Your next opportunity might be closer than you think
Why Networking IRL Still Matters for Creatives
When I first moved to Tallahassee, I was looking for a design position and honestly, just a sense of creative community. So I got involved with our local AIGA chapter, the professional association for design (formerly the American Institute of Graphic Arts).
What started as a small group of designers brainstorming ways to connect quickly evolved into something bigger. We decided to rebrand our group to include all kinds of creatives: producers, authors, designers, comedians, actors, illustrators, photographers, filmmakers, and more.
That one decision made a huge difference in the community.
Over time, our group, renamed the Creative Collective, started hosting talks, Q&A chats, DIY collaborations, and casual coffee meetups. It’s become a place where ideas turn into projects, and acquaintances turn into creative partners and friends.
For me, these connections have been integral to the growth of my voiceover and acting business. Some of my best opportunities have come from simply showing up, grabbing a coffee, listening to someone’s new idea, or helping out at a local event.
If you’re not already tapping into your local creative scene, this is your sign to start. You don’t need to be in a big market to find meaningful opportunities. You just need to connect with people who share your passion.
Where to Start
Here are a few types of groups worth checking out in your area:
🎬 Film & Media Meetups: Local film commissions, indie filmmaker collectives, or media production groups often host mixers or screenings.
🎤 Acting & VO Communities: Check Facebook, Meetup, or local arts councils for groups where actors, voice talent, and directors collaborate or trade insights.
🎨 Design & Creative Associations: Like AIGA, or Creative Mornings, or even coworking spaces that host creative talks or design jams.
📸 Photography, Writing, or Art Clubs: Perfect for multidisciplinary creatives who want to collaborate across mediums.
💼 Chambers of Commerce or Small Business Networks: Great for producers and freelancers to meet local business owners who may need creative services.
☕ Pop-Up Events or Coffee Meetups: Casual gatherings often lead to the most authentic relationships.
Creative Collective Mixer in Tallahassee
A Little Encouragement
Networking doesn’t have to mean handing out business cards or rehearsing your elevator pitch. Sometimes, it’s just about showing up, being curious, and finding your people. But business cards don't hurt to have, my suggestion here is to not offer them until the end of a conversation assuming they ask to "link up", or "talk more soon" type scenario.
I even found another local voice actor through playing in the local Ultimate Frisbee league. And we just wrapped a collab together on a PSA here in town.
I'm as shocked as you are. Lacing up before an Ultimate frisbee game with my teammates.
Your next big project might start with a simple, “Hey, what are you working on lately?”
SO What’s one local group or event that’s made a difference in your creative journey?
I’d love to feature a few responses in an upcoming newsletter, just hit comment and tell me about yours!
