Networking

Developing a professional network can be formal or informal. You begin simply by introducing yourself to others in your field. Then it’s having business cards at trade shows and other professional encounters. Join culinary arts organizations. Many maintain web sites—and many culinary artists maintain blogs—that enable them to communicate with other professionals, get ideas, express ideas, and make new contacts. When you first make a good contact, follow up with an e-mail, phone call, or a note. Social media presents a unique opportunity to expand your network through a variety of avenues that are visited by both professionals and nonprofessionals. The communication that you develop with your peers will keep your own work fresh and contemporary, and an established network will also make it much easier for you to find your next job—or your next employee.