Networking is not dirty work.

After listening to Jo Cope’s guest lecture, I’ve had some time to reflect on the importance of building authentic relationships and creating opportunities in the creative industry. Jo's insights really shifted my perspective on networking, and I realized how crucial it is to approach connections with sincerity rather than seeing them as mere transactions.

One thing that stood out to me was Jo’s story about her first opportunity after graduating. She shared how a simple question to her lecturer about who to connect with led her to a curator at a museum in Budapest. That conversation sparked a series of opportunities for Jo, and the key takeaway was that the relationships she built with people were based on genuine connections rather than anything forced. It made me think about how sometimes we’re so focused on making the “right” connections that we forget how important it is to build friendships naturally.

Before hearing Jo speak, I always thought of networking as something transactional, like you talk to someone, and then they do something for you in return. But Jo really challenged that idea. She emphasized that networking doesn’t have to be a formal process; it can be as simple as having a coffee with someone, getting to know them on a personal level, and letting things evolve over time. The idea that networking is about fostering real friendships, not just seeking opportunities, was such an eye-opener for me. It made me realize that sometimes the best connections happen when you’re not even trying.

Jo also talked about the importance of being generous when building relationships. She suggested that if you come across an opportunity that could benefit someone else, don’t hesitate to share it. I really liked this idea, as it’s not just about looking for ways to advance your own career but also about helping others. Her example of the Fashion Clash festival in the Netherlands showed how important it is to think about the bigger picture and offer others a chance to shine, even if it’s not immediately beneficial to you. It’s something I’m definitely going to try to incorporate more into my own practice.

Finally, Jo made an excellent point about tapping into local networks. She mentioned looking into organizations like Design Nation or Craft Space that support emerging creatives with funding, mentoring, and opportunities to showcase their work. I hadn’t really thought about how much value there could be in local networks and platforms, but after hearing her speak, I realized how important it is to engage with what's right in front of you before thinking about going global. There’s so much potential in your own community, and it’s a great place to start building a solid foundation.

Jo’s lecture really opened my eyes to the way I approach relationships and opportunities in my own practice. I’ve walked away with a deeper understanding that creating meaningful connections isn’t about what you can get from others but about forming genuine relationships that can grow over time. It’s a shift in mindset that I’m excited to put into action.