Beyond the traditional recording industry jobs, there are new opportunities each day, from newly emerging distribution channels to the explosion of digital content development (such as ring tones). Here are some tips and techniques to assist the process of preparing your resume; think of it as “pre-production” for your career path.

Don't lie on your resume. Be real about who you are and the work you do. To quote producer Rick Rubin, “Be the type of person that others want to open doors for.” Each time you apply for a new position, compile your most up-to-date personal and technical skill sets and distill your essence into a resume form. Save your enthusiasm for the personal interview.

When an opportunity arises, research everything you can about the artist, band or company before walking in the door to meet them. Understand a company's “culture.” Know what they offer clients and the industry niche they service.

Avoid expressing too many career aspirations in early encounters with possible employers. Whichever job you take, focus on the value you'll bring to the project or the company — don't constantly talk about becoming the hottest producer on the planet.

Networking is not solely about the quantity of people you meet, but about developing quality relationships. The nature of your compassion can be equally demonstrated outside a professional relationship by asking about someone's family, how they're doing, et cetera. Remembering someone's coffee preferences and presenting a cup to them before being asked once made me $26,000.

Be optimistic. No one wants to work with a bore or complainer. Smile. Keep negative opinions of others to yourself. You're not going to get along with everyone, but understand that it's a small, small world and demeaning commentary is hardly professional.

In reference to the above, never send out angry e-mails late at night. It takes approximately 23 seconds for that e-mail to be forwarded to the next 50 people who could have hired you. If there is a real concern, deal with the problem professionally and in person in a private environment.

No one likes to talk about money, but it is the first order of business. I started a practice of billing clients and updating their tab every day. With that consistency, everyone knows where the money is being spent and how fast. Because the subject is always out in the open, issues that come up can be dealt that same day while the facts are still fresh in everyone's memory.

The most important client you have is the one you're currently working with. A happy client's word-of-mouth support may be worth more than that of the rich client you've been salivating over for months.

Also, it may be time to trade-in your old “koolkid17@hotmail” for the more professional “you@yourcompany.com.” Apply the same graphic design elements to your Website, business cards and demo reel.

After sending the resume and cover letter, follow up in person. If you really want a job that's way out of town, you must be willing to risk airfare and hotel accommodations — even for an entry-level position.