Your reputation is the single greatest asset you have.

Titles might be good for your ego, but in the grand scheme of things what really matters is what you're known for, the projects you’re part of, how much people trust you, whom you know, who knows about you, and the aura you give off to people around you. Sure, what you do is important. But what others think you do can be just as important if not more so. If you build a strong reputation, the money and opportunities will find you.

S&E: What would you say are some of the biggest challenges for a music producer?

RDLG: The biggest challenge of producing is always the same. Be true to who the artist is, and at the same time give the artist a unique musical sound, thereby giving the artist their own unique musical “legs.” The competition level is high, so being unique is a priority.

• The internship, even though it includes actual operation of the employer’s facilities, is similar to training that would be given in a vocational school.
• The internship experience is for the benefit of the student.
• The intern does not displace regular employees, but works under the close observation of a regular employee.
• The employer provides the training and derives no immediate advantage from the activities of the intern. Occasionally, the operations may actually be impeded.
• The intern is not necessarily entitled to a job at the conclusion of the internship.
• The employer and the intern understand that the intern is not entitled to wages for the time in the internship.

"Find people you trust and care for, and surround yourself with them. These can be friends, supporters or business people. If you're at the point where you need a manager, look around at your musical friends who may have managers or even ask your mentor.

"Ask questions – ask everyone questions and send your music to your favourite artists or producers. If you have a favourite DJ or producer, see who handles them and try to get a meeting. There are so many ways to reach people now, you can get them through Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter or email.

"Put a record out, do remixes on spec and offer to help in the office of your favourite label for work experience. Being loyal and nice pays off in so many ways. It makes for a more pleasant life and it helps you develop long term relationships – 99% of the people I started out with are still friends and we still help each other in some way."