How to attend a conference

WONDERFUL advice! Derek, high praise for being able to just say it the way it is.

Any VIP at a conference gets his/her arm pulled out of socket by writers and artists tugging on the sleeve for attention and forcing CDs into their hands. How very refreshing it is to have someone make a comment relating to the VIP's last project, or policies, or demonstrate an understanding of what their company ACTUALLY does.

And yes, end-of-day notes are an untapped treasure. Brilliant.

JF

Brilliant! I'm stealing this, lol

Awesome advice! I wish I had been armed with this information at the last conference we played.

Well put, Derek.

As a panelist at the Taxi Road Rally this year I had plain ol' business cards thrust at me while leaving the stage... I just didn't understand what the point was. Was it my responsibility to follow up with them?!

So many hopeful artists and aspiring writers think they are owed success, that they've just keep being passed over... when people reach out and try to simply be decent, good, genuine human beings they'll be surprised at how quickly calls and emails get returned.

That reminds me... I have a few in my inbox that I haven't gotten back to yet. Argh. Back to it...

I've built my business on many of these principles of which you speak oh wise one :)

I believe that is why I've been so successful ;)

That and knowing you Derek :)

And overusing smiley faces :) :) :)

Jennifer Yeko

True Talent Management

www.truetalentmgmt.com

Thanks Derek! Every time I read one of your articles I'm reminded why I keep reading your writing. You know what you're talking about and you reframe things and make me think.

You're right, the last thing these folks need is something else to carry around with them. Or someone else who's expecting them to do all the work.

Thanks again and have a great non-denominational potential holiday period of no specific length. :)

I never think about it that way, and then you make it make so much sense. Damn... you rock sir.

great advice & insight, as always, Derek!!!!!!!!! thank you!

Great Advice Derek, every aspect is so right on track-- Thanks for sharing this with artists and labels.

I couldn't agree more. This is a wonderful resource that every musician should read!

Hey Derek -

You are right on the money. You truly have a great talent for promotion. Thank you for sharing again and again your insights and experience in musical promotion with the rest of us who are learning through trial and error.

Course you must have a book in the works called the Sivers Guide to Musical Promotion,right? You should!

Derek-


You've done it again, sir!

Very well said... it's hard to think about all that sometimes....

Kudos, sir!

~Joel

Amen brotha! I'm definately in the 1%... and the notes on the back of cards is SO true.. even if it's just a one word memo to yourself!

Nice!really brings it home.I think annother key point is that people have a flexible, organized database for their contacts where they continually take notes.

Derek,

Again, you have hit the nail on the head. I attended the Taxi Road Rally this year, and it was a great conference full of opportunities.

However, I always felt weird when thrusting my CD and card at someone, as if I was doing it all wrong but didn't know why. This is the perfect explanation!

I left the responsibility on the other person to chase me down, rather than leaving them wanting more and then following up and creating a conversation.

The only person who contacted me after the conference was a very nice recording engineer who asked for my card and immediately contacted me like you recommend in this article. And guess what? He has earned my goodwill and loyalty as a result.

Thanks for laying this wisdom on us..

Damian

Great information for Conference attendees. You are a marketing master!

I remember volunteering for the organization I now run. My volunteer duties included driving the Guests to and from the event. After days of not pitching my material the guests asked me why they hadn't heard anything of mine. They all asked me to give them songs to listen to. I still have a great relationship with many of these people.

By the way, volunteering is a great way to connect with people on a different level. You get back what you give.

ian

I wasted an expensive trip to Memphis Folk Alliance by not keeping good notes and following up. Next conference I'll work a little smarter.

Well you've done it again D. Great advice! (Btw I only go to conferences where I see a white horse parked outside...that's how I know you're there.)

Thanks for confirming what I always knew! "I" was responsible for getting my first major recording deal. "I" invested my funds as part of the initial production prior to being signed to a major deal. "I" have always had to do everything myself...if you want it done right, you'd better! Seasons Greetings Derek!

Silky Waters

Sage Wisdom, Derek. I will try & memorise every word ready for SXSW next March. It will cost us a small fortune to get there from the U.K. so anything that saves us wasting time & energy is welcome.

this is great advice derek for a regular conference. I would love to get your advice on the naca conferences and how you handled your follow up with those. Specifically when you didn't showcase. It definitely helps to make those connections about something other than I am an artist you are a booker... (lots of noise)

But what do you do when you have a list of potential places to perform and you didn't necessarily meet them or give them your music at the conference. I find it really hard to get a dialogue going with any of the student advisors or student bookers - they always have an excuse.

I've talked to other self-represented artists and agents and gotten great (yet conflicting) advice about not leaving messages just calling every day till you reach someone. Or leave a message and an email and call till you reach someone and then be fairly specific and demanding and what you want and when you want it - which is also difficult being the artist to flip that business switch on and talk details.

I feel like I'm ranting here (sorry!) - I would just love to read your specific advice about how to handle the naca/college follow up.

Thanks!

This is great advice not just for conferences. Generally in life aswell

Great advice, Derek! Thank you.

You get back what you give...

Kind greetings from Bosnia.

S.

Derek, couldn't agree more with your strategy - it definitely works!! Thanks for sharing :)

ah, so we're both Taoists :-)

Great advice for the next Taxi Road Rally ! I've got a year to prepare.

Peace - D

Reassuring to read! I'm not a great self-promoter, so it's much easier for me to get to know someone before ever bringing myself up. Some people around me say "promote yourself! Give that guy in the elevator a CD!" But it always feels wrong for me. I'd rather casually come across him a few times in a friendly manner and then have the subject of my music come up naturally. Good to hear I might be doing it right and not being too shy!

You are an amazing gift. Thank you for the articles!

You are an amazing gift. Thank you for the articles.

Gee I've been doing it right all along. I'm too shy to do it any other way. I will improve the nightly follow up cuase I absolutely lost contacts by waiting to get home. Anyone out there have any recomendations for Royalty accounting software.

Thanks,

John

I had a friend who taught me two important things that I really took to heart. The first thing is that there is such a thing as open mics, for people starting out that don't have a demo, but want to get live experience,-----and the second, which is probably 'as' if not even more important, that listening to the music, before trying to play it is as important as playing it. It's the same thing with anything. Listening is the most important part of any kind of communication. In general your common sense advice like this, for me personally has been invaluable.

Listening to them... I mean, instead of just trying to get them to hear what you're looking for.

Great information and especially the follow up email connection, it really works!

hi Derek,

thanks for responding to my e-mail a few months back and thanks for your helpful attitude. Things are going along well with the new project. By the way our mutual friend Danya River has been creating art(painting)last i heard.

keeping in touch,

-per

This was really one of THE best pieces of advice I have ever received.

Thanks, Derek. :)

brilliant advice. thanks!

Spot on Advice Derek as usual. This served me well at my very first NAMM show bacvk in 1996. This sage advice was given to me by my drum teacher at the time who was endorsed by several of the same companies I wanted to endorse and he told me to just meet and greet. Don't bring any packages and just listen, learn and gather information.

Then and only then if I struck a conncetion to follow-up with them 2-3 weeks later via phone and then go from there. Lo and behold it worked and has been working ever since. When you help others it always comes back to you ten fold, but you have to do it with the premise of expecting nothing in return, only to help someone else. It's truly a win win.

Thank you for this. Even though I don't go to conferences, it helps in all facets. All of us have noticed the "It's all about me" syndrome, and how refreshing it is to meet someone who is not (consumed with themselves -- especially artists!(: Since I do notice a little in myself, I've got some work to do!! Thanks again, O man of wisdom!!!

Tom N Tierney

www.myspace.com/tomntierney

Well, I have to say, this reminds me very well of my experience at Midem in Jan 2008. Excellent advice for newbies!

Very good blog, although sometimes and only sometimes, to be slightly pushy does no harm as it's the game people coming at conferences are willing to do. But great piece of advice! thanks

www.myspace.com/alixland electro-rock

I do agree with it 100%.

Again my experience as a lawyer leads, as it is much broader then the experience I made in producing and promoting music so far.

I made the best lasting clients never speaking about myself and my firm, but speaking about everything else and especially being interested in them.

I guess in music is the very same.

Thank you so much Derek, for awesome advise.

Happy Holidays ;)

"DO NOT push your crap on someone who isn’t asking for it. It’s the biggest turn-off of all"

GMTA

Derek, I've seriously learned more about life, living and the music biz in the past week or so of reading your blog than I have in years.

THANK YOU. Keep it comin'...

Thank you very much for the advice Derek.

Here here!

Great advice Derek!

You are so full of it!

Great advice... I mean.

www.BrianAshleyJones.com

Honest, refreshing, inspiring, & down to earth, as usual!

Happy New Years Derek!

One more thing: say Thank You!

I try to write a little thank you note to the booker/ owner after each gig. Especially if they hadn't attended themselves. Just to let them know one special thing that happened, or if their staff was really on the ball. If the sound person did a great job, making you sound good, say Thank You, and let the boss know. And don't forget to leave a good tip for the wait staff.

Hello Derek, I love your kind of talk Always positive and helpfuland kind Proves you are realy O.K.Enjoy All You Do ---Flo

Thanks Derek! That just laid out my strategy perfectly!

Agreed on this too -- I get way more gigs/CD sales on following up after I get to know someone, than on shoving a CD in someone's face 30 seconds after meeting them.

Sounds awesome and matches perfectly what I have read about how to treat people, from other sources.

I just read this through again, before going to a 3-day fair - it's not really about music but travel: event organizers, community centers and such, galore, so I should try it.

Thanks Derek!

Thank you Derek for this blog. I too recommend similar approaches for artists when in the conference environment. It irks me that artists constantly give me their Cds, with no background, or relationship with me. They feel I can make them a star or something. I'm not sure. They don't show their intentions. And they don't even ask if i want it. Then sometimes they say "well just take it as a gift". ah thank you. Perhaps you can send it to me back in L.A so I don't have to buy an extra suitcase to lug them all?!!!

Derek - great advice! I learned this lesson when I attended and worked at the annual "NAMM" conventions - "What do you do?" - Love it!

I think this is the most piece of valuable information musicians can have in regards to conferences. I've always had a hard time trying to decide which ones are the most effective. To know that it is not about my own promotion makes me feel great as I'm a person that likes to know what others are doing around me and who they are about. Great to hear and this article is a valuable asset to those deciding if conferences are something that works for them. Thanks Derek!

So needed to read this again as I am currently serving on a committee for a conference.

Thanks!

This is a gem of a post. Similar to the info you read in "How To Win Freinds And Influence Others" but with more hands on info. I will be attending a "Music Strategies" conference in June and this post, along with the recommended book will be surgically attached until then.

I've not been to a music conference, but I've spent a working life time at Science conferences. You are right on in what you say.I'm sure you know this but Why most people have a hard time not talking about what they are doing is their enthusiasm about their stuff.They don't have the willpower,training or experience to shut it down and wait for the other person to ask a question. We had courses in this for the new hires.
One other thing, We also asked questions regarding peoples " Hot Buttons". These are the Major issues that these folks need solving and what they were looking for in the way of answers. This helped tremendously in the follow through in the near future.

I'm afraid, I haven't been to a music before :-( I was meant to attend this year's SWSW conference, fully sponsored by a mate. I'd love to see what happens at these conferences.

Hey Derek,
did I ever tell you, you are my GURU?

Thanks to following this advice, I've landed endorsements with Elmwood Amp, T Rex pedals and George L cables. It's so very true. It works exactly like that. Thanks Derek!

Hi Derek,

Wish I could be at SXSW to hear your keynote. Your unique perspective as an artist, entrepreneur and guru makes your words carry so much more weight that those who preach but don't practice. This was excellent advice for life, not just conferences! You have done so much for me and I thank you for always being so generous with your time and your thoughts. Have a wonderful time at the conference!
Carole

As always, great, succinct and no BS advice Mr. Derek. I went to SXSW years ago and all I got was a great song out of the trip which is actually where my talents lie. So if you're not a networker, DON'T GO TO MUSIC CONFERENCES because you will either get a good song out of it-which you could achieve by visiting your grandpaw's grave in rural Minnesota-or you will go home really depressed...and broke.

god idea

GReat !!!

Great advice! Really helped me look back at some things I could do differently at future conferences.

Now that I have retired from the promotions business I can look back and say to those aspiring conference attendees: “SHMOOZE, DON’T SNOOZE. Have a good time doing it. Being a female set me apart from the mostly male people at the dinner table. When I didn’t know the names of Football players and their salaries I was at a disadvantage. But never mind. I steered the conversation into a different area. The "follow-up" aspect is the glue to a continuing relationship.

Once again Derek... Brilliant! You are my Sage. Wisdom comes from experience applied correctly birthing desired results.

Every word is gold!

Nice. Makes me wish I were going to one of these things. :)

Conferences are a little like speed dating expecting to find your soul mate, not real likely but you wouldn't be doing it if you thought it was impossible.
So , really, its just another day on your quest as an artist.
And it's amazing how many success stories end up revolving around some one event or set of circumstances where, looking back, a person realizes that they met everybody who was going to be important to their success in a short burst of happy accidents.
So the best way to look at conferences is to allow that maybe this weekend or whatever, is the one that will do this for you.
If you expect it, that's too much pressure, but if you just allow that it could be, then you will be a lot more cheerfull and open to it.

As usual, very timely! Thank you Derek!:)

It works and it reaps so many soul-filling benefits that outweigh the gig-getting. Investing in others this way is a "pre-flection" of the care an artist/s puts into their performance, the audience and the quality of music.

sometimes the best way to learn is
to just Listen good or bad.
every one has a brain and they decide what they want to do.

Hi Derek,
Well spoken words of wisdom and common sense.
I've read that if one has to ask for something,he does not deserve it.

Cheers, you are right on the money. I know from experience. Thanks for taking out the time too share.
All the Best,
Ronald Anthony

This is the problem that musicians so often have. You aren't selling your music or even yourself so much as an idea of yourself. Here's a trick to selling more merch, everyone that comes up to you after the show tell them your name & ask them their name & what city they're from. Use their name at least once. Remembering their name longer is unimportant, you will double sales because of the personal connection. When you are a salesman or marketer, you get to be an actor instead of a musician.

This article reminds me of why I should remember to read everything you send.
There are many gems of wisdom in your comments.
It is good to be reminded on a daily basis of how to be a good listener and care about those around you. Not just yourself.
Thanks
Reuben

Derek,

Here I was, ready to offer tips as best I could, then I read this. Damn, you are a show-stealer! Your succinct insights are dead-on. Take notice folks.

JP

Hi Derek
I haven't attended any music conference yet, thank you for great advice, I know this will be a wonderful tool to use it.

Thanks for sharing,

Jacco

Most of my conference experience has been summer camp for big kids. Enjoy!

Derek,

I truly enjoy reading every bit of advice that you have to offer. I'd love to hear back from you regarding an interview opportunity live on-air at 106.5 FM radio. i feel as though your advice needs to be shared to anyone that is listening. continue to help others as you will be appreciated and admired 300 times over. Thanks again.

What you say is not different from the advise on how to seduce girls (or whatever you're into). Don't force things, wait for signals that you're welcome, know that you will be espected to fulfill THEIR needs... Marketing and sedudction are the same thing (except that one wants your money and the other your body).

SXSW is the biggest ripoff of working musicians in history. Wait before you stop reading. I was called in 1986 to be one of the FIRST ACTS to play at the FIRST SXSW. I was told, "We want to invite all the A&R people from NY and LA to come and hear the great bands we have in Austin." Well, obviously it became a success -- for everyone BUT Austin musicians. They are rarely if ever given "showcases" now and the local venues who book local talent (who play there the rest of the year) have gotten SUED for even using the letters "SXSW" in their advertising (lots of ways to get around it, which are used - think Letterman!). Meanwhile the original organizers have become millionaires, reportedly get kickbacks from airlines, hotels and record companies (!) who use the week to showcase artists who are already signed!!! But Derek's advice is right on anyway because it doesn't MATTER if your gig is an "official" showcase or not. Take advantage of the presence of industry people. Local bands (and Austin bands ARE great), play at thrift stores, taco stands, on sidewalks. Anything can happen anytime. The "official" SXSW is a schmoozefest as we all know. But people who want to see you don't care where you are. Just as many opportunities can arise if you are not "selected." Come to Austin, work your contacts, and have faith. Put on your website where you're playing, whether it's "official" or not. And most importantly, as Derek says, work your contacts the rest of the year, so people will want to come see you when they come to Austin. Rock on.

Hi, Derek,

Yes, that's true. I actually totally agree with you.
That's the way of style at SXSW but probably I'll never been there. cause I'm not ROCK musician.

BTW, it's really nice translate of your article is shown. Perfect Japanese!

Hi Derek,

I believe that this advice does not only apply to conferences, but also with communicating daily to the people around us and to new people that we meet. This is a great reminder to be humble and to listen intently to the speaker.

Thanks for the awesome reminder!

Love it! Excellent tips! Truth be told I go to conferences, accept 100 cards and then maybe contact one or two people at most. It's a good idea to follow up with everyone at least with a one-liner - plus, most cell phones now allow you to easily take an image of business cards and the software assimilates it directly into your contacts in less than 3 seconds, so there's really no excuse!

Wish I had read this years ago! Sent it to my adult sons and said, don’t be like me- read this instead!

Also rereading your book tonight and half of these I wonder if you can do a post-covid-zoom update advice in the comments!