Five longtime managers talk about their work in the most recent issue of Music Connection; here is some of what they had to say:
When trying to find a manager, look for somebody who loves you and your music. "Experience is great, but nothing in the world is better than having a believer in your corner, a manager who will kill for you."
With labels being less and less involved, a manager's duties have increased substantially. "A manager can't do it all. There are too many areas to cover". Management and artists have to work equally hard to make things happen.
A manager is not supposed to invest personal money into your act. His/her job is to find ways to generate income for you, through investors, publishing or licensing, promotion deals, shows (not in California, New York and North Carolina though. In case you didn't know, it's illegal for managers in those three states to book shows for their artists ....)
It's your dream and your career. If you're not willing to work for it, it doesn't matter how good your manager is, you will not be successful.
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