Networking 101: Building Lasting Relationships on College Campuses

If you’re venturing into the exciting world of college and sorority photography, one of the keys to success lies in your ability to network effectively with the college ecoystem. College towns are a market unlike any other, where a single connections can lead to a serious explosion of opportunity… not just for a single shoot but for a constant stream of referrals for your business! A few years ago, I remember taking a single photo for a couple on campus with their dog… that one photo turned in to around $10,000 in future business! (((Wanna hear more of that story? Drop a message in the comments and let me know… maybe that’ll be a future blog post!)))

Here’s how you can build and maintain relationships that help grow your business in this dynamic environment.

1. Understand the Campus Culture

Each college campus has its own culture and network of influence. Understanding these nuances is crucial to effectively navigate and connect within these communities.

• Attend Events: Regularly attending campus events, even those not directly related to photography, can help you understand the cultural dynamics and make valuable contacts. You’ll be amazed what you can learn from attending a single pre-game tailgate!
• Engage with Student Organizations: Each campus has numerous organizations and clubs, including Greek life, professional groups, and hobby clubs. Engaging with these groups can open doors to exclusive events and referral opportunities.

2. Leverage Social Media

Social media is an integral part of the college ecosystem. Students indicate that most of their relationships are formed digitally before they meet in person (which means your photos function like a sort of “social currency,” allowing college students to former higher quality connections with a great online presence!) Use apps like Instagram and TikTok (assuming it’s not banned in the USA by the time you read this 😂) not only to showcase your work but also to engage directly with student organizations and campus influencers.

• Active Engagement: Regularly post updates, comment on posts, and interact with both individual students and campus orgs.
• Instagram and TikTok: Focus on platforms where the college demographic spends most of their time. Showcasing your work here can help you stay top of mind among students. Wanna connect with parent groups? Facebook is still the place to be!

3. Offer Workshops and Free Sessions

Students are always looking to learn new skills, including photography. Offering free workshops, introductory photo sessions, or even coffee “meet and greets” can be a great way to introduce your services and interact directly with potential clients.

• Host Mini-Sessions: Offer free or discounted mini-session days around campus. This not only markets your skills but also directly engages potential clients in your work process.
• “Free Coffee Fridays”: Post on social media that you’ll be at the go-to coffee shop on campus for a few hours, and buy coffee for any students that stop by to meet you!

4. Collaborate with Campus Media

Most colleges have their own newspapers, magazines, and even radio stations. Collaborating with these media outlets can help you gain exposure and credibility within the campus community.

• Offer Services for Events: Offer to cover major campus events in exchange for credits and mentions in various campus publications.
• Provide Content for Publications: Write articles or provide photographs for college magazines, especially those related to campus life and events.

5. Follow Up and Stay Connected

Building relationships is just the beginning; maintaining these connections is what leads to lasting business opportunities.

• Regular Check-ins: Keep in touch with students – formally through your email list, or informally through social media. Congratulate them on achievements and stay updated on upcoming events. Taking an interest in their lives, and not always trying to sell them something, is an easy way to stand out!
• Show Appreciation: Send thank you notes or digital Starbucks gift cards to organization leaders or key contacts after major projects or events.

Conclusion

Networking within the college and sorority photography market isn’t just about selling your services; it’s about becoming a trusted part of the campus community. By understanding the culture, actively engaging on social media, offering value through showing up consistently, collaborating with campus media, and maintaining connections, you can establish a sustainable and profitable presence on any college campus. Embrace the opportunity to become more than just a photographer—to become a valued community member who captures essential memories and moments.