The importance of networking within the creative industries

A lot of us pursue a career in IT because of our affinity for video games. It is easy to imagine networking as joining a party, or just a forum for our favourite MMO. Often times we would have a much easier time with a boss fight by having peers with different backgrounds and varied levels of experience to rely on. Similarly, attending tech social events offers you a chance to reach out to individuals, or parties, without the formality of a job application and strict interview.



Why Networking Matters

Networking isn’t just about finding a job or promoting a product; it’s about learning, sharing knowledge, and developing your career in ways that may not be immediately obvious. Through networking, professionals gain access to:

  1. Learning Opportunities: Connecting with others in the same industry opens doors to learning from peers, whether it’s about a new programming framework, best practices, or emerging industry trends.

  2. Career Advancement: Often, career opportunities arise from relationships built through networking. Employers frequently turn to their networks first when looking for candidates, meaning many job opportunities never even make it to job boards.

  3. Collaborative Projects: Networking often leads to collaborative projects. Whether it’s an open-source software project or a startup idea, these opportunities allow for both professional development and creativity.

  4. Mentorship and Guidance: Building relationships with more experienced professionals in the field can lead to mentorship. Having someone guide you through challenges and help you grow professionally is an invaluable benefit.

  5. Social Support: In a high-stress field like web development or IT, having a support network of peers who understand the unique challenges you face is essential for your personal and professional well-being.

The Power of Meetups

Meetups are like real-life guild halls, bringing together people with shared interests. They offer opportunities for learning, leveling up your skills, and forging alliances that can boost your career. Meeting new people can be a scary endeavour, intimidating endeavour, especially when you may feel like everyone there will know more than you. The trick, in my experience, is to embrace your inexperience and accept everyone is there to learn and meet like-minded people. 

Edinburgh JavaScript (EdinburghJS)

EdinburghJS is a popular meetup for JavaScript developers in Edinburgh, where web developers gather to discuss the latest in JavaScript and related web technologies. This meetup fosters a collaborative atmosphere where members share new ideas and work on projects together, providing an excellent platform for learning and networking.

GlasgowJS

For those based in Glasgow, GlasgowJS offers a similar environment. It's a community-driven event that encourages learning and socializing among JavaScript developers. Whether you're just starting out or are a seasoned developer, GlasgowJS is a fantastic opportunity to meet like-minded individuals and grow your skillset.

Glasgow Azure User Group

The Glasgow Azure User Group focuses on cloud technologies, specifically Microsoft Azure. This group holds meetups every two months, where participants can learn best practices, discuss cloud solutions, and network with peers who share an interest in Microsoft’s cloud platform. The meetups are free, making them an accessible way to grow your understanding of cloud computing while connecting with other IT professionals​.

Scottish Developers Meetup

For those interested in a broader range of technologies, the Scottish Developers Meetup is a great choice. This group organizes events across Scotland, including both Glasgow and Edinburgh, focusing on the latest developments in software and IT. It’s a great place to learn about a variety of topics, from new coding languages to cutting-edge industry tools​.

How to Make the Most of Networking Events

  1. Prepare in Advance: Research the event, speakers, and attendees. Have a few talking points or questions ready to facilitate conversations.

  2. Be Open to Learning: Approach every networking event as a learning opportunity. Attend talks, participate in workshops, and be curious about what others are working on.

  3. Engage Actively: Don’t be a passive participant. Ask questions, introduce yourself to others, and engage in conversations. Offering help or insights will make you memorable to others.

  4. Follow Up: After an event, follow up with the connections you made. A quick LinkedIn message or email can help solidify the relationship and keep the conversation going.

  5. Be Consistent: Networking is not a one-time activity. Attend events regularly to deepen relationships and stay engaged with the community.

Online Networking

While in-person meetups are invaluable, there are also many opportunities to network online. Platforms like GitHub, Stack Overflow, and Twitter are great for engaging with the broader developer community. Participating in online forums, contributing to open-source projects, or attending virtual meetups expands your reach and allows you to connect with professionals worldwide.


Final Thoughts

Networking is more than just a tool for career advancement; it’s about building relationships that lead to mutual growth and learning. There’s no shortage of opportunities to connect with others through meetups focused on web development and IT. Whether you’re attending the Glasgow Azure User Group to learn about cloud computing or joining EdinburghJS to stay up-to-date with JavaScript trends, networking can propel your career forward and open doors you never expected.



Resources used:
https://www.gaug.co.uk/

https://www.meetup.com/edinburghjs/

https://www.meetup.com/scottish-developers/

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