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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

Cat Herder wrote: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

Use away, I stole it from my son

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

Steve

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

Perfect advice Hummingbird. Looking forward to seeing you there.