Any advice for an experienced creative content manager who wants to work in the music industry but never worked in it?
Been interested in working in the music industry for a while but got caught in the loop where everyone wants someone who has already experience in it.
Replies8
- @Kenny Vaughan That is a very valid point, I have many interesting and usefull contact in the music industry on Linkedin but never pro-actively look for feedback or recommendations. You gave me a few ideas Kenny and thank you for the link you shared, I actually never considered webinar. Really appreciated!
- Hey Martina,I really like this question. I think that connecting with people is probably the best way you can gain traction in any industry, rather than being in the 'Top Trumps' game against other people who try to out-experience eachother in the application games.I think places like The Dots and Linkedin are two great routes to speak to people, ask for advice, build relationships with those in the industry that share the same values as you, or even those who do the job you want to do. A good manager/team will be looking to hire for transferable skills and a good attitude over experience as the capability in the role will be easy to catch up.Lots of opportunities are present for not having experience, such as having experience in areas that team may want to expand into, presenting you with a unique element. You could try smaller creative teams that work with the music industry, or management companies that want experience outside of the music industry as a focus to create a bridge between two worlds e.g. music and fashion, music and video games etc.Some roles, perhaps more administration focused one, may require you to work through the rungs to understand the work culture and the process of the industry before having any creative control or individual contribution to it. Not that that should deter you for going in anyway!I'd finally advise getting some experience in the business of the industry to help understand if you actually want to be part of that industry. For music, I'd suggest webinars. Chris Cooke is an industry wizard and does a few, always full of gold and CMU is v reputable: https://cmuinsights.com/webinars/https://cmuinsights.com/webinars/Good luck - Let's connect and keep in touch though, I see your efforts!
- @Kymberlee Jay very much appreciated! Thank you
- @Asher Harris true !
- I have a similar issues when trying to get new clients. Emphasise your ability to empathise. I've never worn lingerie, I'm not transgender, I don't work in wealth management, but I've written copy for a feminist lingeire company, a magazine for transgender women and a welath management firm. Also, highlight what a lot of people forget - The existence of Google means you can learn a hell of a lot in a short space of time. Hope this helps.
- Hey Martina,I have some experience working with record labels, artist management and publishing organisations. It is difficult to get your foot in the door when you don't have a music industry background, so I'd recommend being even MORE direct.If there's an opportunity on a first application to talk about your experience before you get to phone call stage, say something along the lines of:"I have ZERO experience in the music industry - but, before you write-off my application you should know that what I lack in sector experience, I more than make up for in my determination, my commitment to excellence and achieving tangible results for my clients (employers?). If you're looking for someone who is primed and ready to create content strategies that ensure brand perception remains consistently remarkable, we really should talk."Yep, it's ballsy. But:a) You have absolutely nothing to lose and;b) I can tell you from experience that it's the ballsy ones who get the gigs ;)Just my two-cents for you.Kym.
- @Rebekah Ellerby thank you. I mean I agree with you but I felt discouraged when the experience requested is already inside the JDs and you can’t even make it to a first phone call.
- Prove your passion! If you can show your enthusiasm and expertise in the subject matter, it’s definitely possible to move sectors, with your transferable skills. I’ve worked across lots of different creative industries (circus, theatre, festivals, tv) and each time it’s just been about showing you care.
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