Networking for Musicians – 10 Tips

When it comes to succeeding in the music industry, talent is of course essential. However, the power of networking is often overlooked. 🤝 Networking can open countless doors, from collaborations and performance opportunities to record deals and much more. In the music industry in particular, it is important who you know and who knows you.

1. Understand the power of networking

No matter how talented, marketing-savvy or knowledgeable you are, you likely won’t be able to bring your project to fruition without any help from others. There are simply not enough hours in the day to manage all the different aspects of your project.

In any business – and a musical career is a business – efficient networking is key. Your talent is your foundation, but connections can open doors you never imagined. Relationships only harm those who don’t have any.

2. Information overload is good

The fact that the music industry is constantly changing is a challenge, but also an opportunity. You have to stay on the ball to keep up with the latest trends; it is crucial to know what’s going on and be one step ahead of the curve at all times.

Talk to people in the industry, read the trade media and follow the social media channels that focus on music news. You need all this information to determine your place in the industry and establish yourself in the musical fast lane.

3. Make new friends at concerts and festivals

Concerts and other gatherings of artists and music industry professionals can be great opportunities to build a network. Whether it’s a small club concert, a big show or an instrument-focused event with a live programme, just go.

You can always have interesting conversations with artists, managers or labels. This is especially true for festivals, where the who is who of the industry is present. Establish yourself as a reliable partner and people will always be happy to refer you to others.

4. Networking also means giving

Networking isn’t about using other people for your own benefit. Instead of constantly looking for influential people who could help you, think about how you can be of help to others – be it through your skills, time, or support. If you focus on being helpful to others, your network is much more likely to return the favour when you need it. It’s a network, not a one-way street.

5. Stay authentic – credibility wins

There’s no point in hiding behind a mask, only to disguise your desire for attention and support. Just be yourself. It’s not about pretending to be someone else or trying to come across as a celebrity when you’re not. In a network community, everyone should meet each other at eye level in an honest and authentic way. After all, everyone’s aware that we all have to start somewhere.

via GIPHY

6. Join online communities

There are numerous online networks for musicians where those who are passionate about the same topic communicate with each other. Musicians share experiences, discuss technical or professional issues, and support each other. You can often gain valuable insider knowledge from experienced colleagues and learn about topics like instruments, streaming portals, production tips, and much more. Ask questions, share your expertise with the community and become part of it!

7. Become interesting for others

Be your own brand ambassador! You will become interesting for other musical networkers if you are particularly knowledgeable in a specific area and are not afraid to share your knowledge. For example, you could work your way into a complex topic that you can really identify with, and then publish engaging blog posts about it. You’ll soon begin to receive comments, which are a perfect opportunity to get in touch. Your readers will become part of your network.

8. Become a music influencer

These days, musicians can achieve an almost unbelievable level of fame by publishing their own music videos on YouTube, Instagram and other networks. Sure, no one becomes an influencer and online personality with hundreds of thousands or even millions of followers overnight. To reach that kind of audience, you have to work hard and be persistent. As an influencer, you’re constantly in direct contact with your fans, which is a prime example of efficient networking. And you can achieve it without the help of the mainstream media and the old-fashioned distribution channels of the past.

9. Get involved in online collaborations

These days, you don’t have to be in the same room to make music together. Many recording artists collaborate with fellow musicians around the world using a wide range of online solutions. It is now not only possible, but perfectly normal to play, write, or produce with musicians from another continent. Various DAWs, for example from Steinberg or Arturia, now offer the option to establish stable peer-to-peer connections for online collaboration. Become a global musician – contacts like these are worth their weight in gold.

10. Polite persistence helps

Ultimately, you should stand by your actual mission. After all, you have a clear goal in mind and everyone should know that. Not everyone will immediately respond to your ‘Hey Bro’. But if you feel that this one contact could ignite your career, then the motto is: ‘Be polite, but persistent’. Stay friendly, but don’t give up. Let your counterpart know that he or she is important to you. Being pushy is frowned upon, but being determined is seen as a positive trait

Networking for Musicians: Your Feedback

What experiences have you had with networking as a musician? Where do you go to meet like-minded people, and which platforms do you use to promote yourself? We look forward to your suggestions in the comments.

Lawrence started playing the electric guitar because of his passion for rock music. Back in the day he played in a metal band, but now plays more for himself.

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