When it comes to cold-calling for gigs, it can be quite nerve-racking. However, you shouldn't be afraid! Yeah, yeah. I know it sucks feeling like a salesman, but like it or not, if you want to get anywhere in the music business then you'll have to be one.
The first step to getting yourself to feel up to calling on these venues is to logically dismiss your fears. Cold-calling is easily one of the best ways to find a gig, especially in the beginning stages of your band/musical act.
First of all, I want to go over some of most peoples apprehensions about cold calling.
1. I Don't Want to Bother People - This is probably my biggest problem. The truth is, that the venues you call MAY be interested. If they're not, they'll tell you, and it's not a big deal. Life will go on. If they are, not only is it a gig, it's a chance to showcase your talent. You never know who may be in the audience. It could be someone from another bar, someone who runs a big festival, etc.
2. What About the Places That are "Too Big" For us - Don't worry about that. Find out if the venue is appropriate for your type of music, and then give it your all. The payout in the end, once again, is much much larger than the loss of being denied. "You never know until you try" is VERY relevant in this occasion.
3. I'm bad on the phone/I don't know what to say - If this is the case, the best thing to do is write down exactly what you plan to open with. Even make up scenarios in your mind and plan on how you would respond to them, if you have to. This is something I do a lot before I dial the number, and it works out very well.
Keep it professional sounding. Work on your sales pitch, and when you tell them your style of music, stay at 1 or 2 types. DO NOT go on a tangent about how your band is "kinda like, metal, but with a little mix of psychedelic rock, a touch of indie and jazz." Most people don't care and will probably think you're flaky.
Always stick to your word. This is valid in any situation. If you tell them you'll be in later with a promo, BE IN LATER. If you tell them you'll send out a CD ASAP. Send that CD. Don't fall into the "lazy musician" stereotype.
Hope that helps. 'Til next time!
Keith
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