Making music isn’t the only way to enter your favorite industry and it certainly isn’t the only way to make money from the industry. If you have wanted to work on the business side of things to learn the ropes while also making music then getting a job at a record label will be the perfect first step for you.

If you’re sure you want music to be your entire life, then getting a job at a record label is a great way to not only add an additional skill to your repertoire but also stay connected to what’s happening in the industry and always have insider information about the music scene.

This can really help, especially if you feel like opening your own label down the road, the experience that you can gain at a record label have the potential to be a game-changer career-wise.

What to expect at your record label job

Be forewarned though that this is probably not going to be your average 9-5 job that you would expect in any other discipline. Working on the business side of things can mean low pay, numerous late nights, plenty of stress, and maybe even traveling, depending on your role and position in the firm.

It's also a job that requires you to be very social and network your way through life. So, if you don’t have a friendly personality or find social interactions hard, then maybe this isn’t the right fit for you. There is simply no space in this business for someone who isn’t an enthusiastic extrovert.

How to open doors to record labels

However, if you’re sure you want to make it big in the music scene, here’s how. The first thing to do will be to try and land an internship in a record label, this can be an indie record studio or a big firm, both provide great beginner opportunities to get your foot in the door. Internships may be unpaid or be paid a minimum wage, so bear that in mind, because you might not be making a whole lot at this stage of your career.

You can even take a few college courses that can help make you a more appealing candidate for studios. This can be a choice that most might not stress too much about, but it is one of the most important things that you can do for yourself. Firstly, think about where in a recording studio would you eventually want to work. In PR? HR? As an entertainment Lawyer? Or even in sound engineering or production.

Depending on what your preference is look for local opportunities at community colleges to see if you can pursue a degree or certification to get you the most relevant skills, in the shortest amount of time, for the least amount of money. This will ensure that you don’t waste too much time in school and don’t graduate with a lot of debt on your hands.

Similarly, being a musician, having a band, or having plenty of connections, are all relevant skills that can set you apart from the competition. Anything that can possibly give you an edge should be honed and focused upon.

Working at a record label can be a dream job, but don't take for granted it requires hard work.

Music industry experience is needed and how to gain it

Next, if you find yourself in the never-ending cycle of not finding an internship because you don’t have experience and not having experience because you don’t have an internship, don’t worry. Everyone goes through this no matter which industry they are trying to break into.

While you look for an internship or an entry-level position, try looking for other jobs that will gain you some experience. These can be managing a band, working at a popular concert or performance venue, or even trying to sell tickets. All of these, if done well can be counted towards industry-relevant experience and help in landing you a job at a record label.

At the same time, you can also use social media to your advantage. If you’re a musician yourself, try marketing yourself attractively on social media or help an upcoming band or singer gain popularity on social media.

Record labels cannot deny the exposure that people get from these platforms and so hiring someone who knows the ins and outs of all new and relevant social media platforms can be a good decision for them and something that they will definitely value on a resume.

Start with confidence and belief in yourself

Lastly, don’t undersell yourself or downplay your experience, instead, once you’ve put in the work, appear confident in interviews and be honest about what you want from the job. Preparing for an interview, even for an internship can be a lengthy task.

Make sure you have studied the company thoroughly, and know all of the information that is available about them online. Their latest projects, their financials, where they are struggling, what they can do in the future. Even if your ideas seem far-fetched, putting them out there and thinking out of the box can be a plus point.

Plus, dressing professionally and being polite can go a long way, even if you have an informal or casual interview with someone that’s only going to last a few minutes. First impressions are important and can never be changed, so make sure you put your best foot forward no matter who’s going to be talking to you. Whether it’s a big firm or a small indie record label, prepare for both in-depth and make sure to think about what they ask you before responding.

Make sure you do your homework about the record labels you want to work for.

Show interest in the label you are after

Lastly, ask them questions about themselves or the business. These can be follow-ups from what they’ve told you or something you’ve genuinely wanted to know since you were researching them as a part of your preparation. Questions make people think and remember you, so make sure you have a list of them ready for when the interview is getting to the end.

Hopefully, after all of these pointers, tips, and tricks you’ll be able to find something in the industry of your dreams. Remember, everyone goes through this process and so it’s important to not lose faith and hope. You’ve got this!

Article sources: Music industry how to | CHRON | Music Think Tank