Networking can happen online or in-person, but it can also happen more casually, without you really trying. Here are a few things you can do in your day-to-day life to set yourself up for new connections:
Get your name out there
If the music business is all about who you know, then it pays to know as many people as possible. Say yes to any opportunities that will help get your name out there, even to just a handful of people. You never know when someone might know someone who could prove to be a valuable connection for you.
Be an active member of your community
In the same vein, you can meet new people and get your name out there by being an active member of your community. Collaborate with local artists, attend open mics, and go to songwriting workshops. Go to small shows and make friends with everyone involved including the band, volunteers, the sound guy, and even the audience members.
Take care of your online presence
If someone hears about you from someone else, they’ll likely search your name on Google to try and get a bit more information. Make sure your artist website and social media are up to date and effectively communicate who you are and what you do.
Make your contact information easily available
New connections can come from the most unexpected places, but only if the person is able to contact you. To help make this happen, make sure your contact information is available and easy to find.
Introduce people you know to each other
Know two people who could both benefit from working together? Why not introduce them to each other? In the future, they will more than likely repay the favor and facilitate a new introduction for you.
Keep a list of contacts
Some of your new connections will immediately turn into an active relationship, but others may stay dormant for some time. Maybe you’re both happy you met, but you won’t need each other’s help for a few months. To make sure you never forget about anyone you’ve met, add their information to a list as soon as you get home. Include their name, how you met, what they do, and any other important details.
If you can, sort this list into categories. For example, you can have a section for session musicians, producers, songwriters, publishers, etc. This way, the next time you need a drummer, for example, you’ll know exactly where to look.
Stay in touch
If you meet someone but wait until you need something from them to reach out again, you could be waiting a few years. At this point, not only will reaching out seem awkward, but they likely won’t even respond. To keep this from happening, be sure to regularly stay in touch with the people on your list. Engage with them on social media or send a quick message every once in a while just to say hello and check in.
Doing this will also help keep you at the front of their mind. The next time they or someone they know is looking for a collaborator, they might just think of you!
- On 08/08/2024
