Module 2.2

Effective networking requires strategy and intentionality. Random networking efforts yield random results. A strategic approach helps you build the right relationships with the right people at the right time.

• •*Setting Networking Goals:**

Define what you want to achieve:

• •Find collaborators for upcoming projects
• •Connect with venue bookers in specific cities
• •Build relationships with playlist curators
• •Meet potential mentors in your genre
• •Establish connections with music journalists
• •Find a manager or booking agent
• •Connect with other artists for support
• •*Identifying Target Connections:**

Create lists of specific people or types of people to connect with:

• •*By Role:**
• •10 venue bookers in cities you want to tour
• •20 playlist curators who feature your genre
• •15 music blogs that cover similar artists
• •5 producers whose work you admire
• •10 artists you'd like to collaborate with
• •*By Geography:**
• •Local music scene professionals
• •Regional promoters and bookers
• •National industry contacts
• •International opportunities (as you grow)
• •*By Career Stage:**
• •Peers at similar career levels (most important)
• •Professionals slightly ahead of you (mentors)
• •Emerging professionals you can grow with
• •Established industry figures (aspirational)
• •*Research and Preparation:**

Before reaching out to anyone:

• •Research their background and work
• •Understand what they're currently doing
• •Find genuine connections or common interests
• •Identify how you might be able to help them
• •Prepare thoughtful questions or conversation topics
• •Know their preferred communication method
• •*Creating a Networking Plan:**
• •*Monthly Goals:**
• •Attend 2-3 industry events or shows
• •Reach out to 10 new connections
• •Follow up with 10 existing connections
• •Share or support 20 people in your network
• •Engage authentically on social media daily
• •*Tracking Your Network:**

Use a CRM or spreadsheet to track:

• •Contact information
• •How you met
• •Conversation notes
• •Follow-up reminders
• •Relationship strength
• •Last contact date
• •Next steps
• •*Networking Channels:**
• •*In-Person Opportunities:**
• •Music conferences and industry events
• •Local shows and open mics
• •Networking mixers
• •Workshops and panels
• •Studio sessions
• •After-parties and social gatherings
• •*Online Opportunities:**
• •Social media engagement
• •Music forums and communities
• •Online conferences and webinars
• •Collaboration platforms
• •Music business groups
• •Discord servers and Slack channels
• •*The Follow-Up System:**

Networking doesn't end after the initial meeting:

• •*Immediate Follow-Up (24-48 hours):**
• •Send a personalized message referencing your conversation
• •Connect on LinkedIn or appropriate social media
• •Share something relevant they mentioned
• •Thank them for their time and insights
• •*Short-Term Follow-Up (1-2 weeks):**
• •Share an article or resource they'd find valuable
• •Make an introduction to someone in your network
• •Offer help with something they mentioned
• •Update them on a project you discussed
• •*Long-Term Maintenance (monthly/quarterly):**
• •Check in periodically without asking for anything
• •Congratulate them on achievements
• •Share their work with your audience
• •Invite them to events or opportunities
• •Keep them updated on your progress
• •*Building Reciprocal Relationships:**

The best networking is mutually beneficial:

• •*Ways to Offer Value:**
• •Share their music or work with your audience
• •Make introductions to people in your network
• •Offer your skills (design, photography, writing)
• •Provide feedback on their projects
• •Attend and promote their shows
• •Collaborate on content or projects
• •Support them on social media
• •*Avoiding Common Networking Mistakes:**

Don't:

• •Only reach out when you need something
• •Send generic, copy-paste messages
• •Be pushy or overly aggressive
• •Neglect to follow up after meeting
• •Forget to say thank you
• •Expect immediate results or favors
• •Burn bridges or speak negatively about others
• •*Measuring Networking Success:**

Track indicators of network health:

• •Number of quality connections made
• •Response rates to your outreach
• •Opportunities generated through network
• •Referrals and introductions received
• •Collaborations and partnerships formed
• •Support and engagement from network
• •Career advancement through connections
• •*Adjusting Your Strategy:**

Regularly assess what's working:

• •Which channels generate best connections?
• •What types of outreach get responses?
• •Which relationships are most valuable?
• •Where should you invest more time?
• •What should you stop doing?

Remember: Networking is a marathon, not a sprint. Focus on building genuine relationships, offering value consistently, and maintaining connections over time. Your network compounds—each quality connection can lead to many more.