Mastering Music Industry Networking: How Genuine Connections Can Boost Your Career

Sometimes, all it takes is one moment of swallowing pride and just doing the right thing to change your fortunes.

I remember the time I had to force someone I knew to stop being a dick for once and go make amends with someone they’d wronged. As awkward as it was, that single act of kindness led to us landing an opening spot for a big band—a moment that shifted everything for us as artists. It made me realize that networking isn’t just about shaking hands or asking for favours; it’s about building real, human connections. And sometimes, that starts with just being decent to people.

With that in mind, here’s how you can use authenticity and connection to start making waves in your music career…

1. Start Local and Build from the Ground Up

When you’re just starting out, attending formal networking events might not yield much success, especially if you don’t yet have value to offer people further along in their careers. Rather than focusing on those, immerse yourself in your local music scene. This is where the real, meaningful connections happen. Small venues, local bars, and DIY shows are where independent artists and bands—just like you—are hanging out.

• Get involved in the community: Go to shows at local spots where your genre thrives. Don’t just show up and leave—stick around after the sets. You’ll often find artists hanging by the bar or smoking on the patio. These informal settings are perfect for striking up conversations.
• Start with what you have: If your friend or roommate knows a local musician or producer, use that connection. Start by offering free or low-cost services to get your foot in the door. Small gigs can build momentum, and the more projects you do, the more your name will circulate in the local scene.

2. Leverage Collaborations to Grow Your Network

One of the most powerful ways to grow your presence is through collaborations. Whether you’re a graphic designer, producer, musician, or other creative, working with others will not only help you develop your skills but also expand your audience.

• Collaborate with other artists: Reach out to local musicians or producers and offer your services. Whether it’s designing album art, producing a track, or performing together, these partnerships can lead to new connections. When you collaborate, you tap into their fan base, and their fans can become your fans.
• Work with influencers: Even at a local level, there are influencers—people who have a following, whether online or in your local scene. If you can get involved in a project with them, you increase your visibility. That said, don’t be that guy who’s constantly brown-nosing people and willing to take shit for the hope of doing a collab. Nothing is worth that. Just try to work with them, but don’t break a leg in the attempt.

3. Attend Industry Events for Bigger Exposure

Once you’ve built some credibility and a body of work locally, it’s time to expand your reach by attending industry events. Conferences, festivals, and showcases are incredible opportunities to meet people from across the industry—other artists, producers, managers, and label reps.

• Go with a purpose: Don’t attend these events just to check them out. Go in with a plan—meet people, ask questions, and introduce yourself in a genuine way. These events can be intimidating, but the connections you make could open doors to larger projects or collaborations.
• Engage in conversations: A key part of networking is knowing how to engage with people in a meaningful way. Ask about their work, share stories, and be genuinely interested in what they have to say. You never know who might become a valuable contact.

4. Build Relationships with Media Contacts

Your music needs to be heard, and one of the most effective ways to get exposure is through media—journalists, bloggers, DJs, and influencers. These people have platforms that can reach a wider audience, and building relationships with them can significantly boost your career.

• Start small and build trust: Reach out to local bloggers or DJs and introduce yourself. Send them your work, but don’t just ask for coverage—build a relationship. Share insights about your process, and make yourself available for interviews or features.
• Create value for them: Journalists and bloggers are always looking for fresh content. If you can present a unique angle or story about your music, you’re more likely to get coverage. Don’t just pitch yourself—pitch a compelling narrative about what makes your work stand out.

5. Be Ready to Offer Value

Whether you’re working with artists, meeting influencers, or connecting with media contacts, one of the biggest challenges early on is offering value when you feel like you don’t have much to give. Here’s how you can still provide value and make genuine connections:

• Share your skills: If you’re just getting started, offer free or discounted work to artists or creators you admire. This helps you build a portfolio while gaining trust within the community.
• Be resourceful: Even if you’re not an industry veteran, you can still offer value by connecting people within your network. If you know a designer, an engineer, or another musician who could benefit someone you meet, offer that connection. Networking is often about facilitating opportunities, not just taking them.

6. Don’t Forget the Power of Authenticity

Above all else, be authentic. People can spot inauthenticity from a mile away, especially in creative communities. Whether you’re chatting with local artists at a bar or introducing yourself to a journalist at a festival, be genuine about your story, your ambitions, and your journey.

• Leverage your identity: If you’re a musician, use your experiences as a talking point. Share stories about crazy gigs or challenges you’ve faced. These experiences make you relatable and create a foundation for connection.
• Play the long game: Networking isn’t about quick wins—it’s about long-term relationships. Keep in touch with the people you meet, even if it’s just to check in or congratulate them on a recent project. These small gestures build a network that will support you throughout your career.

7. Put It All Together

The key to effective networking is patience, persistence, and being part of the community you want to serve. Start small, work locally, and leverage every opportunity to make genuine connections. From local venues and collaborations to industry events and media relationships, every interaction is a chance to expand your network and develop your career. Over time, these connections will open doors to bigger opportunities and help you establish yourself as a respected figure in the music industry.