What to do and not do at a music conference
My thoughts after attending Hyperfest in Albuquerque, NM
by Madalyn Sklar
I just returned from the second annual Hyperfest Music Conference & Festival. It was a lot of fun but makes me think of plenty of do's and not to do's.
Hanging out with Jodelle
Here is my list.
TO DO:
Have plenty of CDs (with the wrapper removed) and business cards on you. I'm amazed how many people don't do this!
Smile and be approachable. This is a network event so make the most of it!
Meet and mingle with music industry professionals as well as other musicians. You never know who can help you.
Attend workshops & panels. You can never know it all. Take the time to learn something new.
Be professional. Always, always be professional.
Follow up! What is the point of meeting all these new people if you don't take the time when you get home to send a follow-up email, phone call or hand written note.
WHAT NOT TO DO:
Think you're better than everyone else. No one likes a diva.
Arrive late for your showcase. It's a great way to not get invited back!
Not be prepared to showcase. Be rehearsed. Be well groomed. Always look your best. Don't look like you just rolled out of bed.
Please feel free to send me your comments. I welcome your feedback!
Copyright © 2007 Madalyn Sklar, IndieMusicCoach
Madalyn Sklar is a music business coach, consultant and author. She founded IndieMusicCoach and has spent over 12 years working with a wide range of independent musicians all over the world - U.S., Canada, Ireland and Japan thus far. Her goal is to help indie artists achieve greater success in the music business by working smarter not harder. She is also the founder of GoGirlsMusic.com, the oldest and largest online community of indie women musicians, with a vision of bringing together and empowering musicians from around the world.
Madalyn is available for one-on-one consulting and coaching at affordable prices. Check out http://www.indiemusiccoach.com for more info.
good list Madalyn... one thing I've heard Dan Kimpel warn against is approaching two people who are already engaged in conversation. More than two, no problem come on in. But when two people are talking you may be interrupting a private conversation - or a deal in the works.
enjoying the blog, thx for sharing
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