Think Globally

Music connects different cultures around the world with a single push of the play button. The listener becomes a part of the thought process of the singer and songwriter through the understanding of the lyrics and vocal delivery. This was me the past couple of months as I interned at a major country record label in Nashville. Who would have thought this Arkansan who loves mostly gospel music would intern for a country record label? Although the internship was in the Contemporary Christian Music Department, majority of the music that was played was country. It was awkward at the beginning of the internship, but my mind began to change because it forced me to get rid of small mindedness and indulge myself in something new. Two weeks later, I found myself singing “Tornado” by Little Big Town, “Don’t Ya” by Brett Eldredge, and watching the Country Music Awards.

What was happening? A global mindset was being developed. As aspiring business owners, music industry professionals and artists, we must be sure to take part in areas that are not common to us because this industry is global. Who wants to work with someone who has limited knowledge about global information? Below are a few ways I found helpful in learning about the country music industry that can be applied to any situation.

1.     Subscribe to major publications in that area. Ask people who are familiar with these publications what are special about them. Why did they subscribe? Read as much information you can and ask questions.

2.     Connectwith a professional. Go to LinkedIn or do a Google search for an industry professional, connect with them, and ask for an informational interview. Oftentimes, people are willing to talk about themselves and what they love to do every day. LISTEN to these people, and learn all you can.

3.     NETWORK, NETWORK, NETWORK. Although this may not be an area of interest to you, but the person can help you somewhere down the line. Never feel that if they cannot help you at this time, then they are useless. Look to nurture the relationship because major opportunities come from relationships.