4 Rules of Networking for Musicians, Live at a Real Event (Episode 186)

Work begets work.

Nomad hates the word networking. He would rather call it relationship building. In Episode 186 of The Career Musician, he doesn't just explain his rules, he takes you along: into the truck, to a non-music fundraising event, and into real conversations with strangers. It is the most hands-on lesson in networking for musicians the show has done.

The rules kept growing as he talked (two, no, three, no, definitely four), and that is part of the fun. Here they are.

Rule 1: Get up, dress up, show up

The episode opens with Nomad putting the truck in gear. He admits he has been "mega guilty" of not showing up in the past. This time he had an event he didn't have to go to, but should, so he went, and brought you with him.

Showing up when no one requires it is Energy from the ETHOS code. It is also how work begets work: you can't be called for what you are not in the room for.

Rule 2: Go to non-music events

Why would a musician go to a non-music event? Because there won't be many other musicians there. You will stand out. At this one, Nomad guesses he was one of maybe 20 musicians out of 500 or 600 people.

Come prepared. He carries business cards and giant guitar picks printed with a QR code, picks in one small pocket and cards in the main pocket, so he never looks like he is fumbling around for them. At fundraisers, he adds, look at the auction table: donating a gig, lessons or studio time as an auction item is a great way to get work.

Rule 3: The six-word icebreaker

You have to talk first, but only long enough to start. Then practice listening, because people love talking about themselves and what is going on in their lives.

"So what's going on with you? Bam. Those six words can spawn a relationship that you will cultivate."

Nomad, 2:44

Talk once, listen a bunch. That is Humility in action, and it is the easiest icebreaker there is.

Rule 4: The three-foot rule

If you are within three feet of somebody, talk to them. In line, on a shuttle, wherever. Nomad doesn't care if they are maintenance staff or look like they don't want to talk. Let go of your preconceived notions and say hello.

"If you are within three feet proximity of somebody, talk to them. Don't ignore people."

Nomad, 3:32

Then he proves it. On the golf shuttle from the parking lot he meets Jordan, and by the time they arrive they are chatting about the vlog and "relationship building." One more tip from the walk in: remember to smile. When you are searching for something, you wear a serious face. Friendly faces attract people.

The takeaway

Maybe you get a gig from an event like this, maybe you don't. What you will get is relationships that grow into something. Everything you do is an audition, including the shuttle ride. For your next step, grab the free Get the Gig guide.

Get the gig. Keep the gig. Build the career.

Watch on YouTube or find every episode on the TCM Podcast page.