Look For These Attributes When You Recruit A Manager For Your Rock Band

When your fledgling rock band is finally ready to move out of the garage and begin playing some gigs, there are several things that you'll need. Upgrading your gear is often a good idea, but you'll also want to think about adding a manager to the mix. A manager will be a valuable resource for furthering your band, and even if you cannot pay him or her at this point, you'll still likely be able to find something with an aptitude for this role. Don't automatically hire a friend or an older sibling. Instead, put the word out that you're looking for a manager, and evaluate these attributes as candidates present themselves.

Assertiveness

Your manager needs to have an assertive nature about him or her. Until venues are ringing your phone off the hook begging for you to play for them, your manager will need to pound the pavement and get your group booked. This isn't a job for someone who is meek. The manager may face venues saying no, but he or she will have to remain determined and continue to approach as many venues as it takes to get someone to book your band for a show.

Troubleshooting Ability

A good rock band's manager can wear several hats, including that of a troubleshooter. As a manager, he or she is responsible for overseeing a broad range of things, including booking, marketing, and even putting together some plans for merchandise sales. An effective manager is also someone who is adept at troubleshooting the inevitable problems that will hit your band. This could mean knowing how to fix musical instruments, connections in the local rock music community to borrow gear or buy used gear at a good price, and more.

Disinterest In Partying

You'll likely come across candidates who want the role of manager for your rock band simply because they want to hang out at bars and party. This isn't the type of person you want in this role. As you speak to each candidate, you should assess his or her degree of seriousness. If the person continues to bring up drinking, partying, and taking road trips, these aren't the core elements that you want your manager to be focused on. You want to hire someone who, as the adage goes, has a good head on his or her shoulders — in other words, someone who is serious, committed, and mature.