Aggrandisement: Helping Micro-Enterprise Owner-Managers Construct Credibility in the Recorded Music Industry

ABSTRACT In this paper, we are interested in understanding the role of aggrandisement in the construction of identity within a creative industry. Our empirical data is based on interviews and observational data from thirty-six respondents in twenty firms from the music industry. Through our analysis we seek to explain how aggrandisement can be “externally directed” towards others to construct a professional reputation of competence and importance while portraying cultural relevance and expertise. Or, “internally directed” in order to build a positive illusion of oneself as a competent and worthwhile participant in the industry. Ultimately our research contributes to the reasoning behind personal reputation and confidence building in professionals in the music industry.