Be respectful of their time. Reach out with a clear and specific question or request, showing that you've done your homework. Keep your message short, polite, and appreciative of any advice they might offer.

I think that in general, our fellow professionals are open to meeting new people and, in my experience, more experienced musicians usually welcome questions and requests for advice. However, to demonstrate that you are worth their time and attention, you need to show that you appreciate their effort: stick to your point, ask an appropriate number of questions, thank them for their time, and offer to help them in return.

I love this approach as it’s how I thrived in this industry. Be brave, swallow your ego, reach out to who you truly admire and TELL them you are actually a fan girl/boy and why! Trust me being nice and kind will get you really far. Remember most people however are always happy to help, but will be busy so please be patient and maybe even offer to take them for a coffee if you’re in the same areas as them.

It is key to first build a relationship and this can happen with the tone at which you kick off the conversation. It is important you don’t ask too many questions at the same time, it is not an interview. Take it one step at a time and understand that asking the right question can lead to getting answers to the other intended questions.