How to get to know right people?

When you have to get something done, asking your friends and colleagues for a recommendation is always a good place to start. “I know a guy” is the answer you’re looking for. So how to become that guy?

Building your reputation and your connections is a lengthy process. Fortunately there are things that can help you speed it up.?

The power of networking???

Music industry is people driven, diverse and compartmentalised. In practice it means that you simply cannot do everything, everywhere, all at once. So start local and gradually build up your presence within the industry on a regional, national and international level. Remember that each connection can be a turning point which defines your career.?

Throw yourself into the industry and go with the flow. Meet people at concerts, clubs, venues, conferences, talks and gatherings. Talk with artists, promoters, sound engineers, bouncers, staff, anyone who takes part in the production process. Be curious, be present and offer help if possible or necessary. Build your name by giving 100% every time. Your effort goes with compound interest. Take a proactive approach and fill the gaps - in the end from a participant you’ll become a leader.?

The flavour of industry events ??

Industry events are a perfect opportunity to meet other professionals, although most of the events are packed with people and time is limited. To fully use the event potential, come prepared. Use a delegate database, research them and send short pitch emails at least 2 weeks before the gig. Do your research - check if any speed-meeting or demo sessions require a pre-registration, familiarize yourself with the venue map and check who and where you can meet after the event. Stick with a local or someone who knows the way around. Make a plan of what you want to do and achieve. You won’t be able to do everything, so prioritize. When meeting new people don’t sell, be yourself. Unless you’re a di**, then be someone else.?

The art of pitch ??

Pitching is opening doors, creating opportunities and circumstances to make things happen. Your pitch sets expectations and helps others get to know you. It’s not “Dragon’s Den. In 99% of cases you won’t land a deal on the spot. It’s a tool which hopefully leads you to the table behind you’ll sign that deal. So be confident and be honest. Research your recipient and personalise your pitch by finding common ground. Don’t oversell, but put emphasis on your strengths, past experience and successes. Always come with a logline - a 2 sentence highly memorable description of your project. Support your pitch with a presentation or EPK (electronic press kit). Use only relevant information and restrain yourself from writing too much. Follow-up after your pitch, but don’t be pushy. No one likes pushy people.

The strength behind associations???

Branch associations, organisations and networks unite particular people around a specific topic or area of interest. Although it may not sound as fun, interesting and exciting to be a part of an organisation, you can give it a shot. Being a part of this type of structure gives you direct access to more experienced and connected people, who, when asked, can offer you help. Committing to an organisation helps you dive deeper into the matter and understand what’s beneath the surface. Although your membership may come at a price, many organisations offer additional perks which aren’t available for regular people (educational programmes, workshops, mentorships, grants, funding). It’s an investment worth considering.?

Be true to yourself and have a shot at every chance you have. Present yourself as the best person to work with ever, and be that guy. Be the “I know a guy” guy.