Working Collaboratively - a challenge to network more

Which image represents the way you collaborate and network as a self-employed or freelance worker?

1. Ruggedly Independent

2. Attempting to Network

3. Good Networking Connections

A recent blog article from the Weebly Inspiration Centre challenged me to think about how I network as a freelance web designer.  In summary the article offered the five challenges summarised in this extract from the article.

The number of self-employed and freelance workers is growing every day. But working alone isn't always easy. How do you maintain the relationships and collaboration that comes with a physical workplace?

Here are five tips to keep you working and connected:

1. Network, Network, Network
2. Engage on Social Media
3. Consider Co-working
4. Use Video Chat for Meetings
5. Establish Partnerships

I have to confess to some disquiet as compare my work style with what might be gained from good networking as suggested in the article. At best my networking attempts are relatively disorganised and spasmodic. I attempt to maintain regular and supportive communication with clients present and past, but I could do far better in relation to professional colleagues. As a generalist I tend to have a go at most things when some of them would be better contracted out to others more qualified. As a relative introvert I am not afraid of my own company as a worker, but I recognise that the stimulation offered by (net)working alongside others is important for creativity and motivation.

Having said that, I have recently connected with another web media and design professional with complementary strengths in our fields who lives in a nearby city. We have agreed to consult and cover for one another as the need arises, and to keep in touch. A liberating step forward and a challenge to take more seriously the challenged raised by the Weebly blog article.

Original Article