The holiday season is in full swing, and so are holiday parties. As an indie artist, holiday parties present you with a great opportunity for networking. As with any networking event, you should make the most of it and look at them as an opportunity to advance your music career. And, you might end up having more fun sipping eggnog and hobnobbing that you expected.

Here are some tips to capitalize on the merriment:

1. Go to parties. Don’t turn down an invite. You never know who you’ll meet — unless you don’t go. Consider each party a requirement of your career as an indie artist. It’s important not to miss out on any opportunity to meet people who can help you move your music career forward.
2. Have your elevator pitch ready. Every person at the party has the potential to help your career, so make a great first impression by telling them about yourself easily and concisely. Know who you are, what you sound like, and what your plans are.
3. Take cards and take notes. You’re likely to walk away from the party with a lot of business cards. But how are you going to remember each person and the important information they provided you with (as in: “here’s a good booking agent to reach out to,” “this is the name of a great web designer,” etc.)? Take notes. Write important info on their business cards. This will help jog your memory when you reach out to them again.
4. Be confident and natural. Think of the people at the party as your peers, not as people you’re trying to get something from. Remember that you have something to offer, too. So ask questions, engage in conversation and try to find something that you both have in common to talk about. If it’s a music industry party, you will likely have a lot to discuss.
5. Keep in touch. Ask for business cards from everyone you meet — and give business cards, as well. Post-party, follow up with your new contacts and mention something from your conversation to help them remember you.

Holiday parties are a great opportunity for you an indie artist, so put on your best holiday outfit, and work the room. Make 2012 your most successful year yet.

Tell us what you think! What are your tips for attending holiday parties?

The SongCast Crew