Artists come in many different forms. Your favorite rapper, who is very outspoken in their lyrics, may very well be shy and reserved in person, and that’s perfect okay. Many artists feel pressured to act like a star when they become one or are working towards becoming one. However, music is supposed to be an outlet. Artists sometimes make music in order to express themselves in a way they simply cannnot express through words. Although being reserved off the stage and outside of the booth is understandable, there is still business that needs to be done — talking and networking is an integral part. Although holding a conversation with a stranger could be terrifying because of how awkward or shy you are, it’s an important skill to master in order to grow in your success. Here are a few tricks of the trade that have helped me, and will hopefully help you out as well.
1. Embrace Yourself for Who You Are. Don’t deny your awkwardness. Know who you are and accept it! I used to hate being so awkward. I was embarrassed about it. But one day, I decided I won’t be ashamed any longer. I know I’m awkward, I know I stutter when I’m nervous and it is no big deal. I can promise you that people barely even notice. So many times I would meet people and replay it in my head later and beat myself up for being a weirdo. Then, later when I get to know them and tell them how nervous I was when we first met, they almost always tell me that they didn’t even notice.
2. This is a Job. We all started somewhere, and for most of us it was our 9-5 day job. This usually entails some sort of customer service. Your music career is not much different. You’re selling a product. You probably don’t have to put on a professional voice, but that level of comfort you felt when speaking to the customers is the same level of comfort you should feel when speaking to others. You can’t be shy if you want to get paid.
3. You Are Your Own Boss. Starting off in the industry as a manager definitely helped me. I was forced to learn how to effectively communicate with influencers — journalists, curators, other artists, etc. My role as a manager taught me professionalism. It made me feel important when I spoke and gave me a sense of purpose. Why not be your own manager? Do your research, so that when you speak, you feel comfortable because you know what you’re talking about. When it’s time to network, don’t think like an artist. Think like a manager. Remember that networking helps and don’t be hesitant to do what you have to do to advance your career.
4. Know the Difference. There are times when you may feel uncomfortable because of your own social skills but sometimes the vibes that people give off just don’t sit right. Know when it’s you or them and act accordingly. It doesn’t matter how important someone may seem to be or how working with them may or may not help you. If this person makes you feel uncomfortable, remove yourself from the situation.
5. It’s Just a Person. Remember when we were young and almost every cartoon about stage fright said to imagine the crowd in their underwear? We are all just people! If you’re nervous about talking to someone, don’t be. They are just a person. Not everyone is rude when you speak to them, and if they are, it says a lot more about them then it does about you. Don’t feel pressured to be friends with everyone you meet. Sometimes it’s just going to be a business relationship. Don’t force it. Remembering that can ease the awkward tension when meeting someone new.
If you are an artist, you are going to have to make connections and meet as many people as you can. Don’t let being shy hold you back. Chase your dreams and meet some awesome people while you’re at it!
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