Are you a college graduated flutist concerned about your career path?
Take heart. Your new career path is closer than you think.
Here are some pointers from our experts to help you transition from graduation day to the next phase of your life.
Consider what you want to accomplish in the months, years, and decades to come.
Ask yourself:
- What is your ideal job?
- In your ideal life, how would you like to spend your time?
- What are you working on with others?
- How much money do you need to live comfortably?
- When was the last time you put your flute skills to good use?
- What skills do you need to get ahead?
You’ll have an easier time achieving your goals if you focus on them in your mind. Identify what you need to do to discover a successful flutist’s career path.
Think about this: How would you build a house without construction plans? It won’t work, you’ll never get your dream house built, and you’ll end up disappointed. Your post-grad flutist goals will remain unfulfilled until you can clearly see where you want to take your career.
Recognize your progress and be proud of it.
It’s easy to become depressed by worrying about tomorrow.
Remember that today was the future just a few short years ago!
Put together a list of everything you’ve done. See? It’s probably more extensive than you thought.
This is an excellent tool for updating your résumé, website, and social media accounts. Be creative about how you can share your achievements with future employers and music industry contacts.
Assess your existing network and establish new connections.
Consider all of the people you know. Include professors as well as peers, band directors, and other members of the music industry. How can they assist you in locating your ideal flute playing job or introducing you to others who can?
What kind of contacts do you need to travel your chosen career path? For example, can you meet other professional flute players virtually or in person? How can you expand your network through virtual or real-world events?
Make notes about the people and possibilities you encounter. You likely know more flutists than you think, and the ones you want to meet are easier to find than you thought.
Use social media to the fullest extent.
Are you making the most of your social media accounts?
Think of ways to get your music out to more people in flutist circles and the music industry through various social media platforms.
If you don’t already have a LinkedIn page, create one. This page should reflect where you are professionally and personally, so potential employers can find it and see what you offer. Because of today’s tight labor market, employers are becoming more aggressive in their recruitment efforts.
In addition to LinkedIn, you can connect with flutists on TikTok, Instagram, and Twitter. It’s one of the most common methods musicians use to find new employees. Promote your flute playing abilities by making and sharing videos and recordings that are all your own.
Cast a wide net.
Opening up your job search can be time-consuming. You can increase your chances of getting hired by applying to a wide range of positions. Apply to many different work environments that allow your flute-playing skills to shine.
Keep an eye on companies and organizations that you find appealing. Set up job search engine alerts, and don’t limit the things you’re willing to try. Send your resume to companies like record labels and publishers. People and the music industry can change anytime, so there are no guarantees. But there’s a chance you’ll meet someone who can put you in touch with someone who can help you on your flutist journey.
Donate your time and expertise.
If you aren’t making loads of cash right away, consider volunteering at a school, senior center, performing arts group, or church. Also, keep an eye out for opportunities to gain work experience and new skills through internships. There’s no way to predict who you will run into or where your performance will take you.
Start your own business.
Having trouble finding a career path suitable for a flutist? Why not go out on your own and make something of yourself?
Think outside the box and offer various services, from teaching the flute to producing or playing to make money. Bring your best ideas to the table! You’d be surprised at how many ways there are to make money on your own. Make sure to get advice from a business-savvy friend or family member. Use an online service to help you find part-time work while protecting your personal information.
Do you want to make some extra money by learning how to fix instruments? Learn how to fix band instruments like the flute, clarinet, and more by enrolling in one of our recommended classes.
Promote your services.
If you want to be a professional flutist, remember that you’re a person first and foremost. However, you’re also a business. Market yourself aggressively if you want to succeed. An employer may reach out to you even in today’s competitive job market. However, if you put yourself out there, your chances of getting hired will be higher. Use everything from a website to social media to posters and flyers to get your name out there.
Take a look at our pointers on how to better market yourself as a musician.
Be kind to yourself.
Finding a job can be a stressful and time-consuming process. Always keep in mind that you’re not alone.
When you need help and support, turn to your friends and family. Don’t try to do it all on your own.
Celebrating any success, from a callback or interview to an offer, is also a good idea. It’s much easier to get through the tough times of job hunting if you focus on the positive things that happen along the way.
July 2022
