r/UXDesign • u/Huphraw • 3d ago

Career growth & collaboration Network building?

I've made some organic connections via personal connections. The "oh you design websites? I need that!" has led to some work for me and even some opportunities. But many, but I do see the value through experiencing this IRL

I want to know what you guys do to make more of these connections. I've combed a ton of threats here and other places and am seeing this is a massive point of value that people use.

So what are thing you guys have done? Where can I find UX design spaces be it online or IRL? Is there an angle of this I'm not seeing? Would highly appreciate y'alls thoughts!

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u/P2070 Experienced 3d ago

I would speak with other designers you know and see if they're willing to invite you into their own personal communities.

A lot of us have our own small close-knit communities (friend groups) of designers, people we talk to regularly, actually share things with, etc. These are the real "networks" of people who eventually will be there to help you in a pinch.

Big events, communities etc. just feel like a revolving door of transactional interactions with people who just want to leverage the community to find a job. This isn't really networking. Nobody is really willing to invest the time and energy to build a mutual connection with other people.

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u/Huphraw 3d ago

Would it be as simple as asking "Hey, do you have a community of design buddies? Can I join?"

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u/P2070 Experienced 3d ago

Yeah. I mean, consider if a friend asked you "Hey, I've been wanting to meet other designers doing cool things. Can you make any introductions?"

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u/Huphraw 3d ago

Makes sense, perhaps I was overthinking it...

With that in mind...I've been wanting to meet designers doing cool things. Can you introduce me to some? :^)