Preparing for a Job in Recording

Finding the right job in recording can be challenging, but once you do, it's an exciting and rewarding career to have. Those who work in the recording industry are often on the cutting edge of the music scene, working with singers, musicians, music label presidents, and a host of other creative people. If you are considering entering the recording industry, particularly if you have little experience in the field, there are certain steps you can take to prepare. To make yourself an attractive job candidate for a potential employer, consider the following:

1. Narrow your focus. Many people are eager to jump into the music business, but don't quite know what they want to do. You may know you want to want to work one-on-one with the bands that come in to record, or perhaps you see yourself in a more technical role. If you can't name the exact position you want to acquire, it's time to do some research. Learn every role there is to play in the music industry. Make sure that your talents and interests match the position you wish to fill. If you're efficient, good with time management and overseeing personnel, you may make a great studio owner. If you want to control and manipulate the sound produced in the recording booth, a position as audio engineer may suit you perfectly.

2. Learn your craft. Before you start sending in job applications, you'll need to acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to do the job. There are a variety of recording school options available that will train you to work in the music business. Depending on your interests, you may learn everything from audio mixing to music theory to finance.

3. Find an internship. The best recording schools will connect you to a local internship where you can turn your classroom knowledge into hands-on experience. Even if you don't attend school, you can contact local recording studios to see if they have internships available. (Many times these will be listed on the studio's web site, but if not, it never hurts to make a call.) 

4. Make Connections. It is vitally important that you make good connections, be it at school, at your internship, or anywhere else. Like so many jobs in the entertainment industry, the recording business is all about who you know. Be gracious to everyone you meet--this is not the time to burn bridges. Teachers, employers, and friends of friends of friends in the business can all serve as mentors, guiding you in your career and helping you land your first job.