There’s a lot a manager can do for you and they may be a valuable addition to the team, but you may also feel that you can handle the responsibilities on your own.

Deciding when is right to get management for your music, or if you even need an artist manager, is tough to do. Thankfully, we have a helpful video that talks a bit about what a manager will really do to help you decide whether you should start looking for one.

Do you NEED a manager?

Whilst getting a manager might seem like the next step for a musician on the way to success, there’s no rule that says artists have to hire a manager. If you’re business savvy and an organised, driven person, you can do all the jobs a manager does by yourself.

A manager is an extra pair of hands and a shoulder to lean on – they’re not the magic fix for success. Even with a manger, you’ll still need to focus up and keep working hard to make your music the best it can be, whilst navigating the industry in a smart and professional way.

Having no manager is far better than having a bad manager who is interested in their own success above yours. Nowadays independent artists can have incredible success with a DIY approach – certainly at the beginning of your artist journey. That’s the spirit that we love here at RouteNote.

Our unlimited digital music distribution gives you the tools you need to release your music into the world on your own terms. We can get your tracks onto Spotify and other massive platforms for free.

Once your music is online and building momentum, you might realise you’d like someone to help oversee all the moving pieces of your music career. Or – you might fall in love with the independent lifestyle, and decide you don’t need a manager after all.

How to get an artist manager

If you’ve decided that an artist manager could bring value to your career, the next step is figuring out how to attract the right one. Here are some steps you can take to find and secure a manager who aligns with your goals and vision:

  1. Define your goals and brand
    Before reaching out, be clear about what you want in a manager and what you want for your career. Identify your brand, strengths, and the areas where you could use support. Managers are most effective when they understand your vision, so know what you’re looking for and communicate it clearly.
  2. Do your research
    Look into managers who represent artists with similar styles and career goals. Pay attention to their clients and what they’ve accomplished to see if their management style aligns with your needs. Check their background, reputation, and track record, as a manager’s connections and credibility in the industry are essential.
  3. Build your network
    Connect with other musicians, producers, and industry professionals who might know the right managers. Attend industry events, music festivals, and workshops to increase your visibility. Sometimes the best introductions come from mutual connections who believe in your work.
  4. Create an online presence that speaks for you
    Managers often scout talent online, so make sure your social media profiles and website represent you well. Share high-quality content that reflects your music, brand, and personality. Include contact information so it’s easy for a potential manager to reach out.
  5. Prepare your pitch
    When you’re ready to approach a manager, prepare a brief, professional pitch that introduces yourself, your music, and what you’re looking for. Highlight any successes you’ve had, like streaming milestones, press coverage, or notable collaborations, to show that you’re already gaining traction.
  6. Consider experience and connections
    A good manager not only shares your vision but also has industry connections that can open doors for you. Managers with established relationships with booking agents, labels, and media can help you access better opportunities. Think of their experience as an asset that will support your growth.
  7. Look for compatibility
    Finding a manager isn’t just about credentials – it’s about finding someone who respects your artistic direction. When meeting potential managers, assess how well they understand your goals and whether they genuinely believe in your music. It’s super important to find a manager with a personality that compliments your own, since you will be working so closely together. The right fit will come from mutual trust and respect, as well as actually liking each other.
  8. Stay patient and persistent
    Finding the perfect manager can take time, so keep building your career independently while you search. If you stay focused, grow your fanbase, and remain consistent, the right manager will recognise your dedication and potential when the timing aligns.

In summary

It’s completely up to you whether you try to grow your career alone, or whether you enlist the help of an artist manager. Nobody can make that decision for you, but it’s good to have a careful think about it before you decide. Consider where you’re at in your career, what your goals are, and how exactly you’d hope a manager could help you.

Once you’ve pondered on these points, you’ll be better equipped to identify the ideal manager for you. Do their goals align with yours, do they have the expertise and experience that could help get you there? Most importantly of all, do you think you’ll get along with them while spending an intense amount of time dealing with one another? If yes to all these, then you’re in business. If you’re struggling to find the perfect fit, remember that it’s best to have no manager than a bad one. Be patient, and you’ll find the right person to work with eventually. Just be sure to keep your sights firmly set on your goals while you wait.

Want to learn more about what an artist manager actually does? Check out this article here.