BUILDING REAL COMMUNITY IN MUSIC

Think about the people you’ve met in the industry who’ve really made an impression on you.

Were they the ones talking about themselves non-stop?

Or the ones who asked about you, listened, and remembered what you said?

We all want to feel seen and heard, and the best way to create that for others is to offer it first.

Last week, I was at a music conference in LA, and it struck me how many people still open conversations with, “So, what do you do?”. Ugh! For me, it immediately puts things in a transactional space, rather than a connection one.

I also noticed how many people weren’t really listening to me; just waiting for me to pause so they could jump in and talk about their own thing.

In music, where so much depends on relationships, genuine connection can be hard to find. But trust me, people you meet will always remember how you made them feel.

I often hear from women in music that they want to feel more confident in how they build and manage relationships at work. To be trusted, respected, and taken seriously as leaders.

This starts with small, human moments of curiosity and care.

Whilst I reflect on my last day in LA, here’s what I’ve learned along the way:

Ask and be curious.

Have real conversations. Ask about what’s lighting them up right now. Skip the small talk and focus on getting to know them.

I still remember a colleague at EMI who I didn’t have much work crossover with, but every time we saw each other, he’d ask how I was and genuinely cared. Not just about work, but about me and my life outside of it too. That kind of kindness always stuck with me, and years later, we still stay in touch from time to time.

Listen, I mean really listen

When they share something, reflect it back. Try, “I think what you’re saying is…” It shows you’re paying attention and that you get them.

Remember the details

After you chat, jot down a few notes. What they’re working on, what matters to them. Next time, mention it: “Last time we spoke, you said…” That one line builds instant trust.

Say thank you

It doesn’t have to be a big thing. A quick “I really appreciated your time” goes a long way.

Be honest about your intent

If you want to build a real connection, say it out loud. Letting someone know you’d like to keep the conversation going invites trust.

Keep it going

Follow up, stay curious, and keep the conversation alive. If they felt seen in your first chat, they’ll want to talk again.

If you’ve been craving more meaningful connections in your work, this is exactly the kind of thing we can explore together in coaching.

You can book a quick 20-minute chat here.

One last thing before you go; my coaching prices will rise on 1st January.

If you’d like to start 2026 with clarity and momentum, you can book now and begin in January at the current rate.

Here’s your chance to lock in 2025 rates:

The Support — $1,399 (3 months)

The Headliner — $2,499 (6 months)

From 1st January, The Support will increase to $1,995 and The Headliner to $3,995.

This change reflects the depth of transformation, time, and energy that go into my work with clients, and the incredible results they achieve.

Always in your corner,

Sarah