I just returned from the second annual Hyperfest Music Conference & Festival. It was a lot of fun but makes me think of plenty of do’s and not to do’s. It’s interesting how many indie musicians have good intentions but don’t have a game plan in place when attending these conferences. I have some helpful tips below.
Here is my list.
TO DO:
Have plenty of CDs (with the wrapper removed) and business cards on you. I’m amazed how many people don’t do this!
Smile and be approachable. This is a network event so make the most of it!
Meet and mingle with music industry professionals as well as other musicians. You never know who can help you.
Attend workshops & panels. You can never know it all. Take the time to learn something new.
Be professional. Always, always be professional.
Follow up! What is the point of meeting all these new people if you don’t take the time when you get home to send a follow-up email, phone call or hand written note.
WHAT NOT TO DO:
Think you’re better than everyone else. No one likes a diva.
Arrive late for your showcase. It’s a great way to not get invited back!
Not be prepared to showcase. Be rehearsed. Be well groomed. Always look your best. Don’t look like you just rolled out of bed.
I hope you found this useful! Please feel free to get in touch with me if you have any questions or comments. And be sure to check out my BLOG at www.madalynsblog.com
Copyright © 2007 Madalyn Sklar, IndieMusicCoach
Madalyn Sklar is a music business coach, consultant and author. She founded IndieMusicCoach and has spent over 11 years working with a wide range of independent musicians all over the world – U.S., Canada and Japan thus far. Her goal is to help indie artists achieve greater success in the music business by working smarter not harder. She is also the founder of GoGirlsMusic.com, the oldest and largest online community of indie women musicians, with a vision of bringing together and empowering musicians from around the world.
