Author: Carly Phillips

Born between 1997 and 2012, Gen Z is now entering the workplace in significant numbers, bringing with them unique characteristics, expectations, and skills. As an employer, adapting your management style to accommodate this new generation can lead to increased productivity, innovation, and employee satisfaction.

What is Gen Z?

Generation Z, often called Gen Z or Zoomers, includes individuals aged 12 to 27. Growing up in a digital age has shaped their views on work, communication, and career development.

Gen Z Characteristics in the Workplace

Understanding the key traits of Gen Z employees is essential for effective management:

• Digital natives: having grown up with technology, Gen Z is comfortable with digital tools and platforms.
• Value-driven: this generation seeks employers whose values align with their own, prioritising social responsibility.
• Entrepreneurial mindset: many Gen Z employees desire autonomy and the chance to contribute innovative ideas.
  
• Diversity and inclusion: they value workplaces that embrace diversity and champion inclusivity.
• Work-life balance: maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal life is crucial for this generation.

Strategies for managing Gen Z employees

To lead and engage Gen Z in the workplace, businesses should consider implementing these strategies:

1) Embrace a non-hierarchical structure

Gen Z appreciates collaborative environments where their ideas are valued regardless of their position. Businesses are encouraged to develop a culture that promotes open communication and equal participation among team members.

2) Prioritise work-life balance

In the post-pandemic world, businesses should recognise the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. By offering flexible work arrangements and respecting employees personal time promotes higher job satisfaction and productivity.

3) Focus on mental health

Gen Z places a high value on mental well-being. Now more than ever, businesses should implement programmes and policies supporting mental health in the workplace, such as stress management workshops or access to counselling services.

4) Provide continuous learning opportunities

Gen Z employees are eager to expand their knowledge and skills. Employers should offer regular training sessions, workshops, and opportunities for professional development to keep them engaged and motivated.

5) Offer clear career progression paths

Gen Z employees know what they want out of a job due to being a lot clearer on their prospects and goals. From the get go, employers should outline clear pathways for career advancement within the organisation. Gen Z employees value transparency in understanding how they can grow and progress.

6) Adopt a personalised approach

Take the time to understand each Gen Z employee’s individual strengths, preferences, and goals. Tailor your management style and assignments to their unique needs and aspirations.

7) Communicate clearly and frequently

Gen Z appreciates honest and open communication. Set clear expectations, provide regular feedback, and maintain transparency about company goals and challenges.

8) Leverage technology

Incorporate modern tech and digital tools in your workplace processes. Gen Z employees thrive in tech-savvy environments and can often introduce innovative solutions.

9) Create a sense of purpose

Help Gen Z employees understand how their work contributes to the larger organisational goals and societal impact. This generation values meaningful work that makes a difference.

10) Embrace diversity and inclusion

Create a workplace culture that celebrates diversity and promotes inclusivity. Gen Z expects employers to take active steps in addressing social and environmental issues.

Consider hiring Gen Z apprentices 

Hiring Gen Z apprentices can be an excellent way to infuse a new way of working in your business. These young professionals offer fresh perspectives and a strong desire to learn, making them ideal candidates for apprenticeships.

Managing Gen Z employees effectively requires a shift in traditional workplace practices. By embracing the unique characteristics of this generation and adapting your management style, you can create a work environment that attracts, retains, and nurtures talent.

Why hiring Gen Z apprentices can benefit your business 

Not only do Gen Z emulate adaptability, creativity, and technological prowess,  they bring a refreshing approach to the workplace. Apprenticeships not only offer a structured pathway to gain hands-on experience but also allow employers to nurture emerging talent aligned with their organisational goals. 

By investing in apprenticeship training, your business can access a cost-effective way to build a skilled workforce while reaping the rewards, such as loyalty and engagement. Through apprenticeship programmes, you can provide the kind of continuous learning and career progression that Gen Z highly values. This structured development not only keeps apprentices engaged but also offers them practical, industry-specific skills that modern workplaces demand. 

Employing apprentices demonstrates a commitment to professional development, a quality that resonates with Gen Z’s desire for growth, purpose, and impact.

Are you ready to tap into the potential of Gen Z talent?

Get in touch with the Access Industry team to learn more about our apprenticeships and how they can benefit your business.

The End Point Assessment (EPA) is a key milestone for apprenticeships. Whether you’re an employer, training provider, or an apprentice, understanding the EPA is key to navigating the apprenticeship journey successfully. Let’s look into what an EPA is, why it matters, and how to prepare for it effectively.

Understanding End Point Assessment

An End Point Assessment (EPA) is the final evaluation that apprentices must pass to complete their apprenticeship. It’s designed to comprehensively assess the knowledge, skills, and behaviours that apprentices have developed throughout their training period.

Some Key characteristics of the EPA include:

• The assessment is conducted by a separate organisation, not the employer or training provider. This ensures impartiality and maintains high standards across the industry.
• Rather than focusing on individual components, the EPA assesses the apprentice’s overall competence in their role.
• The assessment ensures that the apprentice meets the standards set by employers in their sector.

The EPA Process

The EPA process typically involves several assessment methods, carefully chosen to evaluate the specific requirements of each apprenticeship standard. These methods may include:

• Practical Observations: Assessors watch apprentices perform tasks in their work environment.
• Professional Discussions: A structured conversation between the assessor and apprentice, exploring knowledge and understanding.
• Written Exams: Tests that evaluate theoretical knowledge and problem-solving skills.
• Portfolio Reviews: Assessment of evidence collected throughout the apprenticeship.
• Presentations: Apprentices may be required to present on a specific topic or project.
• Interviews: In-depth discussions about the apprentice’s work and learning.

The combination of these methods varies depending on the apprenticeship standard, ensuring the assessment is tailored to the specific role and industry.

Key Players in the EPA

Understanding who is involved in the process can help to ensure apprentices feel at ease and comfortable whilst going through this process.

• The Apprentice: The individual undertaking the apprenticeship and EPA. They are responsible for preparing for and completing the assessment.
• The Employer: Supports the apprentice throughout their journey and decides when they’re ready for EPA. 
• The Training Provider: Prepares the apprentice for their EPA through structured learning and development activities.
• The End Point Assessment Organisation (EPAO): An independent body approved by the government to conduct EPAs. They ensure the assessment is fair, consistent, and meets the required standards.
• The End Point Assessor: The individual who carries out the assessment. They are experts in the relevant field and are trained to conduct fair and thorough assessments.

Preparing for EPA Success

Effective preparation is key to EPA success. Here are some detailed tips for apprentices, employers, and training providers:

1) Familiarise yourself with the assessment plan

• Understand what will be assessed and how
• Review the grading criteria
• Know the timeline and logistics of the assessment

2) Practice, practice, practice

• Use mock assessments to build confidence
• Simulate real assessment conditions
• Get feedback and work on areas for improvement

3) Gather evidence

• Compile a portfolio showcasing skills and knowledge
• Ensure evidence is varied and covers all required standards
• Keep the portfolio organised and easy to navigate

4) Stay in communication

• Regular check-ins between apprentice, employer, and training provider
• Track progress against the apprenticeship standard
• Address any concerns or gaps in knowledge promptly

5) Focus on the bigger picture

• Understand how individual skills fit into the overall role
• Be prepared to discuss the context and importance of your work
• Reflect on your journey and personal growth throughout the apprenticeship

6) Manage stress and wellbeing

• Develop good study habits and time management skills
• Practice relaxation techniques for managing assessment day nerves
• Ensure a good work-life balance during preparation

The Importance of EPA in the Apprenticeship Journey

The EPA is more than just a final hurdle; it’s a valuable part of the apprenticeship journey:

• It provides a clear endpoint, motivating apprentices throughout their training
• It ensures national standards are met, maintaining the quality and reputation of apprenticeships
• It gives employers confidence in the skills and knowledge of their apprentices
• It provides apprentices with a recognised qualification, boosting their career prospects

While the EPA may seem daunting, with proper preparation and support, apprentices can approach it with confidence.

For employers and training providers, understanding the EPA process is key to supporting apprentices effectively. By working together and focusing on thorough preparation, we can ensure that apprentices are ready to shine when it’s time for their EPA.

Remember, the EPA isn’t just a test – it’s a chance to prove competence and readiness for a successful career in your chosen field!

Whether you’re an apprentice preparing for your EPA, an employer supporting your apprentices, or a training provider guiding learners through their journey, embrace the EPA as a valuable part of the apprenticeship experience. With the right approach, it can be a rewarding and affirming process for all involved.

Good luck to all those preparing for their EPA – your hard work and dedication will pay off!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does an End Point Assessment take?

The duration of an EPA can vary significantly depending on the apprenticeship standard and the assessment methods used. Some EPAs might be completed in a single day, while others could be spread over several weeks or even months.

For example:

It’s important to note that the EPA period doesn’t just include the assessment days themselves, but also the time needed for preparation and, if necessary, for results to be verified and certificates to be issued.

Who pays for an End Point Assessment?

The cost of the initial EPA is typically included in the overall apprenticeship funding. The payment structure depends on whether the employer is a levy-payer or not:

• For levy-paying employers (those with an annual pay bill over £3 million), the cost comes from their apprenticeship levy funds.
• For non-levy paying employers, it’s covered by government funding and their co-investment (usually 5% of the total apprenticeship cost).

It’s worth noting that while the initial EPA is covered, any resits or retakes usually need to be paid for by the employer.

What happens if an apprentice fails an EPA?

If an apprentice doesn’t pass their EPA on the first attempt, they have options:

• Resit: This involves redoing one or more failed components without further training. It’s suitable for apprentices who narrowly missed passing and just need another chance to demonstrate their skills.
• Retake: This includes additional training before reassessment. It’s appropriate for apprentices who need to develop their skills or knowledge before attempting the EPA again.

The number of resits or retakes allowed can vary depending on the apprenticeship standard. It’s important to note that the employer usually bears the cost of resits or retakes.

In 2024, the world of filmmaking continues to evolve, bringing exciting new techniques and revitalising classic methods. Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker or a seasoned pro, staying up-to-date with the latest film techniques is crucial for creating compelling visual stories. 

Let’s take a look at the most effective and innovative film techniques of 2024, covering everything from point-of-view (POV) filming to cinematic approaches that are shaping the industry.

Point of View (POV) Filming: Immersing the Audience

One of the most engaging film techniques gaining traction in 2024 is point-of-view (POV) filming. You will have most likely seen this technique used many times from content creators across social media apps to TV and film scenes. This approach puts the audience directly in the shoes of the character, creating a uniquely personal viewing experience.

The POV filming technique involves mounting the camera on the actor or using handheld devices to capture the scene from the character’s perspective. This method has become increasingly popular in action sequences, horror films, and even documentaries, offering viewers a first-hand experience of the narrative.

Key aspects of effective POV filming include:

• Stable camera work: Using gimbals or stabilisers to reduce shakiness
• Natural movement: Mimicking realistic head and eye movements
• Selective focus: Emphasising important elements in the frame
• Sound design: Incorporating diegetic sounds to enhance immersion

POV filming can be particularly effective when combined with other cinematic filming techniques, creating a dynamic and engaging visual experience.

Cinematic Filming Techniques: Elevating Your Visual Storytelling

Beyond POV, many cinematic filming techniques can elevate your film work.

Here are some of the most impactful approaches being used in 2024:

• Drone Cinematography: With advancements in drone technology, aerial shots have become more accessible and sophisticated. Filmmakers are using drones to capture landscapes, dynamic action sequences, and unique perspectives that were once only possible with expensive helicopter shots.
• Virtual Production: The use of LED walls and real-time rendering engines is revolutionising filmmaking. This technique allows for the creation of realistic backgrounds and environments in-camera, reducing the need for extensive post-production work. The Mandalorian TV series is a prime example of using LED walls for creating realistic environments.
• Anamorphic Lenses: These lenses create a distinctive, widescreen look with unique flares and bokeh, adding a cinematic quality to your footage. Many filmmakers have successfully used anamorphic lenses to enhance their storytelling. For example, in La La Land, original Cinemascope lenses from the ’50s were used to evoke the nostalgic feel of musicals from that decade.
• Handheld Camera Work: While not new, handheld techniques continue to evolve, offering a raw, intimate feel to scenes when used effectively.
• Long Takes: Single-shot sequences that last for extended periods are becoming increasingly popular, showcasing technical prowess and immersing viewers in the action.

Different Types of Movie Shots: Building Your Visual Vocabulary

Understanding and utilising various types of movie shots is fundamental to effective filmmaking. Here are some essential shot types that continue to be relevant in 2024:

• Extreme Close-Up: Focusing on a small detail, often used for emotional impact or to highlight important objects.
• Medium Shot: Framing characters from the waist up, ideal for dialogue scenes and character interactions.
• Wide Shot: Showing the full scene, including characters and their surroundings, to establish context.
• Dutch Angle: Tilting the camera to create a sense of unease or disorientation.
• Tracking Shot: Moving the camera alongside the subject, often used to follow action or reveal information.
• Dolly Zoom: Simultaneously zooming in while moving the camera backwards (or vice versa), creating a disorienting effect.
• Aerial Shot: Capturing scenes from above, providing a broad perspective or emphasising scale.

Mastering these different types of movie shots allows filmmakers to create a variety of visuals and show specific emotions or ideas through the shot choices.

Movie Filming Techniques: Bringing It All Together

Successful filmmaking in 2024 often involves combining various techniques to create a unique visual style. Some approaches to consider include:

• Mixing Formats: Combining different camera types (e.g., digital, film, smartphone) for artistic effect.
• Creative Colour Grading: Using advanced colour correction tools to enhance mood and atmosphere.
• Dynamic Editing: Employing techniques like jump cuts, match cuts, and rhythmic editing to create energy and flow.
• Practical Effects: Balancing CGI with in-camera effects for a more authentic feel.
• Innovative Sound Design: Utilising spatial audio and immersive sound techniques to enhance the viewing experience.

Courses for Filming: Developing Your Skills at Access Creative College

If you want to start a career in film making,  hands-on experience is essential. At Access Creative College we offer industry-led courses designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the film industry.

Level 2 – Video, Photography and Design

Our Level 2 course is ideal for anybody wanting to start at the beginning of their filmmaking with no prior experience. The course provides an understanding of various aspects of media production, including:

• Photography fundamentals
• Video production techniques
• Graphic design principles
• Essential technical skills for media industries
• Collaboration and project management
• Proficiency in industry-standard software like Adobe Creative Cloud
• Academic development in mathematics and English

This course serves as an excellent introduction to the world of media production, preparing you for more advanced studies.

Level 3 – Film, Videography and Photography

For those looking to progress and specialise in filmmaking, the Level 3 course offers in-depth training in:

• Advanced camera techniques
• Composition and lighting
• Image manipulation and editing
• Pre-production planning
• Sound engineering
• Film and video editing
• Work experience opportunities with industry professionals
• Personal brand development
• Portfolio creation and career guidance

Ready to start your filmmaking career? Apply now for Access Creative College’s Video, Photography and Design or Film, Videography and Photography courses for our September intake.

The demand for captivating visual content continues to soar across various platforms. From online advertisements to social media campaigns, videos have become a powerful tool for communication and storytelling. But behind every video lies the expertise of a skilled professional – the videographer. 

Let’s explore the exciting world of videography, the career opportunities available, and how you can kickstart your journey in this growing field.

What is a Videographer?

At its core, a videographer is a creative professional responsible for capturing moving images and creating videos for various purposes. Whether it’s shooting weddings, events, documentaries, music videos, or corporate promotions, videographers use their technical skills and artistic vision to bring stories to life through the lens of a camera.

Videographer Career Opportunities

The world of videography offers a diverse range of career opportunities, catering to different interests and specialities. Here are some popular paths you can explore as a videographer:

• Freelance Videographer: Many videographers work independently, offering their services to clients on a project-by-project basis. This flexibility allows freelancers to work on various projects and collaborate with different individuals and organisations.
• In-house Videographer: Some companies and organisations have in-house videographers to handle their video production needs. In this role, you may work on internal training videos, promotional content, or documenting company events.
• Wedding Videographer: Capturing one of the most important days in a couple’s life requires skill, creativity, and attention to detail. Wedding videographers specialise in filming ceremonies, receptions, and love stories, creating lasting memories for their clients.
• Documentary Filmmaker: If you’re passionate about storytelling and social issues, a career in documentary filmmaking might be the perfect fit. Documentary filmmakers research, shoot, and edit films that explore real-life events, people, and cultures.
• Content Creator: Many businesses and freelancers rely on video content to promote their products or services typically via social media. Short-form content creation is quickly becoming a highly sought-after role and opens doors to work with well-known brands and influencers.  

How to Become a Videographer

Becoming a successful videographer requires a combination of technical skills, creativity, and practical experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to pursue a career in videography:

• Gain Technical Knowledge: Start by familiarising yourself with the fundamentals of videography, including camera operation, composition, lighting, and audio recording. You can learn these skills through videography courses, which is something ACC offers at Level 2 and Level 3
• Invest in Quality Equipment: To begin with, you don’t need the latest and most expensive gear to get started. However, having reliable equipment is essential for producing high-quality videos. Invest in a good camera, lenses, tripod, microphone, and editing software to enhance your capabilities as a videographer.
• Build a Portfolio: As you gain experience, start building a portfolio showcasing your best work. Your portfolio is your visual resume and demonstrates your skills, style, and creativity to potential clients or employers. Your portfolio could be created through a social media platform, such as Instagram or TikTok, or a microsite.
• Network and Collaborate: Networking is key to finding opportunities and growing your career as a videographer. Attend industry events, join online communities, and collaborate with other professionals to expand your network and gain exposure.
• Stay Updated: The field of videography is constantly evolving, with new technologies, trends, and techniques emerging regularly. Stay updated with the latest developments in the industry and continue to refine your skills through continuous learning and experimentation.

Is a Videographer the Same as a Filmmaker?

Videographers and filmmakers both work with moving images but there are some differences between the two roles.

A videographer typically focuses on capturing real-life events or creating videos for commercial purposes, such as weddings, events, and marketing projects. They often work solo or with small crews and prioritise efficiency and practicality in their approach to filming.

On the other hand, a filmmaker is often involved in the entire creative process of filmmaking, from concept development and scriptwriting to directing, shooting, and editing. Filmmakers may work on narrative films, documentaries, or experimental projects, and they tend to have a more artistic and storytelling-oriented approach to their work.

What is the Difference Between a Cameraman and a Videographer?

While the terms “cameraman” and “videographer” are sometimes used interchangeably, there are subtle differences between the two roles.

A cameraman, or camera operator, is primarily responsible for operating the camera during a shoot. They focus on framing shots, adjusting camera settings, and ensuring smooth camera movements to capture the desired footage. Cameramen often work under the direction of a director or cinematographer and may specialise in specific types of camera work, such as handheld or Steadicam operation.

On the other hand, a videographer is a broader term that encompasses not only camera operation but also the entire process of video production, including planning, shooting, and editing. While a videographer may also operate the camera, they are typically involved in all aspects of video production, from ideation, and planning to final delivery.

Average Salary for a Videographer

The salary of a videographer can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, industry, and specialisation.

According to data from SalaryExplorer, a person working as a videographer in the United Kingdom typically earns around £61,900 per year. However, salaries can range from £28,500 (lowest) to £98,400 (highest) for top earners in the field.

Learn Videography at ACC

A career in videography offers endless possibilities for creativity, storytelling, and professional growth. Whether you dream of capturing breathtaking landscapes, documenting real-life events, or producing compelling marketing videos, videography allows you to bring your vision to life on screen. With the right skills, dedication, and passion, you can carve out a successful and fulfilling career in this exciting field.

If you’re ready to start your journey into videography, check out our media courses and get your application submitted for September!

In today’s music industry, getting your music featured on playlists and blogs can be a game-changer for artists looking to gain exposure and build a dedicated fan base.

With the rise of streaming platforms and the ever-growing influence of social media, these channels have become powerful tools for music discovery and promotion. But where do you even get started? Let’s explore strategies to help you get your music playlisted and featured on influential blogs, amplifying your reach and connecting with new audiences.

How to get on Spotify playlists

Additionally, engaging with Spotify’s playlist curators and pitching your music directly to them can be an effective strategy. Many curators are open to submissions and actively seek out new and exciting artists to feature on their playlists. Here are some ways to get noticed and featured on Spotify playlists:

• Use SubmitHub or PlaylistPush: These platforms connect artists with playlist curators who are actively seeking new music. You can submit your tracks and pay a fee for consideration.
• Reach out to independent curators: Identify popular independent playlists in your genre and reach out to the curators directly, pitching your music and explaining why it would be a good fit for their playlist.
• Leverage social media: Follow and engage with playlist curators on social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram. Share your music, interact with their content, and build relationships.
• Offer exclusive content: Offer playlist curators exclusive content, such as behind-the-scenes footage, unreleased tracks, or early access to new music, to incentivise them to feature your music.
• Network and collaborate: Attend industry events, conferences, and showcases to network with playlist curators, influencers, and other industry professionals who can help get your music featured on playlists.
• Optimise your metadata: Make sure your song titles, artist name, album artwork, and descriptions are compelling and accurately represent your music. Use relevant keywords and genres to increase discoverability.
• Submit to Spotify’s editorial playlists: Spotify has a team of curators who create official playlists. You can submit your music for consideration through their artist portal or by reaching out to the curators directly.
• Leverage Spotify for Artists: This platform provides valuable insights into your audience, including which playlists your music is being added to. Use this data to identify relevant playlists and curators to target.
• Collaborate with other artists: If you’re featured on another artist’s track, their fans may discover your music and add it to their playlists, increasing your visibility.
• Engage with your fans: Encourage your fans to add your songs to their personal playlists and share them with their friends, which can lead to more exposure and potential playlist placements.

Leverage SoundCloud for Playlist Exposure

SoundCloud is a popular platform for independent artists and has a thriving community of curators. By actively engaging with this community and submitting your music to relevant playlists, you can increase your chances of being featured and reaching new listeners. 

SoundCloud has an extensive network of playlists so it’s important to search for those that align with your genre and style. Reach out to playlist curators, share your music, and express your interest in being featured. Building relationships with these curators can lead to valuable exposure and potential collaborations. Remember, it’s all about making those connections, so it’s important to craft a message that appears authentic and friendly – some may be ignored, but even if one or two messages land with a response, you’re on to a great start!

Utilise Music Distribution Services

Platforms like DistroKid, Ditto, and AWAL offer music distribution services that can help you get your music on major streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. These services often have partnerships with playlist curators and can increase your chances of being featured on popular playlists.

DistroKid, for example, has a feature called “Playlists” that allows you to submit your music for consideration on curated playlists across various streaming platforms. Ditto and AWAL also offer similar services, providing opportunities for your music to be discovered by new audiences.

Promote Your Music on Social Media

Social media platforms have become powerful tools for music promotion and fan engagement. By building a strong presence on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter, you can increase your visibility and connect with potential fans and influencers.

Check out our blog posts on How to Promote Your Music on TikTok in 2024 and Building an Audience Using Social Media for valuable insights and strategies to effectively promote your music and grow your online following.

Engage with Music Blogs and Influencers

Music blogs and influencers play a crucial role in shaping the music industry and influencing trends. By building relationships and providing them with high-quality content, you can increase your chances of being featured on their platforms.

Identify influential blogs and influencers within your genre and reach out to them with personalised pitches. Share your music, press releases, and any noteworthy achievements or collaborations. Engaging with their content and fostering genuine connections can go a long way in gaining valuable exposure and support.

At Access Creative College, we understand the importance of equipping aspiring musicians and artists with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the ever-evolving music industry. Our Artist Development course provides comprehensive training in areas such as personal branding, showmanship and marketing strategies.

Our industry-experienced tutors and state-of-the-art facilities will provide you with the tools and guidance you need to navigate the complexities of the music industry and achieve your artistic goals.

If you’re an ambitious musician or artist looking to take your career to new heights, we’re taking on new musicians for the AD4 programme in September, so if that’s you get your application in pronto!

There’s no doubt that promoting your own music as an independent artist is hard, but with the right strategy in place there are plenty of tools out there designed to help you become successful. If you’re struggling to reach a wider audience, don’t be discouraged, here are some ways to get your music out there.

What is the best way to promote my music as an independent artist?

When it comes to promoting music, social media is your best friend! Platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook are a great way to connect with people by sharing updates, sneak peeks of your new music and even some exclusive behind the scenes content. It’s important to engage with your audience so they feel more connected to you and appreciated.

Similarly, encouraging people to follow you on streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and SoundCloud is a good way to boost your audience and gain more listeners. You can utilise these platforms by running promotions and giveaways which will incentivise your audience to engage with your music and hopefully share it with others.

Performing at local venues, open mics, and music festivals is not only a good way to showcase your talent, it also gives you the chance to network with industry professionals and like-minded people. Attending music industry events will help you build relationships with experts and other artists, opening doors to new opportunities and future collaborations.

How do I advertise my music?

As mentioned above, the best way to advertise your music is through social media. Most platforms offer targeting options based on demographics, interests, and behaviours, allowing you to reach more people who are likely to be interested in your music. 

You could also consider running YouTube and streaming platform ads. These platforms offer various ad formats, including pre-roll ads, display ads, and sponsored videos, which are all designed to help you reach a wider audience and drive streams. Collaborating with other artists on these platforms is a good way to gain exposure and reach a wider audience. 

Reach out to music blogs, online magazines, and websites to see if they offer any advertising opportunities. Many music websites offer banner ads, sponsored content, and featured placements, all of which will help you to reach a targeted audience. Check out what local advertising opportunities are available to you, this could be radio stations, magazines, or community websites.

Try marketing techniques, such as email campaigns. Start by building a mailing list of subscribers and use email marketing to promote your music releases, upcoming shows, and exclusive content. You could also create a newsletter aimed at building a community and boosting your visibility, indie music is usually shared and discovered by word of mouth and through smaller communities. Personalised and targeted email campaigns are highly effective strategies for helping your audience feel engaged. 

It’s also important to track and analyse your results by monitoring key metrics such as engagement, clicks, and conversions to optimise your advertising strategy.

What is the best way to market my music?

First, you will need to define your brand by having a clear identity and image reflecting your music, personality, and values. Doing simple things like keeping a cohesive colour palette, style and tone of voice across your platforms, and having a uniform profile picture will create a consistent experience for your audience and more importantly, will make you easily identifiable.

Next, create high-quality content to showcase your talent. Investing in your equipment to create professional music, music videos, and visuals for social media will help you to stand out and attract new listeners.

Focus on building an online presence by using social media platforms, developing a professional website, and utilising music streaming platforms. As well as regularly posting updates, sharing behind the scenes content, and interacting with your audience to keep them engaged. 

Try releasing your music strategically by planning in advance to maximise visibility and impact. Consider releasing singles, EPs, or albums at regular intervals and promote them across your social media channels and streaming platforms. For example, aim to post on TikTok 6-10 times per week (while you get started, then go down to 3-6), while on Instagram aim for 1-3 times per week.

Pitch your music to blogs, online magazines, radio stations, and podcasts to increase press coverage and features. You could even send out press releases, press kits, and promotional materials to generate a buzz around your music. 

And lastly, be consistent!

How can I use social media to promote my music?

Choosing the right platforms for your target audience and sharing engaging content is key. Remember to use relevant hashtags to increase visibility and reach a wider audience. Optimise your profile by using high-quality content and make sure that your profiles clearly and consistently communicate who you are and what kind of music you make. 

Make the most of websites such Buffer, Canva, and Later which are great tools for advertising your music. They can do anything from scheduling posts to analysing performance metrics.

Run contests and giveaways to increase engagement and reward your listeners. Offer prizes such as exclusive merch and tickets to get more people involved. Another technique is to encourage your audience to create and share their own content related to your music, such as covers, dance videos, and art. Reposting and sharing this content will show your appreciation and create a sense of community. 

Check out this blog for a deep dive into mastering music promotion on social media. 

Are there any music promotion courses?

There are plenty of online platforms, such as Coursera and Udemy, which offer courses on music promotion. Doing courses like these will give you a diverse skill set and you could even potentially meet artists to collaborate with.

Many colleges and universities also offer music promotion courses. These courses typically cover topics such as marketing strategies, social media promotion, event planning, and artist management within the music industry. 

Are there any music artist courses?

And here’s where Access Creative College comes in! We offer a wide range of music courses at different levels, meaning you can jump in at right the right skill level for you. 

• Why not check out our Level 2 Music Performance and Vocal Artist course. This is the perfect introduction to the music industry and teaches the fundamental skills needed to become a confident and creative musician. 
• We also offer a Level 3 Vocal Artist course, here you will refine your vocal skills and gain invaluable stage experience. 
• Or you could join our Level 4 Artist Development course to grow as an artist by considering your overall brand, strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. 

Whatever level you’re at, we have courses for you! ACC is the perfect place to get started in the music industry by gaining invaluable experience and skills to become a successful artist. 

And remember, it takes persistence and consistency, be patient and remember to enjoy the process!

If you want to study music at college, apply online and kickstart your career with ACC!