So far, working in the creative industry I have learnt the importance of networking with other creatives and sharing experiences/ advice, whether that be freelancers or individuals from organisations. With OperaUpClose being such a small and intimate company, I have been lucky enough to expand my network on a regular basis, whether that be online or in person at events.
In more recent events, I have been on-site during pre drinks on 2 separate occasions for our Riders To The Sea tour- this being in Southampton and London. This has massively allowed me to network with individuals who are friends of the company and my colleagues, including creatives working in different areas and at different levels. By being in a social setting with these people, I was able to make conversations where I can express my passions through work and discuss how I want my future to look, and listening to others about the same. By building these relationships with individuals in the same industry outside of the office, I now have a few contacts which may help me in my future career within the arts.
My biggest goal after OperaUpClose is to get a creative role in London and (eventually) move there, this is mainly down to the general fact that there are a multitude of more opportunities creative wise, and I have found that a majority of the best people to network with are based in London (that and I love the city). A particular conversation I had with 2 individuals who used to work at OperaUpClose really helped me understand the challenges/advantages of doing this, and they both in which gave me crucial advice that I will most definitely take first hand (based around how best to move to London and the different opportunities that may be available).
I have been recommended to look through websites like ArtsJobs for potential creative careers which already I have been looking into. This has helped me understand the types of positions that will be available after my position at OperaUpClose and the different things I need experience in to be considered as a candidate (things I can work on before leaving). I will continue to keep updated and apply closer to the end point where I will be more likely to get a position (since my contract ending).
By networking I have been able to promote myself and my strengths both inside and outside the company. As someone who has been looking to start freelancing, I have found through networking that the best way to get clients is through recommendations and 'knowing the right people' who support you and your work. Surrounding yourself with people like that and reciprocating the same interest back to can develop some great relationships that could dramatically effect your career in the future, hence why I will be continuing to grow my network over the time I spend at OperaUpClose as well as after.
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