Working on how to get a record deal and how to get signed can be a long rocky road full of twists and turns. One of the struggles you are going to encounter is the interview. Interviews can be stressful and awkward but they can also be successful. There are some simple interview do's and don'ts that you must know and follow in order to score that record deal that you have been striving for.



1. Dress appropriately for the industry. Since you are a musician or part of a band then most likely this is a no-brainer because you already have a style of your own. But keep it professional, nonetheless. Try not to be too conservative because you still want to impress so kick it up a notch.

2. Arrive on time if not 10-15 minutes early. This will show your professionalism and willingness to impress. If you want to know the key to how to get signed, you must realize it is all about impressions.

3. Offer a firm handshake, make eye contact, and have a friendly expression when you are greeted by your interviewer. It sounds obvious but body language is everything. You don't want to appear aloof or disinterested in the offer to be there.

4. Throughout the interview, ask for any type of clarification if you don't understand a question or a statement. Don't fake your way through any interview. And don't feel stupid if you have to ask questions. Record labels can use a lot of jargon that the average musician may not understand so ask away, after all, it is your record deal!

5. Be honest about your expectations. You are working on how to get a record deal and now is your chance. You don't want to seem to eager but you do want to be upfront about everything.

6. If you are part of a group, then come prepared. Discuss before hand anything and everything that may come up during the process. You don't want to catch anyone off guard or worse, start an argument in front of the executives or whoever you are interviewing with.

7. Don't make excuses for anything. If you are asked about something that happened in the past or for example a past gig or album, don't make excuses.

8. Don't appear desperate to know how to get a record deal or how to get signed. But at the same time, you must appear humble. They are evaluating you and/or your band so you don't want to give off the impression you are "too good" either.

9. Don't take unrelated people to the interview. The band members and a manager may go. If there are negotiations being made then your attorney, if you have one may attend. You want to keep the focus where it belongs, on you and your shot at a record deal.

10. Don't underestimate the power of a follow-up call or letter. Keep your band fresh in their head. Shoot them a thank-you email or type a thank-you letter. If you feel it is appropriate then you may make a call to the interviewer to thank them.

Interviews are truly about impressing people. Knowing how to get signed includes learning how to conduct yourself in an interview. Follow the above simple do's and don'ts of how to behave in an interview and you should do great. If you want a record deal then you have to be prepared at all times for situations just like these.