(Part 1 here) One of the most essential parts of building any career is networking. Especially when it's a large one with many people and a lot of competition. With people at your level, you can help each other grow. Those above you can help you get to more opportunities and put more projects and experience under your belt. Networking has changed over the past year and a half with the pandemic. But with technology, anything is possible.
I didn't always like networking. I've always been an introverted, quiet person. I wasn't good at placing myself into a conversation and talking with people I didn't know. I remember my first networking event I went to was a showcase when I was 18. I stayed in the corner for the first half-hour until someone came to get me. She was a really amazing woman who was great at starting conversations. She introduced me to a lot of people and helped me out when I didn't ask. But she could see that I needed it, and I'm glad she did. Now, I'm a lot better at introducing myself because I learned from her and from experience. There were some times where I'd get ignored or where people walked away, but I didn't want to let rejection stop me from growing. Because I didn't, I've been able to collaborate with other producers, meet other artists and gain some great experience!
Recently things have been shut down and moved online. This creates an opportunity to get to know those who are nowhere around you. Be in NYC and network with artists and producers in Tennessee and California if you like. There aren't as many expectations to meet up in person, and virtual studios are incredible ways to collaborate. (Seriously, look it up! virtual studios are blowing my mind right now!) Facebook groups, Instagram pages, and apps like Bumble and Shapr are great too.
I'm now able to collaborate with people online, and it's great. I have producers I can talk to regularly and mixing engineers who can help me. Even just having someone to talk to about your journey can be invaluable. Especially if those around you don't have the same passion and journey. It's not only for the opportunities but for the support. Now I have 4 people on my team; a singer who's been performing for decades, an experienced producer, a mixing engineer, and a studio engineer/teacher. I'm going to continue working with these folks and growing as a professional.