Networking – most of us shiver when we hear this term thrown at us. However, the reality is that you may already be actively networking with necessarily realizing it. C Squared co-owner Cori Westbrook previously provided an insight into the importance of networking with some useful tips and tricks, which you can read here! In this blog post, we take a further dive into some of the basics you can begin to implement quickly and easily, to help expand your network in your local scene and beyond.
As a band or artist, networking can be considered in two ways those being networking and connecting with both new and old fans, as well as increasing your connections with other artists and industry professionals. The online space is, in many ways, a more accessible place to begin working on your virtual networking. You should be incorporating time into your schedule for social media and within that, specifically devoting time to networking. This can simply be 10 minutes a day when you’re waiting for the bus or the train.
In terms of increasing your fan base, first ensure that you understand exactly *who* is your target audience. Find more advice on how to do this here! Once you have a clear understanding of who to target, begin by interacting and engaging with relevant accounts. Any comments and messages sent must be genuine and must be polite, and respect any boundaries for example profiles that clearly state “no DMs”. Contacting individuals directly can be daunting but when done so with care and consideration it is a highly effective way to build up personal connections. Check out our post covering the faux pas to avoid on social media here! In addition to this, make use of the platform’s features such as stories by sharing your favourite songs from both local and larger scale bands and tag them. You may even wish to reach out to bands in your local scene and suggest you all partake in sharing each other’s music. When networking, it’s imperative to consider what you can bring to the table for others.
Advantages of networking online are that you can connect with those who you may not have the opportunity to meet in person. Where possible, showing up in person is still one of the most effective ways to network. Putting faces to names is far more personal than being mediated by a screen. Attend your local shows, keep an eye out for any events within your reach especially music industry events and even conferences. Be prepared in advance of these events and consider how else you can use them to network. Stickers and fliers are a relatively cheap way to get your name out there. Invest in good quality stickers with your name and logo and hand them out, make fliers or even business cards with QR codes to your latest release to give out or leave them around on tables etc. (if appropriate, check permissions where necessary). Furthermore, when attending shows or events look up who is attending; who they are, what they look like so you know who is who. After an event, follow up with any connections. It can be easy to lose touch, so be proactive at maintaining and building these relationships.
Cultivating genuine connections is key to furthering your music career. Supporting other musicians and your local scene is not only beneficial to you, but it will help to lift everyone up. Strengthening connections with your listeners will assist in growing your audience, it’s that personal touch that is so highly valued by fans.