I was looking back at one of my Blog Posts from last year, “We Can All Use A Sage”, and I thought it was timely to revisit the message of this post.
Over the past year, I have found way too many artists, young managers and people trying to break into the music industry, not taking the time to network, build relationships and learn from others who have done what they are trying to achieve.
I don’t know why this skill-set isn’t more prevalent and widespread amongst the Independent Music Community. Am I wrong? I would definitely love to hear your thoughts and insight regarding this.
And this is why I decided to talk about this, and see if the skill of networking can become a more focused aspect of helping to grow your career.
So here is my original post.
Education. Connection. Research. Conversation. Experience.
These five words make up a process of learning for me, and maybe for you. Yet, we all learn differently, and that is what inspired the topic for this Post.
Over the past year, I have been working to catch up on my reading. I didn’t realize how far behind I was. I spend a good amount of time reading Publications in the marketing, advertising, music, entertainment and sports industries.
One Publication that I subscribe to is Advertising Age, and one I highly recommend. Their Music Issue has been sitting on my desk for quite a while now, and there was an article that I wanted to read about Quest Love – “For The Love of the Quest” .
Let me tell you…..he is one busy guy. And he just won an Academy Award for Best Documentary for Summer of Soul!
After reading this article, it got me thinking about how he learned to do the many things that he does, and does so well. What motivated him to learn? Did he have a Sage?
And it made me think about the people, education and experiences that have helped me. I didn’t have one particular sage, I had many sages.
Learning is a constant, especially in the music, entertainment, sports and marketing industries. The business of these industries changes daily, so you have to make sure that you are on top of what is happening.
Seeking out the advice and experience of people who you trust, and who want to help you, is truly important. Connect with people who have done the things in your industry that you want to accomplish. Start a conversation with them, and you may be surprised what you learn.
I really enjoy teaching and working with people in this industry to help them further their knowledge and achieve the goals they have set.
Actually, I don’t think this would be possible if I didn’t have the many sages who have taught me over the years. And I always made sure that I stayed in touch, and let them know what I am doing now, and if I can be of any help to them.
But more importantly, I wanted to know what they are doing, and what I can continue to learn from them. These are the invaluable assets you acquire along the road to learning.
Education. Connection. Research. Conversation. Experience.
Words to learn by!
Take a moment to think about the people in the music and entertainment industry who you would like to get to know, and talk with. Challenge yourself to make a list of those people, and work on contacting them. You just might be surprised at what happens.
Stay connected!
Kevin
