My earlier music industry tip was to not burn bridges – but also try to remember to be easy to work with and be flexible.

A good reputation carries a lot of weight. While remembering to let certain arguments go and being humble- being  flexible is just as important.

Try to remember that when you see new networking situations come up. Being flexible in these cases can often lead to new possibilities if you keep a open mind.

Email – have a template to use

Create an automated template for emails to your fans. Take the time to add the person’s name with a personal tidbit, but save time with a  email  layout that is already created.

If you have reverbnation account, this should already be done for you.

If you do not – get one. If you need a more robust email system, try mailchimp. They are super easy to use and if you have  a email list with less than 500 people you can use their free account!

Also try to respond to unsolicited emails with your own personalized marketing message and a link to your website.

Every chance you get ALWAYS REMEMBER ITS ABOUT PLUGGING YOUR MUSIC!

Pick a Genre!

I know many musicians fight me on this fact, but you MUST select a genre for your music and stay somewhat consistent – at least until you have gain more leverage in the music industry.

With sites like soundcloud, last.fm and other music sites that allow users to find new music by typing in their particular genre of choice (i.e house, dubstep, hip-hop,etc) Its important to make sure your profiles, bios, and tracks is also tagged with the genre.

Don’t forget those .mp3 files – make sure they also have genre, title, artist and other relevant information.

Join the party!

Even if you aren’t in the mood – try to attend events and networking parties. Try to go to ones that aren’t just musicians. Other creative industries like designers, programmer and video production networking events can lead to other ways to showcase your work.

When asked “what do you do”, don’t answer with your day job – your there for your music! Tell the potentially new fan/business associate you are a musician and hand them your business card.

If you don’t have a business card get one!

Don’t burn bridges.

Seems like a simple piece of advice!

Showing up late, not handling conflict appropriately and other bad ways of doing business can hurt you in the long run. The music industry is a relatively small and close knit community. Just because someone is not in a huge position, especially locally, you MUST always remember to be a professional – even if the other person is not.

That means you may eat several slices of humble pie…but its worth eating if you have a whole success cake served to you on a silver platter.