Discover Creative Career Paths Through Conversation
Networking can be valuable for almost any career area, but in the arts and creative fields, it’s one of the best ways to learn about specific career paths, discover roles you didn’t know existed, and uncover opportunities. The good news? Networking doesn’t have to be stressful – think of it as making friends and learning from people whose work excites you.
Some Inspiration Before You Begin
Before diving into strategy, check out these articles on networking in creative fields:
- Networking Tips for Artists (Format Magazine)
A refreshing take on why networking doesn’t have to feel transactional—treat it like making friends and building authentic connections with people who share your interests.
Read the Article - 10 Steps to Grow a Powerful Arts & Culture Network (Rolling Stone Council)
Strategic, actionable steps for building meaningful relationships in creative industries—from finding the right people to nurturing long-term connections.
Read the Article
Start Building Your “Aspiration Peers” List Over Break
The holidays may not be the ideal time to reach out, but they’re perfect for research. Use this break to create a list of aspiration peers – people doing work you find interesting. These are people you can learn from. When winter term starts, schedule a coaching appointment and we can help you prepare your outreach and plan for your conversations.
Two Great Tools for Finding Connections
LinkedIn is excellent for discovering alums working in your fields of interest:
Dartmouth College Alumni Tab:
- Go to the Dartmouth College LinkedIn page
- Click the Alumni tab
- Filter by industry, job title, or location
- Tip: Some results may include current students—check individual profiles to confirm alumni status
Company Search:
- Look up organizations you’re curious about
- Click the People tab
- Under “Where they studied,” add Dartmouth College
- Filter further by department, job title, or location
Pro tip: Make sure your LinkedIn is verified with your Dartmouth email. Can’t see anyone’s names? Likely you need to update your email address!
Ready to Reach Out?
LinkedIn is great for discovering people, but can present some hurdles when it’s time to connect. Here are your options:
Connection Request:
Add a brief note (200 characters max):
“Would you be willing to have a conversation about the [X] career path? I’d appreciate your advice and perspective.”
Email Outreach:
Prefer more space to introduce yourself? Track down their email and craft a more detailed message.
Not sure which approach is right? Schedule a coaching appointment—we can help you prepare your outreach and plan for your conversations.
Dartmouth Connect
Fewer users than LinkedIn, but those on the platform are highly engaged and eager to help. Bonus: built-in messaging means no hunting for email addresses—just reach out directly.
Explore Dartmouth Connect
Not sure which approach is right? Schedule a coaching appointment—we can help you prepare your outreach and plan for your conversations.
Helpful Resources
Networking Guide
A comprehensive overview of networking basics and strategies.
View the Guide
Outreach Templates & Sample Questions
Ready-to-use templates and conversation starters to make outreach easier.
Access Templates
Dartmouth Connect
Learn how to use this alumni platform designed specifically for Dartmouth students.
Explore Dartmouth Connect
The main message: Learn about roles and fields of interest from those who are already doing the work. Happy exploring – and happy holidays!
