As artist managers, we get hundreds of demos a week. Many are good, but very few are "bookable." The difference? Professionalism. If you're an emerging artist trying to land your first serious gigs, great music is just the price of entry. Here's how to stand out.

1. Have Your "Digital Press Kit" Ready Do not just send a Soundcloud link. A promoter or manager needs everything in one place. Your "Digital Press Kit" (EPK) should be a single link (on your own simple website) with:

• Your music (2-3 best songs, no more).
• A short, well-written bio.
• 2-3 high-resolution professional photos (not from your phone).
• Links to your socials.

1. Be a Professional, Even at an Open Mic Be on time. Be polite to the sound engineer. Stick to your allotted time. Thank the booker. You would be astonished how many talented artists fail at these simple steps. A reputation for being reliable and easy to work with will get you more gigs than a great song will.
2. Understand the Booker's Job A promoter's job is not just to book cool music; it's to sell tickets. In your email, don't just say "I'm a great artist." Say "I have a local following of [X] and I will be personally promoting this show to my email list and social channels to help you sell tickets." Show them you are a partner, not just a performer.

Talent gets you noticed. Professionalism gets you booked. Reliability gets you re-booked.