How Does She Do It?
Like most people, I hate public speaking and I can feel pretty awkward while selling myself, so going to networking events is not usually on top of my list of things to do. However, I am becoming aware, as a new business owner, that there can be a place for everyone to do that dreaded word, “networking”.
I’ve been reading “Do What You Love, Love What You Do” by Holly Tucker, MBE in the midst of finishing my professional photography certification and starting this new business. I really liked how she refers to the word “networking” as a very dated term that belongs in the 1980s, and a new word for it should be “community”. You should build your community, which is something I have been slowly doing over the past couple years while studying photography. I knew I wanted to do this for a living so while I was studying, I connected with photographers who I felt would be like-minded. So far that tactic has worked. Holly also recommended that within the next month, attend three networking events, with all types of small business owners and see what happens. I’m taking this on board.
When I saw a fellow photographer post about a networking (or rather, community?) event in Woking, where I live, called “How DOES she do it?”, I felt compelled to attend, even if I hadn’t finished this website! It turns out, it didn’t really matter. As long as you have the passion behind what you do, and the vision, business owners accept you and your journey. They know because they once were there.
I really enjoyed the “How DOES she do it?” event, connecting with other women who are running their own business, and I already have learned a lot from talking to them from their experiences. One of the best responses, while I claimed I didn’t know what I was doing (because I hadn’t started yet!), was “Nobody knows what they’re doing”. I love it, even though I also know it’s also not true. Business owners are knowledgeable in what they do. I have studied and am experienced in photography. Everyone else I met at this event were very professional and knowledgeable in their fields. We actually do know what we’re doing. I feel like we, especially women, put so much pressure on ourselves to be perfect at everything, when that isn’t necessary.
So, how does she do it? She takes it one day at a time, learns her craft and also takes the advice of professionals as she goes in order to provide the best she can for her community.
I’m now ready to take your portrait photos for whatever you may need. I’m exciting to start the new journey and hope you’ll join me.
