When Is the Right Time to Get a Manager or Booking Agent — music artist

The Manager/Artist Relationship

It’s crucial to understand that a manager works with you, not for you. You’re still the boss, and no one will care about your career more than you do. While a good manager can help organize, strategize, and connect, you need to maintain control of your vision and direction.

Some key points about the relationship:

• Be prepared to pay your manager. Whether it’s a salary, hourly fee, or percentage of your revenue, their time and expertise come at a cost.
• Understand they likely manage other clients. A manager’s time is divided, so make sure they’re the right fit and can dedicate adequate focus to your career.
• You set the tone. The best managers are facilitators, not miracle workers. They execute your plans and ideas, but the drive and leadership come from you.