10 Ways For Muscians and Artists to Boost Their Local Network
Marketing, at it’s core, comes down to the business.
It’s not a one-size-fits all deal.. not at all. To properly market, strengths, weaknesses (in services) and assets can power marketing campaigns. So, the goal of Artists Junction was to provide resources to the local artists and musicians.
1) Schmooze!
With social media schmoozing is something that is now done in front of the public. Leveraging local relationships is something that can instill integrity in your name and product. Connect and befriend the local Chamber of Commerce through LinkedIn and Facebook. Connect with venues and galleries through social media. Just connecting or “following” is not good enough. These are powerful relationships that deserved to be nurtured. To do that, show the businesses you are aware and a fan of their website, blog, news updates, and more.
2) Keep your portfolio current!
Though this may be filed under “common sense” it’s a common mistake we see artists making. Take it one step further, make sure that new gallery openings, exhibitions, and events are properly documents on your web site, Facebook page, tweets, and blog. Cross-channel consistency is very important with so many different social media sites becoming popular on the web.
3) Do not undervalue your talent!
Another common mistake, not promoting yourself. Believe it or not, many popular blogs started off with the social momentum of their friends and family. It is critical that you have your fanbase comfortable commenting on your web updates and status updates not because they like them, but because you can make them feel obligated. It is well worth a five minute phone conversation with anyone who owes you a favor, is a regular or at your events, and anyone you grew up with.
4) Treat every fan as if they were your only fan!
According to many social media experts, the customer service model (of your parents) is changing. With millions of people on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIN, you have the ability to make your fan special. By taking requests, responding whole-heartily, and making your fans’ voice heard, you will create brand advocates. These people will become word-of-mouth referral machines.
5) You are never too small for newsletters!
Many artists would rather be too quiet than too loud. However, the way the web works, users simply have to be reminded of why you are important, what you are doing, and why they should visit your site. Remember, your site is your image and it should be current with images, galleries, and testimonials. You should also be accessible to users through your site.
Newsletters do not have to be done monthly, although it is suggested. You can build a list of local residents, venues, and even advertisers. With a WordPress site, it is very easy to set up mail list programs like Aweber, conversionmarketing, Constant Contact, and iContact. Aweber is very easy to set up and does a great job managing lists. Musicians and artists can utilize local colleges and universities to hire writing/journalism interns for writing the newsletters as well. Many of your would-be-fans would just love to know what you are up to if you only told them.
