Earning a music production degree is a fantastic achievement, but the reality of the job market can be daunting. If you’re finding the search challenging, remember the creativity that drew you to this field. The key to securing music production roles lies in applying that creative spirit to your job hunt itself.
Three core principles will guide you in your innovative search for music production employment:
1. The Hidden Job Market: A significant portion of music production positions—up to 90%—are never publicly advertised. Companies often receive a sufficient volume of unsolicited resumes, allowing them to fill roles internally.
2. Networking is Essential: Many music production roles require strong networking abilities. Demonstrating your networking skills during the job search proves you possess a key requirement for the position.
3. Internships as Pathways: Internships can be invaluable. A substantial percentage of employers extend full-time offers to interns upon completion of their programs. This provides a strong argument for pursuing internship opportunities.
With these principles in mind, the following blueprint will help you conduct a creative music production job search and land your desired position:
1. Thorough Research: Immerse yourself in the specific music production roles you’re targeting. Explore online resources, libraries, and bookstores to gather comprehensive knowledge.
2. Strategic Networking: Compile a list of contacts who might be able to assist you. Include former instructors, business contacts, and individuals you’ve met through various channels. Did you work on sound for a band, intern at a publishing house, or attend industry events? These experiences can provide valuable connections.
Embrace boldness in your approach. Request introductions or permission to use someone’s name when contacting others. A confident statement, such as, “Hello Mr./Ms. [Producer Name], I’m [Your Name]. Professor [Professor’s Name] suggested I contact you regarding internship opportunities at your company,” can be remarkably effective. Would this be a good time to briefly discuss this?
3. Multiple Contact Methods: There are several ways to connect with individuals who hold the keys to music production jobs.
* Mail: The traditional approach. Research target companies and hiring managers, then send a resume and compelling cover letter. Follow up on your initial mailing, as companies receive many unsolicited resumes.
* Email: A suitable way to follow up. After mailing your resume, send a follow-up email to the hiring manager, expressing your continued interest in discussing career opportunities. If you haven’t mailed a resume, send a cover letter and resume via email, and follow up with a second email a few days later.
* Telephone: While potentially daunting, phone calls offer a direct line to the person you need to reach. Remember to be pleasant, concise, and direct, respecting the hiring manager’s time.
The secret to securing music production jobs is to be proactive, confident, and persistent in showcasing your skills and abilities. Given that a substantial portion of available positions aren’t publicly advertised, this proactive approach is essential to discovering the hidden opportunities in the music production industry.