Hiring/Training a Manager
Howdy folks! I just started working on some solo music work, along with playing in a couple of bands on the side. I'm still working full time and going to school for my MBA. I feel like I'm busier than ever but I'm putting more time into the the Socials/booking/and general admin of trying to do music professionally. Now I know that I don't have to make music a big event and do all of these things, but money is tight, I love performing, and to make it reasonable to put more time into this thing I love, I need to make a little money off of it. I also love my current job that is keeping the lights on.
With my MBA classes and doing research into what successful bands and acts are doing, I have a pretty good idea of what I need to do to hit my goals with music and performance. The problem is I do not have the time to execute my marketing and production plans.
I was wondering what people's experiences with hiring a manager is to handle the admin, socials and booking? I understand that finding a manager is hard, and successful ones won't want to work with you if you are just doing small-time stuff, but I would be interested to see what people have experienced. Did the manager help? Did it offload enough work so you could focus on your art? Bad experiences? Things to watch out for
On the other end, has anyone ever trained a manager? I feel like coming at this with a "business owner" mindset might be the right move. Where I would find someone competent with a small amount of experience and just give them the tasks to execute. I can show them how I want stuff done and let them bring new ideas to the table? This might sound a bit odd, but has anyone tried this?
I know that this somewhat capitalistic mindset and un-artistic approach to music might put people off, but this is all so I can focus on what I'm passionate about. Making music and performing it well. I just don't have time to do the admin to accomplish those goals.
Posted Aug 13, 2026, 4:06 PM UTC