Building a Credible Image!
"Making It"
Knowledge, Wisdom, and Guidance for The Talented at Heart
by
David Hamilton
Your Credibility "From the Top" with Sean Demery (
Program Director of Live 105 San Francisco )
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If there is only one thing you can learn in this book, it is the one thing that
is worth way more than any amount of money you spend building up your skills
...... Remain Credible!
Sean Demery is the Program Director of one of the best programmed stations for
Rock music in the country. There are 1000's of bands that have started out in
the music biz by getting there material played on Live 105. Meet Sean Demery!
1. Can you explain why credibility and keeping your word is important as a young artist ? Can you explain what happens in the Entertainment Business when you burn bridges ?a) Your goal as an artist, agent or administrator is to be seen as one of the ones that can be trusted and communicated with. This is tough because during the course of your career you will make mistakes. Be honest, be genuine, be real. The rest will come naturally.
As far as burning bridges -- there is no useful reason to do so. You are dealing with human beings just like you who are insecure, frail, scared and many times have defense mechanisms in full effect. Everyone deserves respect and compassion. There is no power wishing malice to others. There is also no true power in burning a bridge. Bridges are built to be crossed again and again over the course of many many years. To build a bridge and then simply rip it down is poor business / engineering sense.
2. When you are looking for a new song to add to your radio station, can you share some of the qualities you look for ?a) Finding new music for Live105 is very simple. We listen to a lot of music daily. The stuff that instills passion or makes the hair stand up on our arms is the stuff we gravitate towards. It's as simple as that. Also, booking bands for our shows sometimes entails playing music from that band besides the usual remuneration. Even in these instances. If the music in question does not float our boat then we don't go after the band for the show. Again, it's as simple as what we like and think will attract listeners.
Credibility is your word, your actions, and your way of handling yourself as an artist. Everything you do should always be positive and moving forward. Credibility as an artist self defines your ability to be positive, reliable, constructive, productive, and forward moving. If your an actor and a director takes a shot on your ability, practice and practice harder to become a better actor for yourself and all will follow. If your a singer and a band auditions you to be the head of the band, be punctual and hold the leadership qualities that will be needed to be successful. If your an artist and someone wants your work in the house they just bought, give them your best. If your a radio talent and you have access production, make it all sound better than the last piece. If your a band member asked to play at a party, play your heart out. Building your ability, your brand, and your image means building your credibility as well. Your image will help you carry a successful career when you build your branding as a successful you ~