Several people I know have recently been trying to make an impression on the music industry so I thought I'd help out with a few tips for new artists and bands trying to make themselves well known.

This isn't an exhaustive list, but it will certainly help you in the right direction...

Be enthusiastic

If you would prefer to be playing football, play football - you need driving unstoppable enthusiasm so if you're not committed, don't bother.

Play any shows you can get

Phone round to try and get more shows - the more outings you get, even if the event isn't ideal for your type of music, the more confident you will feel on stage, the better you'll be at the next event.

Record a demo/EP

You probably know someone who has a recording studio near you. Get it done. You will find recognition much easier with promotional recordings.

Get yourself a proper website too

You think Myspace is fine? Think again. Myspace reeks of the "we do this just for fun" impression. get a website which is simple, beautiful and easy to navigate.
Don't do it yourself using Dreamweaver or Frontpage - look at something like Wordpress or get someone to manage Wordpress for you.