As a freshman music major I thought I had escaped the world of networking, thinking it was strictly for the business students and finance bros. Instead, networking has shown me cool career paths, given me opportunities and jobs, and allowed me to meet some really cool people, all before graduating.
3 ways to get the most out of networking:
1. Broaden Your Scope
Despite majoring in classical violin performance, my coolest opportunities came from taking a music production class. It opened up a world I was unaware of. It led to my current jobs in live sound, allowed me to meet so many interesting musicians, and helped me get my foot in the door of the music industry.
2. Take Make Every Opportunity
When I took the music production class, I knew I wanted to do more Unfortunately, it’s the only production class offered. Despite knowing very little and being inexperienced, I went to the professor and asked if they take interns at her recording studio, and she said no, but let me start shadowing her. Soon I had worked alongside every person at the studio. All because I had the courage to ask (and follow up in an email).
3. STAY ORGANIZED
Networking isn’t possible without consistent organization. Once you start reaching out and opportunities come back, you have to track them. Knowing when to follow up on emails, show up for opportunities, or say no and prioritize school is essential to creating and maintaining your networks. I use Notion and Notion Calendar to stay organized (https://www.notion.com/).