I can't take CD's again this year

[Cat Herder]

I am not collecting CD's again this year. I just get too many. Use them for other opportunities. That said; bring a bunch because few presenters there do not take them, I may be the only one. I prefer business cards that are clear and easy to read. I do not like over sized cards, or odd shapes. I have never chosen a composer based on his or her business card being all fancy pants. I have tossed ones that are too hard to read (Dark Blue background and black font, or font too small). I prefer plain white with your name, Address. Phone, and "E-MAIL" address. E-mail and name are most important. I prefer a link to your music whether it is a TAXI Page or Sound Cloud. If you do not have a link then there is no point giving me a card. Links are free. I do not want e-mails and attached demos, and least of all, I hate YousendIt. I hate cluttering my system with downloads.

Please; if I am talking with someone have the courtesy to let me finish. I get so embarrassed when the middle of my sentence interrupts the beginning of someone elses. Courtesy will go a long way. As important as anything else do not try to close a deal. I don't work that way. With courtesy and professionalism you have a fair chance, if I perceive anything else you have no chance. You card will not make it past the first trash can. I recommend this for whoever you approach.

If you are plastered, wait until the next day. Been there, don't like that. Remember, we are looking just like you are.

Thanks
Dave

[cardell]

Please; if I am talking with someone have the courtesy to let me finish. I get so embarrassed when the middle of my sentence interrupts the beginning of someone elses.

..love that! I might use that line in the future myself...if you don't mind.

Stuart

[Cat Herder]

Use away, I stole it from my son

[stevecollom]

Thanks Dave
Great advice. This will be my first Rally! can't wait!!

Steve

[hummingbird]

For those planning to take CDs, here's what I did.

1 - make sure they are labelled. I bought laser printer CD labels and printed them up. I had 2 sets, 1 for giving out to the general populace (name, website, list of songs); and 1 for music industry (Make sure your contact info (name, email, phone number) is on it!) & panels.

2 - because of space-in-the-suitcase issues, I put the "hand out to anyone who asks/gives me theirs" in a CD Envelope (50); bought proper CD containers for those I would pass to industry professionals (20); and a few of those thinner CD covers for those that would go to panels (10). Also bring a few elastic bands to wrap your lyric sheets around the panel drops (and bring lyric sheets )

3 - as Dave says, a simple business card, cleanly designed, that says something about what you do, and is up-to-date, is also good to bring (speaking personally I never include my home address for security reasons, but do include email & website & tag line). Also a good idea, when you get someone's card - write on the back where you were and what you chatted about so you can follow it up. It's a lot easier to bring 500 business cards than 500 CDs.

4 - make sure whatever web presence you are putting on your card & CD is up-to-date as well.

This is a relationship business, first impressions count and presentation matters.

HTH
Hummin'bird

[Cat Herder]

Perfect advice Hummingbird. Looking forward to seeing you there.