Networking is a crucial skill for anyone in the music industry, whether you are an artist, a producer, a manager, or a promoter. But how do you build and maintain relationships when you can't meet people face-to-face? In this article, we'll share some tips on how to network remotely and make connections that can help you grow your career.
Social media platforms are great tools for finding and reaching out to potential collaborators, mentors, clients, and fans. But you have to use them strategically and authentically. Don't just spam people with your links or ask for favors without offering value. Instead, research who you want to connect with, follow their accounts, engage with their content, and show genuine interest in their work. Then, when you have something relevant to share or ask, send them a personalized message that explains who you are, what you do, and why you want to connect.
Reach out to people - it's as easy as that. Make sure have a clear reason why you want to talk to them and explain the value that you bring to the conversation as well. People are willing to help. You just have to ask!
Do some research about the current challenges that the industry is facing, and use social media to start conversations about them. Express your points of view on topics you're passioned about, or simply be ready to listen to your peers' thoughts and fears. Putting yourself forward as part of the solution for people's problems, even just talking about them, can be a powerful tool to attract valuable connections.
Another way to network remotely is to join online communities that are relevant to your niche, genre, or goals. These can be forums, groups, chats, podcasts, webinars, or newsletters that offer opportunities to learn, share, and interact with other music industry professionals and enthusiasts. For example, you can join a community of independent artists who share tips and feedback on their music, or a community of music journalists who discuss the latest trends and news. By participating in these communities, you can showcase your expertise, learn from others, and discover potential partners or opportunities.
Virtual events are events that are hosted online, such as live streams, concerts, workshops, panels, or conferences. They can be a great way to network remotely, as they allow you to access and interact with people who you might not otherwise meet in person. For example, you can attend a virtual event where a renowned producer shares their insights and secrets, or a virtual event where a famous artist performs and answers questions from the audience. To make the most of these events, you should prepare some questions, comments, or compliments that you can use to start a conversation with the speakers or attendees. You should also follow up with them after the event via email or social media, and thank them for their time and input.
One of the best ways to network remotely is to create and share valuable content that showcases your skills, knowledge, or personality. This can be anything from a blog post, a podcast episode, a video, a song, or a newsletter that provides useful information, entertainment, or inspiration to your target audience. By creating and sharing valuable content, you can attract attention, establish credibility, and demonstrate your value. You can also use your content to invite feedback, collaboration, or support from other music industry players. For example, you can create a video where you review a new album or software, and ask for opinions or suggestions from other reviewers or users.
Creating and sharing valuable content is not just a networking strategy; it's a dynamic showcase of your skills & personality in the remote realm of the music industry. Whether via a blog post, podcast episode, video, song, or newsletter, the content becomes your virtual handshake, introducing you to your audience. This approach extends beyond self-promotion. It's about providing real value – information, entertainment, or inspiration – establishing your credibility and showcasing the unique perspective you bring. For instance, creating a video review of a new album or software isn't just about expressing your thoughts; it's an open invitation for feedback, suggestions, and collaboration from fellow reviewers or users.
Networking remotely is not a one-time thing. It requires consistency and follow-up to build trust and rapport with your contacts. You can't expect to get results from just sending one message or attending one event. You have to stay in touch, follow up, and nurture your relationships over time. You can do this by sending regular updates, sharing relevant news or opportunities, asking for advice or feedback, offering help or referrals, or simply saying hello and showing appreciation. You should also keep track of your contacts and interactions, and set reminders or goals for yourself to follow up with them. By being consistent and follow up, you can turn your remote connections into meaningful and mutually beneficial relationships.
I always bring it back to the "jab, jab, jab, right hook" method by Gary Vaynerchuk. Jabs are the value you bring and the right hook is the ask. You have to bring tons of value before you ask someone for something. Also don't just be someone's friend because of their title or because they work for a certain company. Layoffs are happening so frequently and when you build a genuine relationship (which takes time) it truly makes a difference.
In the end it sums to: Be genuine. Be interested in people and learning their stories. Know what you can add to the table. Don't push people, Don't backstabbed others. Be Polite. Build meaningful relationships