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Here’s What You Need to Know to Become a Music Business Manager


— May 7, 2020

If you have anyone willing to share their experience or give you some advice, use that. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. The best way to advance is to constantly learn and improve yourself.


People who have proven themselves in the company and have enough experience get the role of a business manager. Depending on the industry you are going to work in, the responsibilities will be different. However, the main role will be to keep the company or client profitable and viable. However, this doesn’t mean you will have to do all the work on your own. In fact, you will have to make sure to get the maximum out of each member of your team.

If you are interested in becoming a business manager, then there are certain things you should know at the beginning.

What will you do as a Business Manager?

Before we start talking about how to become a business manager in music, we have to make sure first that you know what does a business manager does. Well, in simple terms the position is responsible for handling the client’s financial needs, no matter whether they are business related or personal. Of course, this is closely connected with filing taxes, protecting the client’s assets with insurance, and structuring the company, reviewing contracts, negotiating, and so on.

Advancement in career

Generally speaking, all business managers have started their careers as Interns. They had to work hard and take their steps up the career ladder. However, the most confusing part at the beginning is where should you start because the entry level positions are named differently amongst companies.

Most companies will make you try yourself in different areas of business management. They will simply make you perform various tasks for the client which means you will have to do royalties, touring, and so on. Other companies have different departments and once you feel confident in your knowledge, you get a chance to work your way up.

It is also important to take care of and constantly improve your knowledge. If needed, start from the basic principles and aim for a college degree in finance, business management, or accounting.

What are the essential skills needed to become a Business Manager?

If you want to become a successful business manager, the most important thing would be to gain experience through education and internships. You have to be hard-working, to understand that the job of a business manager isn’t as easy and glamorous as it may seem, and most importantly, to be ready to work extra hours.

Introvert or extrovert?

We can’t really say that you have to be an introvert or an extrovert to be successful. Each team consists of both personalities, but in order to advance in your career, you have to be able to freely communicate with your clients and make contacts within the music industry.

Work Lifestyle

Generally, the work lifestyle depends on the situation and the client you are working with. While most of the work is done through normal working hours, as the client becomes more popular, the working hours will change as well. After all, this is the main goal, so working extra hours is something to be expected.

Man in suit carrying green bag and walking in front of red wall; image by Clem Onojeghuo, via Unsplash.com.
Man in suit carrying green bag and walking in front of red wall; image by Clem Onojeghuo, via Unsplash.com.

What about Employment?

In order to work as a business manager, you have to own some financial and music industry skills and knowledge. Maybe you have no experience in the music industry, but you have to show that you are determined to succeed no matter what job you are planning to do. Another important thing is that you have to put yourself in surroundings which offer many opportunities in the music industry. If it means that you have to move in a bigger city, do it. Do your best to get an internship while you are still in college. In most cases, your future company will need someone to graduate college and have experience and this is your chance. Simply apply everywhere and do your best in interviews. And, once you get accepted, work the hardest you can and understand your position in the company. This is the best way to be rewarded with new chances to prove yourself and move up the career ladder.

Supporting Groups and Online Resources

You may find some online resources or professional groups on the Internet designed for individuals ready to get a job in business management. However, it is highly recommended to look for such organizations in your own community or in the nearest big city.

Summing Things Up

The best thing you can do while going to college is to work or intern. This will specifically emphasize your multitasking and hard-working abilities.

Don’t let the job description stop you from submitting your resume. Do it to every company you find interesting. Simply grab your long lasting and heavy-duty earbuds, listen to your favorite playlist, and submit your CV and cover letter to as many companies as possible. You never know who may be interested in you.

If you have anyone willing to share their experience or give you some advice, use that. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. The best way to advance is to constantly learn and improve yourself. Either go for a coffee or have a lunch together, it will show how eager to learn and advance you are.

If you are ready for all of this, then you are on the way to becoming a successful business manager in the music industry. Just stay focused and do your best.

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