I spend a lot of time trying to continuously find ways to keep my creative process going. I’m always searching for things that spark inspiration while continuing to learn along the way. I typically listen to music from the time I wake up until I take a bath at night but when a friend suggested The Blog Millionaire podcast, I opted to try something different. One thing led to the next and I ended up finding the Side Hustle Pro podcast, which was perfect for me because it highlights minority women who have or are planning to turn their side hustles into a full blown entrepreneurial business. I sat through six episodes while at my desk and one particular topic stood out most to me – making sure you network on your level.
As beginners in this business world, we wish someone would just tell us everything they knew to get where they are. We want to learn from the best, we want to be in their shoes and understand the path they took. We’ll pay hundreds of dollars to sit in a seminar with a “mogul” who doesn’t leave us with any more information than we would’ve found on their Twitter timeline. We’ll send hundreds of emails hoping to collaborate with someone we admire and there’s nothing wrong with that. It’s wonderful to reach out to people who are sitting in the seat you want because you’ll never know what could come from it.
What we often fail to do is take advantage of our immediate network. Whether you acknowledge it or not, you are surrounded by people who are striving for the same things you are even if it’s in different ways. Our walks are always different, though our destinations may be the same. Even in your beginning stages, you have something to add to the business conversation too. The most powerful tool in networking is to actually build a strong network of like-minded individuals going in the same direction. You know why? They’re in the same trial and error process. These are the people who show up to your events. They’re not above replying to your texts. They’ve tried something that you haven’t and can tell you what to do (or not do). They stir up great ideas and have strengths that you lack. They actually hold you accountable by checking in on the things you said you would do. These are the connections you need to build, not the kind that sound good because you mentioned a popular name.
I tried doing it all on my own, but there are some things Google and YouTube just can’t provide. In the short amount of time I’ve been doing this, I’ve been blessed to come across few but priceless individuals who have ironically helped me with all that I need. From photography, to media kits, graphic design and working the back end of my WordPress site, I’ve thankfully networked a “team” who teaches me as I go. I encourage you to network on your level. Big names are nice, but we want results. Build with producers.
Wanna connect? I’m happy to help. Drop me a line below, xx.
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Hi Courtney-
I would love to connect with you! I am a avid reader of your content, especially on instagram, which is what led me to your blog. My instagram is _briannaaaab! Lets get in touch.
Hey gorgeous! Just followed you! Thank you for reading xx
Hey Courtney!
Great insight on a common misconeption in the networking world. There are usually great people under our nose that can help with our vision. Like you, I have been wanting to blog for a while and tiptoed back and forth with the idea. I do have a content calendar to follow (im anal LOL), name, and different ideas. I do a lot of HR training as a manager so my creative wheels are always spinning as to how to get people engaged in what you want to say and I love learning. Diversity in circles is a helping hand. I’m also thinking about my concentrated audience – as you noted in a previous post.
Blogging would be a hobby for me, but most friends ask about career advice from an HR perspective, how do I function daily through a separation that I’m dealing with, and just how do I balance it all. My day is filled with HR employee relations issues to coordinating volunteer work to football practice for my son. Its very important to find that ME time – and hence birthed the blog idea centered on career, travel, food, culture, film, motherhood etc.
Your posts always hit home in one way or another and your witty personality always shines through. Hopefully we can cross paths on the blog front in the future! Keep shinin’ guh!!
-avid reader
Cassidy!
Hey girl! How many times do I have to tell you that I can NOT WAIT for you to get going? I think you’ll definitely have some much needed insight to share with all of us. I can see simply from your description you’ve put the necessary thought into what you’d be creating. If I can help you brainstorm in any way let me know!
Great post of course . I want to get into networking with people who are the blogging world. I’m from Pittsburgh Pennsylvania so the blogworld is slim. My thing is not wanting to have too much going on, on my blog. I have my daily topic plus have natural hair, makeup must haves and my fitness journey that I showcase on my blog. I don’t want to create some of my best posts while still trying to attract readers.
Thanks boo! Believe me, Houston isn’t too impressive when it comes to the blogging world either. I can see why you’re hesitant to put out your best content but honestly, your best content now is what attracts readers. You can always revisit the posts later and post links with captions like “did you catch this popular post from last month?” etc. Just try for your best at all times!
Loved the info here. I am a new reader and follower but in the short time that i’ve been to your blog it has been very interesting. From being a new blogger myself to just general tips you may give out. keep up the good work!
Xo, Crystal Chanelle
Thank you for your feedback! I appreciate you reading Crystal Chanelle! <3
Hi there!!
I would love to connect! I recently came across your blog and have been reading it ever since!! My favorite so far is Boss Ladies: 9 to 5 with a Side Hustle. I definitely needed to read that! My Instagram is @justinicocktails
It’s funny because when I write stuff, it’s usually a reminder for myself. It’s so funny how it’s able to help others out too. I’m so glad you enjoyed it boo! <3
Hi Courtney!
My name is Ariel. I have a degree in PR but I’m really passionate about fashion and I want to start a fashion and lifestyle blog. I don’t have a large following which makes me think that breaking into blogging will be quite difficult. It’s something that I’ve wanted to do for a while now but honestly, I’m kind of afraid that it won’t be successful. Any suggestions or tips for starting a blog for the first time?