Connect, Don’t Network. 

Why Your Creative Journey Needs More Real Conversations

It’s 11:46 PM. I should probably be winding down, but instead I’m replaying my day like a highlight reel. Bike ride in the morning. A powerful 1:1 session. A check-in with a member. A paid invoice (always worth a happy dance). And most importantly, a real connection with another creative.

Today didn’t just feel productive, it felt alive.

That’s why I’m here, typing away, because I want to talk about something that’s been echoing in my head.

Connect, NOT network.

We live in an era where networking is sold like the ultimate key to success. It’s trendy. It’s buzzy. It’s plastered all over event flyers with bold fonts and champagne flutes in the background. You see “Networking Event” and think.

Alright, let me find a nice fit, rehearse my intro…

“Hi, I’m Brandon Avery, multi-hyphenated artist.”

You shake hands, trade Instagrams, like a few posts for the next week, maybe even drop a comment.

Then? Silence.

The cycle repeats at the next “networking” event.

The truth is by its own definition, networking is simply the process of exchanging information to develop contacts.

It’s mechanical. It’s the social equivalent of speed dating with no second date.

Now, let’s talk about connection.

By definition, to connect means to bring together or into contact so that a real or notional link is established.

Notice the difference?

Networking asks, What can you do for me?
Connection asks, Who are you, really?

As creatives, we thrive on stories, shared energy, and inspiration. We’re not here to just trade business cards (or follow requests). We’re here to build bridges… ones that carry trust, collaboration, and genuine interest in each other’s craft.

When I connect with another creative, I’m not thinking about my next opportunity. I’m thinking about our shared purpose, what drives us to wake up and make something out of nothing. That’s where the magic is.

But here’s the catch:

True connection takes more effort than networking.

It requires following up, remembering small details, showing up for each other’s work, and giving without a scoreboard.

Over time, I’ve found a few simple things that have helped me go from surface level handshakes to real, purpose driven relationships:

• Ditch the elevator pitch – Instead of rattling off your resume, tell a story. Share something that shaped your creative journey. People remember stories.
• Ask better questions – Go beyond “So, what do you do?” Try, “What’s inspiring you right now?” or “What’s your favorite thing you’ve created lately?”
• Be a resource first – Before thinking about how someone can help you, find a way to help them. Recommend a book, introduce them to someone, or just show up to their event.
• Check back in – A week after meeting, send a quick message referencing something you talked about. That’s when the relationship starts, not at the handshake.
• Be consistent – Don’t just pop up when you need something. People can tell when you’re showing up only when you need something “I know I can”. Instead, check in regularly, just because. Be present enough that your support feels natural, not convenient.

And now because connection is a practice, not just a theory, here’s your homework:

The Creative Follow-Up

Goal: Build 5 genuine creative relationships in the next month.

1. Identify – Think of 5 creatives you’ve met recently, online or in person whose work or story really stuck with you.
2. Reach out – Send each of them a personal message. Reference something specific they shared with you.
3. Offer value – Share a resource, invite them to collaborate “tread lightly with this”, or send something you know they’d appreciate.
4. Meet again – If possible, set up an in person or video catch up with zero agenda. Just talk.
5. Keep the thread alive – Add a reminder to check in with them monthly, even if it’s just a quick, “Hey, thought of you when I saw this.”

Do this and watch how fast your creative circle turns into a creative community. Because networking ends when the conversation does.

Connection? That’s where the story begins.

Hope this helps,

-B