PR Blunders You Should Avoid at the Beginning of Your Career
Because talent is powerful, but perception is everything.
Breaking into the music industry is hard enough without your own actions making it harder. At the early stages of your career, every move counts. Every post, tweet, interview, and even no-show is part of your public image—your personal PR. And unlike a bad mix or a flat note, PR mistakes can stick around for a long time.
If you’re serious about turning music into a career, you can’t afford to move recklessly. Here are some of the most common public relations blunders new artists make—and how to avoid them.
1. Treating Social Media Like a Personal Diary
Social media is your digital stage. It’s where fans, promoters, potential collaborators, and even labels get their first impression of you. Activities such as oversharing, emotional rants, messy relationship drama, and petty online arguments do not look good.
Keep your digital presence clean, intentional, and brand-aligned. If it doesn’t build your image or connect with your audience, it probably doesn’t need to be posted.
2. Chasing Clout at All Costs
Trying to force virality through controversy or fake beef might get you some likes, but it won’t get you lasting respect. The industry sees through those tactics, and so do your potential fans.
Focus on creating impact, not noise. You want to be remembered for your music and professionalism, not your internet antics.
3. Being Unprofessional with the Media
Ignoring interview requests, showing up late to press appearances, or giving half-hearted answers? That’s a fast way to burn bridges before you even cross them.
Media exposure builds credibility. Take every opportunity seriously, even if the platform is small. Every blog, podcast, or online show is a step toward the world getting to know you.
4. Responding Poorly to Criticism
Negative feedback is part of the game. But how you handle it shows who you are behind the music. If you keep clapping back at fans, blocking people for honest opinions, or throwing shade online, you look insecure.
Take feedback gracefully. Stay focused on growth. Learn when to respond—and when to let silence speak.
5. Not Thinking Long-Term About Your Brand
Your brand isn’t just your logo or album art. It’s the overall vibe of who you are and what you stand for. If you’re constantly switching styles, posting inconsistently, or giving confusing messages, people will struggle to connect with you.
Start shaping your identity early. Be clear about your values, your sound, and your story.
6. Overpromising and Underdelivering
Breaking trust is easier than building it. Do not announce a release date, a live event, or a major collab without delivering.
Only make promises you can keep. Build a reputation for reliability, not hype.
7. Ignoring Local Relationships
In the rush to “blow” internationally, some new artists forget to build strong ties with their local scene. But your community is your first fanbase, your first source of support, and often your first stepping stone.
Respect DJs, radio hosts, event promoters, and local media. Nurture those relationships from day one.
Intentionality is the Rule
The way people perceive you can open or close doors long before they hear your next track. Avoiding these early PR mistakes doesn’t just protect your image, but also builds a foundation for a career with real longevity.
