Going on your first tour, in any department, is an exciting milestone, but it comes with its own set of challenges. To help you navigate this new journey smoothly, here are three common pitfalls that even seasoned touring crew often encounter, and how to avoid them. From understanding professional conduct to staying on top of your commitments and pre-tour requirements, these tips will set you on the right path.
Take a look to ensure you start your touring career without a hitch!
1. Proper Conduct: Navigating Professional Relationships on Tour:
This is something that’s crucial in any career: knowing how to conduct yourself with different people at work. Whether you’re chatting with your head of department, production manager, tour manager, or even the artists, it’s so important to read the room. If you’re ever in doubt, play it safe. Almost everyone in the touring industry has seen someone leave a tour prematurely because they misread a situation and acted inappropriately.
Remember, even as a freelancer, your clients are your bosses. So, be mindful and don’t risk your reputation by getting too comfortable with the wrong person on tour. Take a few weeks to get a feel for the tour and settle in. Observe the dynamics, understand the team, and find your place naturally. Don't rush it; just ease into the flow.
2. Stay on Top of Your Tour Commitments:
You might not have to make your own flight bookings, handle equipment logistics, or drive around, but it’s easy to get complacent and lose track of where you need to be each day.
Make sure you’re always in the loop by checking any tour schedule apps, day sheets, or chatting with other crew members. Before you go asking the higher-ups, double-check these sources first. Otherwise, you’ll likely get the response, “It’s on the tour app,” and show that you’re not keeping up with things.
3. Staying on Top of Pre-Tour Requirements:
The tour may not have started yet, but you’ve got a few things to handle before it kicks off. Even if most stuff is being sorted for you, your involvement is still crucial. They might need your passport details, visa information, or have questions about equipment that needs to be booked. The list can get a bit long. Make sure to respond to these requests urgently so you can start your tour on the right track.
There you have it—three common pitfalls to avoid when you go on tour. Keep these tips in mind, and your touring experience can be a great time and an amazing journey. Happy touring!
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