Do preliminary research before contacting record labels. Focus on labels that produce music that is similar to the type of music you make. Pay attention to the labels your favorite musicians record for. HitQuarters.com is a very helpful online resource for researching record labels. Compile a list of record companies that may be interested in your music.
Browse the websites of record companies you are interested in contacting. Most record company websites display the company's policies. Some companies accept unsolicited demos, but many don't. If demos are accepted, look for the mailing address and other contact information, and pay attention to the preferred format for sending the demo. It is important to know if follow-up phone calls or emails are accepted or discouraged; if they are accepted, make a note of whom to contact and how long to wait before making the phone call or sending an email.
Make a professional quality demo package. Along with the demo, Include a professional photograph, contact information, a short and interesting bio, and press clippings. Proofread everything a couple of times before putting it in the mail.
Keep a list of record companies that you have contacted. This avoids sending a demo package to the same company twice, which will make you look unprofessional. Jot the date down next to the name of the company. Follow up the original contact after waiting the recommended amount of time suggested by the record company website.
Market and promote your band. Since some record companies don't accept unsolicited demos it is important to generate enough interest that record companies are interested in contacting you. This involves touring and playing as many shows as possible, producing and recording your own CD, seeking radio air play on college and community radio stations, seek out publicity and advertising in music magazines and newspapers, and develop a professional band website.