How to set up profiles on creative-specific platforms

To maximise your visibility and reach your target audience, identify two or three platforms specifically tailored to your creative niche—such as Etsy for makers, Behance for designers, or The Dots for professionals—and build fully optimised profiles that include a clear biography, high-quality imagery, and direct links to your contact details.

Why creative platforms matter

While your own website acts as your business's digital home, creative-specific platforms serve as the busy marketplaces and community hubs where customers, collaborators, and recruiters already spend their time. These platforms often have high "domain authority," meaning they are more likely to appear at the top of Google search results than a brand-new website, helping people find your work more easily.

Choosing the right platform for your craft

Not every platform is right for every business. Focus your energy where your ideal customers are most likely to browse. Here are the most common options for UK creatives:

Platform	Best For...
Etsy / Folksy	Makers, crafters, and artists selling physical or digital products. (Folksy is specifically for UK-based makers).
Behance / Dribbble	Graphic designers, illustrators, and UI/UX specialists looking to showcase project case studies.
The Dots	Professional networking across all creative sectors, including film, fashion, and advertising.
ArtStation	Concept artists, 3D modellers, and those working in the gaming or entertainment industry.

Steps to build a winning profile

1. Keep your handle consistent: Use the same username or business name across all platforms. This makes your brand instantly recognisable and helps with "searchability."
2. Optimise your bio: Use the first sentence to clearly state what you do (e.g., "Bespoke furniture maker based in Sheffield"). Use keywords that potential clients might search for, such as "freelance illustrator" or "hand-poured soy candles."
3. Showcase your best work: Quality always beats quantity. Only upload work that reflects the type of projects you want to get hired for in the future.
4. Link everything back: Ensure there is a clear link to your main website or shop. If the platform allows it, add your professional email address to make it as easy as possible for someone to commission you.
5. Tag and categorise: Most platforms use a "tagging" system. Use relevant tags (e.g., #UKDesign, #Handmade) to ensure your work appears in the right discovery feeds.

Top Tip: Don't just "post and ghost." Creative platforms are social networks. Take ten minutes a week to like other artists' work or leave helpful comments. This activity often boosts your profile's visibility within the platform's algorithm.

Maintaining your presence

An outdated profile can be worse than no profile at all. If a potential client sees that your last update was three years ago, they might assume your business is no longer active. Set a recurring reminder in your calendar—perhaps once a month—to upload one new piece of work or refresh your bio to keep things current.