Deciding whether to hire a manager or stay independent is a major crossroads for any artist. A manager can offer professional guidance, organization, and connections, but staying independent gives you full control, with added responsibilities. The wrong manager can hold you back, so understanding when to make the switch is critical.Truthfully, whether you have a manager or not in today’s market, you’ll have to work just as hard. However, two brains are better than one, so having a manager could give you a leg up! If you're undiscovered, you’ll need to grind hard to keep your manager motivated, since they likely won’t make money off of you at first.
Ask Yourself Key Questions First
Before approaching a manager, ask yourself:
Why would a manager invest in you? Do you have a product they want to work with? How would the partnership benefit them?
Why do you want this person to manage you? Do they have solid business ethics, experience, and past/current proof of success? Are your visions aligned?
Will they allow you to grow without them? If you grow and become successful, and there are opportunities to work with labels or bigger managers who can take you to the next level, will they allow that or negotiate a separate position for themselves? What would the terms look like?
These are essential questions to answer before meeting with a potential manager.
The Case for Hiring a Manager
Professional Expertise and Experience
A manager brings industry experience, guiding you on strategy, operations, and navigating career complexities. They have established networks, which can open doors to collaborations, gigs, sponsorships, and other opportunities. If you're struggling to get noticed, their connections can push you forward. They also know the ins and outs of contracts and negotiations, something you might not have the expertise in if you’re just starting out. Be mindful, though, if friends or family are acting as managers; they might not have this knowledge.
Time and Energy Management
Managing a career requires juggling administration, marketing, finances, and creativity. If you're stretched too thin or overwhelmed, a manager can handle the business side, allowing you to focus on your craft. This helps prevent burnout and ensures you stay productive.
Objectivity and Strategy
A manager provides an objective perspective, helping you make strategic decisions that align with long-term growth. They keep you focused on big-picture goals, even when short-term distractions arise. A good manager helps you avoid making decisions based on impulse or immediate gratification, ensuring you stay on course.
When Should You Hire a Manager?
Your career is growing: If you’re seeing consistent opportunities and need help managing them, a manager can assist with scaling.
You’re overwhelmed: When you’re juggling too many tasks, a manager can handle the business side so you can focus on what you do best.
You need industry connections: If breaking into key networks is challenging, a manager’s relationships can help.
You lack expertise: If business aspects like contracts, finances, and negotiations are holding you back, a manager can provide the expertise you need.
The Case for Staying Independent
Full Control
The biggest advantage of staying independent is control. You make all the decisions, from which projects to take on to when you release new work. If you value creative freedom and autonomy, independence is the way to go.
No Manager Fees
Managers typically take a commission—usually 10-20% of your income. If you're working with a tight budget or want to keep more of your earnings, staying independent lets you keep everything.
Direct Relationships with Clients/Partners
As an independent creator or entrepreneur, you manage all your relationships directly. If something goes wrong with a manager, you’re left to handle the fallout. With independence, you’re in control of negotiations and contracts, which can be beneficial if you prefer a more personal approach.
Flexibility and Adaptability
Independence allows you to pivot quickly. You don’t need approval from a manager before making changes, and you can adapt to opportunities as they arise. If you’re in a fast-moving industry, flexibility is key.
Pros and Cons Summary
Factor | Hiring a Manager | Staying Independent |
Control | Less control over decisions. | Full control over all decisions. |
Fees | Managers take a commission (10-20%). | Keep 100% of your income. |
Expertise | Access to industry experience and connections. | You handle everything on your own. |
Time and Stress | Relieves business burden, allowing focus on work. | More stress managing everything solo. |
Networking | Manager brings established industry connections. | You build your own network. |
Flexibility | Less flexibility in decision-making. | Total flexibility and adaptability. |
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The decision to hire a manager should be based on where you are in your career. Many successful people start independent and later bring on a manager when the time is right. Listen to your needs, trust your instincts, and make the decision that suits your current stage. Your path may change as you grow—what works now might not work later.