Networking (Even If It Feels Awkward)

For a lot of people, the word networking comes with tension.

It can feel intimidating, forced, or draining. For some, walking into a room full of new people feels energizing. For others, it feels overwhelming. And for many students—especially those just starting out—it can simply feel uncomfortable.

All of that is valid.

Networking can feel awkward, and it can still matter.

How Creative Careers Grow

In creative industries, many opportunities don’t begin with a job posting. They begin with conversations. Someone remembers you from an event. A classmate recommends you. A guest speaker recalls a thoughtful question you asked.

Applications and portfolios are important, but relationships often help move things forward. That doesn’t mean you need to be outgoing or naturally social. It means that connection—in whatever form feels manageable for you—plays a role in long-term growth.

What Networking Is

Networking isn’t about “working the room” or performing confidence. At its core, it’s about being able to introduce yourself clearly, talk about what you’re learning, ask thoughtful questions, and follow up after a meaningful interaction.

It’s less about impressing someone and more about creating familiarity. When people understand who you are and what you’re interested in, they’re more likely to remember you—and that’s often where opportunity begins.

Why Practicing Before You “Need” It Helps

Recently, our Fashion department hosted a pop-up networking mixer for graduating students. The goal wasn’t to land jobs on the spot. It was to give students a low-stakes space to practice their elevator pitches and meet industry professionals before beginning their job search.

Students came prepared with short introductions, asked thoughtful questions, and engaged in real conversations. The intention was participation over perfection. The more they practiced introducing themselves and speaking about their interests, the more confident they became.

That kind of rehearsal makes a difference. When you’ve already introduced yourself a few times in a supportive environment, the next room feels more manageable.

If It Feels Uncomfortable, Start Smaller

If large events feel overwhelming, you don’t have to approach networking in the biggest way possible. You can start small.

That might mean preparing one or two simple sentences about what you’re studying or interested in. It might mean focusing on one good conversation instead of trying to speak to everyone in the room. It might mean following up later by email or LinkedIn, where you feel more comfortable expressing yourself.

Networking doesn’t have to be loud to be effective. It just has to be consistent.

Practical Ways to Practice

You don’t need to wait for a formal event to build this skill. Networking can be practiced in everyday moments.

You can begin by refining a simple introduction, such as: “Hi, I’m studying fashion and I’m interested in merchandising,” or “I’m building my portfolio and exploring brand development.” The goal is to simply to speak clearly about where you are right now.

You can also practice asking one thoughtful question during a guest lecture or industry event. Questions like, “How did you get your first role?” or “What skills helped you most early in your career?” often lead to meaningful conversations and show genuine curiosity.

Following up is another powerful step. Sending a short message within a day or two—thanking someone for their time and referencing something specific you discussed—helps reinforce the connection without adding pressure.

Even practicing with classmates, instructors, or peers can help. The more you speak about your interests in familiar environments, the more natural it becomes in new ones.

Setting realistic goals can also make networking feel manageable. Instead of aiming to meet as many people as possible, try deciding to introduce yourself to one new person or to stay at an event for a set amount of time. Small goals reduce pressure and build confidence gradually.

You Don’t Need Everything Figured Out

Another common misconception is that you need a fully developed plan before you can network effectively.

You don’t.

You can say you’re exploring. You can say you’re still figuring out your direction. You can talk about what you’re currently enjoying or learning. Clarity doesn’t require certainty—it simply requires honesty.

The Bigger Picture

Often, what makes the biggest difference isn’t charisma—it’s consistency. Being respectful, listening well, and following through on what you say builds trust over time. And trust is what turns introductions into opportunities.

Creative careers are built through skill. They grow through relationships.

Networking doesn’t have to feel natural right away, and it doesn’t have to look the same for everyone. It simply begins with one manageable conversation—and grows from there.