on meetup.com. You can volunteer or join a nonprofit. You could create your own group if you wanted!
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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.
Thank you comment icon This was super helpful, thank you! Jaylin
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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
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Nishtha’s Answer

Hi Jaylin, great question!

There are a lot of apps and online platforms to help locate networking events where you can connect with creatives. Go on to Luma or Partiful and keep an eye out for design-related ones. One hack here is to attend even non-design events around the time of important conferences (for e.g. if Figma's conference, Config is ever in your town). LinkedIn is a great bet to first connect with people, build a long relationship with them and hopefully it can blossom into a mentorship opportunity.
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Roseanne’s Answer

I also would recommend AIGA! I joined AIGA many years ago when searching for my first full time job. The most helpful thing that came from that was their "mentorship program" where they connected students with experienced full-time employees in design (you can specify what type of design too). You meet up with your mentor bi-weekly and they would give you career advice, people to connect with for digital chats and networking. When you network with one person, make sure to ask them to introduce you two a couple other people you can speak to, and that can soon expand over time!

Also, check your college alumni networks. Your school usually have major specific groups that you can join and meet people from.
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