Time is our most important commodity. We can always make more money, more friends, buy new toys and although we can’t replace certain family members, we can always deepen our relationship with them. But, we can Never, Ever Replace Time. Another Second Just Ticked By…
One attribute that must remain top priority in the life of an EntreMusician is our indisputable ability to ALWAYS be prompt. Be it a Gig, Rehearsal, Meeting or even a recreational activity, our absolute commitment to being On Time will overshadow our musical prowess each and every time. The reputation we develop for lateness will erode any star power we may have accrued. Promoters, Venue Owners, Booking Agents and other Execs will soon write us off and immediately call someone else, even of lesser talent.
Nothing else screams UNPROFESSIONAL as loudly as lateness…consistent lateness has been a major factors in band breakups, deals going south and unproductive careers. EMs may need assistance in other aspects of our careers, but we are completely responsible for showing up on time. In today’s world, traffic, car breakdowns or even babysitting issues with our own children are extremely poor excuses for keeping appointments. Yes, there are times when the train completely derails, but if we’ve earned a high reputation for promptness, even those we are meeting with for the first time will know and understand that something went terribly wrong!
Being Prompt means and says:
I Care. I’m Vested. I Value Your Time. I’m the Right Person for this Project. I’m Dependable. I’m Accountable. I Honor You. You Matter to Me & My Company and so many other accolades. Fill Yours In Here ___________________.
No less than Ice Cube has been credited with the following quote, “If you can’t be On Time, Be Early!”
Being Early is the glistening cornerstone for the best EMs. We know that showing up even an hour or more earlier than scheduled can reap unforeseen benefits that were never factored into the initial equation.
For example, having an opportunity to have an in depth dialogue with the receptionist can work wonders as you wait. By the way, if you ever blow off or are rude to any receptionist, you are not a true EntreMusician and shouldn’t even be reading this blog. They are the true gatekeepers to your destiny!
Another example and one I have personally realized are the opportunities to speak with the person coming out of the exec’s office I am scheduled to meet with. On some occasions, I’ve had the ability to meet and collaborate with that person which bore more fruit than the meeting I showed up for. I was also able to get a feel for the exec’s mood, learn what the other guy said or did that I should or should not say or do – and being a person of faith, I have found far more spiritual advantages for Being Early than walking in five minutes before time.
I trust this piece of advice helps you to sharpen the biggest tool in your belt. If you master the Practical Power of Promptness and develop the potential to Be Early, you will be literally light years ahead of your contemporaries, leaving you more time to work on your artistry.
I am listening to “The Clones of Dr. Funkenstein” as I finish this, but Dave Holland’s Quintet just went off.
Oh and just a word of thanks to everyone who has downloaded and left wonderful comments about our new digital single, “Selah” featuring the wonderful talents of Sheldon Grayson and Jeremy De Jesus. Many thanks to all of the Online Stations airing the tune.
Jere B's Approach 