Experts in Business Planning

I went to Forbes website and I was able to find some professional business planning experts to research and share relating concepts with my followers.  One of the experts I researched was Cheryl Snapp Conner. Conner is the founder of Snapp Conner PR, a public relations agency.  According to snappconner.com, she has engaged in strategic programs for companies around the United States. 

A Strategic Perspective

On Forbes website, Conner talks about how leaders must have a calculated viewpoint.  It is best to have any problems set with a solution but be open to suggestions.  This is important because what investors look for in potential clients is how they work out situations if something goes wrong.

Choose Your Battles Wisely

In Forbes, Conner mentions that at times, it is best to be quiet and listen.  Sometimes, not speaking and opening your ears is more powerful than talking, especially during intense times.  This is vital because if an investor disagrees with an idea, it is best to just listen before replying to their argument.

Another business expert I researched was Judy Robinett.  She, herself, is an investor and an advisor for start-up companies according to Forbes.  On her website, judyrobinett.com, it states that she received awards for her work, including the Malcolm Baldrige Award for Medical Excellence received from former President Bill Clinton.

Learning and Moving Forward from Failure

With any business, there will always be failures.  Robinett mentions on Forbes that most beginning businesses fail three times before striking success.  It is important one must accept that failure and not give up because failure is a small part of having success.

Having Relationships and Connections

It is important that with any person you run into, connect with them in some way because it might help in the long run.  Robinett mentions in Forbes that without connections and relationships, it is hard to succeed and you’ll more likely to fail.

A Producer's Life

For a while now, I have discussed many things about starting a music/overdub studio.  But then I realized that I have not discussed my ultimate goal, which is to be a great music producer.  Being a producer does not mean making “beats.”  Being a producer means being a musician, composer, songwriter, sound engineer, but mostly, an all-around visionary.  Dan Conner mentioned on a blog on The Stereo Bus that, “producers are the people who decide how best to artistically and creatively represent the artist in a release.” 

It has been helpful through the past year to learn and apply facts and tips about the entertainment business, especially the music industry.  I have learned that although someone has talent or an art, it is best to properly own it.  This is true because everyone in the industry wants to own a piece or all of one’s intellectual property.  For instance, I read an article in Variety about Journey’s producer Roy Thomas Baker suing Sony Music for unpaid royalties.  Although I am an independent music producer, it is important for all producers to negotiate how the royalties will be split between themselves and a label. 

Being a music producer has its good and bad moments but that comes with the territory of the business.  With any business however comes with troubles but as long as you work hard with your craft, you will gain twice as more than what you have lost.  With that being said, having experience in the music industry pays off.  For example, I read on The Hollywood Report about the legendary producers, Quincy Jones and Pharrell Williams being honored the ASCAP Founders Award and the Golden Note Award for their hard work in creating wonderful music. 

I believe music is a lifestyle and I feel that music production is my contribution to the world. To learn more about producers, their duties, and other things dealing with music, check out The Stereo Bus.

Branding

For the past few months, I have been researching and planning to build my recording company.  I have also looked up information on branding and marketing.  As a producer, I have improved on my music but I am behind on branding myself.  For the entrepreneurism inside all of us, we should create and build onto a brand that speaks to the masses.  I read an article from the Under30CEO website, where they interviewed the award winning creative director, Ray Hirschman.  He has worked with television and radio advertisements for Mounds Almond Joys, ITT, Macy’s, and more. Hirschman talks about how brands can progress or destroy your business.  Here are a few outlines about branding:

Creating The Brand

A brand can consist of a logo, slogan, or tagline.  When making a brand, it must communicate to the consumer without it being too simple.  It should also separate itself from the competition. 

Brand Equity

Once you have a brand, you should be consistent with it to build equity.  Once people start spreading your brand through social media or word of mouth, your business will begin a growth of a fan base.

Brand Relevance

As your brand grows, you must be relevant with the current culture.  For instance, according to a Music Business Journal article, Pepsi and Twitter combined forces since Pepsi consumers use Twitter.  With brands, you cannot afford to be outdated with the times.

Clever Brands

When coming up with a slogan or logo, be sure it gives meaning and depth beyond words.  Make sure it isn’t modest or too wordy.  You might have to research other brands to get an idea of what you want your brand to represent.

In conclusion, having a good brand makes all the difference between your business having success or a disaster. Below is a video that shows why branding is important.  Take some time and do some research on your industry to come up with a brilliant logo or slogan.

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JKIAOZZritk