Taking your first steps into the music industry can be an intimidating experience. However, if you can master the art of networking this will be a valuable skill to support you through the industry. You’ll begin to meet fellow artists and nurture relationships to make a beneficial connection that could support you in building a successful career.
You must remember communication is key! By putting yourself out there, you’ll natural expand your reach, build a following and create links within the industry. Here are few tips on how to help you network:
1. Be open, friendly, and confident. Put excitement over fear, meeting new people can be scary but the benefits outweigh the fears. What’s ten minutes of discomfort against a lifetime of professional success?
2. Work on creating genuine connections. Don’t start self-promoting as soon as you meet someone, take the time and effort to engage in conversation with them, find out about them before you mention you.
3. Post on socials that you’re attending. Gain some attention and following before you even show up to the event!
4. Practice beforehand. If you know you’ll be nervous, practice having conversations with friends or yourself in the mirror pretending you’re talking to strangers. What do you want out of this conversation? How can you present yourself positively?
5. Initiate conversations. Be bold — break the ice with as many people as you can!
6. Offer introductions of your own. If you know someone that might be a great connection for someone you meet, offer to introduce them. You never know when you may need that person to do it for you.
7. Pre-prepare some talking points. Speak to your strengths and things you’re more-or-less an expert on (e.g., songwriting, amp repair, tour planning, etc.).
8. Read up on the latest industry trends. That way, if you’re at a loss for words, you can at least bring up a huge merger or massive signing.
9.Put your phone away. It’s tempting to bury your face in your phone, especially if you’re feeling awkward, but don’t. It’ll give people a signal to leave you alone.
10. Offer to follow on social media. Ask if you can follow the person you’re talking to; they’ll appreciate the follow, you’ll have a way to get in touch, and you may even get a follow back!
Overall, the most important thing to remember going into a networking event is - treat people the way you’d want to be treated. And remember that everyone in that room is probably nervous and you’re all there with one common goal: meeting new people. With these musician networking tips, you’ll be well on your way to making those quality connections.
If you’re ready to start your career in music, check out our Music courses here.