The Key to Unlocking Your Music Career
Networking 101 for Independent Musicians
What’s up, indie musicians?! I hope that you are doing well wherever you’re reading and whenever you’re reading this. If this is your first time interacting with any of my material, I’d like to say thank you for stopping by and welcome you to Business Minded Musicians. My name is Jamaal aka Boss Eagle, and I’m a Billboard-charting Hip-Hop artist, music business coach, podcast host, digital marketer and entrepreneur. I’m passionate about helping indie musicians take control of their music career, and in this blog post we’re going to be discussing one of the BEST ways (in my humble opinion!) to grow your career: Networking!
*Why Networking is a Must-Have Skill for Independent Musicians.
So, I’m assuming that you’re an exceptionally talented independent musician with songs that are absolute bangers, but no one seems to be bobbing their heads to your beats. You’ve got the talent, the passion, and the drive, but there’s something missing — the right connections! As an aspiring musician, networking is the secret sauce that can catapult your music career to new heights.
But why is networking so important? Well, think of it as a sonic boom (remember the Army dude, Guile, from the video game Street Fighter?) for your career. When you build meaningful connections with industry professionals, fellow musicians, and potential fans, you could potentially open doors to exciting opportunities. Networking is like planting seeds in the music industry garden, and if you nurture those relationships, you’ll soon find your music blossoming across the world. #musicalgreenthumb
*Where to Network and How to Nail It.
So, where does this “networking” even happen, you ask? Well, hopefully you’re now convinced to embrace the power of networking, so you might be wondering where to start. Don’t fret (guitarists, I’m looking at you!), because I’ve got your back.
One of the best places to dip your toes into the networking ocean is music conferences. These gatherings are like the Coachella of the business world, filled with key players from record labels, media outlets, and other talented musicians.
When attending a music conference, remember to bring your A-game and your “A-smile”! Nobody wants to network with Salty McSalterson (new band name, I called it!). Be genuine, engaging, and approachable. Imagine meeting someone for the first time, and they have the personality of a soggy cereal — not memorable, right? Be the musical alicorn (a unicorn with wings) that leaves a lasting impression.
Here are some networking best practices to help you hit all the right notes:
1. **Be a Conversation Maestro: Start by listening and showing a genuine interest in others. Ask questions, and let the conversation flow naturally. It’s not a one-person show; it’s a symphony of connections! (I’d bought Ari’s book about three weeks before I met him and the above pic was taken — showing a genuine interest in his material.)
2. **Brand Yourself: Have your elevator pitch ready. Explain who you are, your genre, and your uniqueness in a concise and engaging manner. Think of it as a musical haiku! (Remember making Haiku books in elementary school?)
3. **The Follow-Up Encore: After meeting someone at a conference or event, be sure to follow up within a few days. Shoot them an email or a DM, thanking them for the chat and expressing your desire to stay connected. Be persistent but not pushy — it’s a fine line, just like hitting those high notes.
And when it comes to post-event follow-ups, be a maestro of organization. Keep track of who you met, what you talked about, and your action points. Remember, a well-timed follow-up email or DM can be the harmony that solidifies a connection. Stay active on social media and engage with your new contacts — like, comment, and share their content. It’s a rhythm of reciprocity that keeps the conversation going.
Bonus Tip on Following Up: Don’t be afraid of using LinkedIn. Sliding into the DMs on Insta is great, but if you didn’t grab those digits or an email (or misplaced them) then consider (re)connecting on LinkedIn. It’s the professional social media outlet, and you’re a professional. So do it!
*Networking Efficiency 101 — Electronic Business Cards
I love technology…(where’s Skip when you need him?) In a world where we swipe left or right on everything, why stick to old-fashioned paper business cards? As an independent musician looking to make a memorable impression, consider embracing the tech-savvy trend of electronic business cards.
The Electronic Business Card is your ticket to networking efficiency. Not only is it eco-friendly, but it also allows you to customize the information you share with different contacts. Showcase your latest tracks, direct people to your social media handles, and even include a personalized message for each recipient. Now that’s networking 2.0!
And nowadays, your electronic business card doesn’t even have to be a card. Companies like Popl also have wristbands, keychains, pop “dots” for your phone case and more! Make it easier than ever to connect with your new contacts by using electronic business products.
Click here to try Popl today & get 20% Off. Code: BIZMINDEDBOSS.
You’ve probably heard it said before that “your net worth is in your network.” What do you think about that? Personally, I believe that there’s some truth to the statement. As an entrepreneur, I’m fully aware that many wealthy people network, collaborate, and pay big bucks to be a part of masterminds. As one of my coaches, Rick Barker, says: I don’t want to be the smartest person in the room. If I am, I’m leaving the room.
Conferences, in particular, are a great way to engage with like-minded people — whether in the music space or not. Many of the conferences I’ve attended — or courses, coaching, programs, etc., I’ve invested in — were from outside of the music ecosystem. I look for ways to learn from others much smarter than me, then apply that information to what I’m doing as a music professional.
Networking can be the rocket fuel that propels your music career skyward. So, mingle, connect, and have fun while doing it. Remember, being an independent musician doesn’t mean you have to be a solo act in the networking game. Find your tribe, support each other, travel together. Collaboration doesn’t only have to happen in the studio.
Now, go forth and network like the rockstar you are destined to become!
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