Record a professional demo. If you want to make a good impression, do not record your own demo at home unless you have intermediate knowledge of the mixing and mastering process. By renting time in a professional studio in your area, equipped with soundproof booths and knowledgeable engineers, you can record the type of demo that record companies will truly want to hear. Record three or four of your absolute best songs.
Send your demo to as many record labels as possible. Particularly, focus on labels that are passionate about your style of music. If you record acoustic folk music, do not send your demo to labels that specialize in punk rock. Know the market and zero in on only the best labels. This will save you time and energy, and ensure that your demo falls into the hands of people who truly "get" your band.
Perform regularly in cities where record executives and promoters fraternize. The Sunset Strip in Hollywood is a great place to build your fan base and get the attention of industry professionals. Nashville is another good place to start. Contact club owners in musically-influential locations about playing gigs. If you cannot get their attention, make friends with the bands that regularly play these venues. This can ultimately lead to valuable gigs.
Become active in social networks like MySpace, PureVolume and Reverb Nation. Sign up with a band account and promote your music in every possible venue. Take part in the contests, post in the music message boards, reach out to new fans and make your presence known. Successful artists like Hollywood Undead, Owl City and Iyaz got the attention of record executives after building a strong buzz on MySpace.
Network with other artists. Spend time in the concert venues, submit your songs for mix tapes and compilations, offer to remix tracks for other bands and do anything that can help you to build a rapport with other up-and-coming artists. Obtain as many valuable music connections as possible. This can lead to encounters with labels, opportunities for high-attendance concerts and ultimately increased exposure for your band, all of which are essential to landing a record deal.