Network Effectively While Studying Fashion Design
Starting a career in fashion can be thrilling as well as daunting. While honing your design skills is crucial to success, building a network of connections is equally important. While getting a degree from a reputed fashion designing college in Bangalore is important, what truly sets you apart is your ability to network. According to LinkedIn, 85% jobs and vacancies are often filled through networking. These further highlight how important it is to network to initiate career growth.
Through a strong professional network, you can easily achieve your goals. Thankfully, if you’re pursuing a fashion design programme from the vibrant and cosmopolitan city of Bangalore, there are an array of networking opportunities awaiting you. In our previous blog, we had already discussed what a day in the life of a fashion design student looks like.
Top Networking Strategies to Elevate your Fashion Design Career
Whether you’ve been staying in Bangalore for years or are new to the city, you can network efficiently using our ultimate guide:
Start by being an active LinkedIn user
As a student, if you’re looking to network professionally, a good starting point would be to set up your LinkedIn profile. A lot of people feel the need to create a profile only when they’re job hunting. However, set it up as a student itself. It will allow you to interact with thousands of professionals and even job hunt later in life. From connecting with potential bosses to networking with alumni of your institute, the possibilities are vast. You also get to learn a lot from LinkedIn as users post life lessons, educational content and so on.
Participate in Intra and Inter College Competitions and Events
The best fashion designing colleges host events, exhibitions, workshops and collaborations with other brands. It’s best to participate in these events. You also get to meet industry professionals and establish relationships. Also, usually at these events, alumni also tend to visit. You can meet them and ask them about their experience with the educational institute, placements and any other information you want.
Interact with your professors
Do not underestimate extensive networks that college professors usually have. They can be instrumental in helping you make important connections. During any lecture, interact with them, ask them questions and be inquisitive. Their valuable advice and referrals can help you reach your career goals. If you don’t want to ask them around your peers, take time after college hours to connect with them. If they see a hunger within you to learn, they’re likely to recommend you to top fashion design firms as well.
Join online communities
Another way to network as a fashion design student is by joining online communities. There are several public forums where you will find people of your interest and relevant to your field. They may be from your institute or from other colleges. You can find such groups via social media, blogs, websites and forums. The best part about being a part of such groups is that you get to learn from other designers and get feedback on your work, and discover new opportunities. However, as you navigate these online groups, it’s important to be helpful and respectful. Your goal should be to learn rather than just promoting yourself.
Attend networking conferences
Did you know? Every city has its own set of networking groups. You can do your research on them and see how you can be a part of them. While most conferences are free to attend, some may be charged. These events usually bring individuals from diverse industries together thereby providing a platform to learn new skills as well as network. You don’t just get to learn a lot about fashion design but other industries as well. For instance, you can consider joining FICCI FLO.
Volunteer at Fashion Events
Bangalore is home to some of the top fashion designers in India. Every few months, they run fashion shows, events and exhibitions. These events usually need volunteers for organising. By showing proof to them that you’re a fashion design student, you can get to volunteer at these events. Connect with their managers on social media, and you’ll be able to be a part of the event. Volunteering gives you a chance to meet stylists, designers, top models, photographers and other industry professionals.
Conclusion
Building a strong network in the Bangalore fashion community is key if you want to succeed. As a student, you want to build valuable connections early in your career. There’s no other better way than networking. Utilise college resources, attend events and leverage social media to make the most of your networking opportunities. It not just supports your current ambitions but also opens up a door to future opportunities. Life at Vogue Institute of Art & Design gives you a chance to network and establish domestic as well as international connections.
