Today as I was checking my email, I received a call from a dentist office. No big deal on the surface, but a light bulb turned on inside my head instantly which lead to the inspiration of this post. Why so? The dentist office was returning my call in reference to a message I left them about making an appointment. This wasn’t the first call back. They were actually following up to see if I received their initial voice mail in response to mine. That was cool. This was a new dentist I called on. I was not a patient. Funny how a simple call back can make a difference in your perception of someone.
Admittingly, I used to be the worlds worst at returning phone calls. Within the standards of the entertainment business, I wasn’t really any different than anyone else. Basically, I followed the #1 rule of music industry protocol regarding phone calls: If you don’t know ‘em – don’t call ‘em back. If it is that important, they will call you back and maybe you might answer depending on what you are doing at the moment. It’s a sad truth in the music industry, and one that really tends to breed a bit of arrogance. I have since changed my mindset about returning calls, and I challenge you to do the same.
In defense, there are some parameters that need to be established regarding return phone calls. Sometimes there is just not enough time in the day to return every call. That is understandable. Often (especially with record companies, managers and booking agents) – there are so many messages, it can be difficult to determine which are important and which are not. Yes, to the person calling, it is obvious the message is important, but if your reason for the call is to ask an A&R person if they will listen to your music – than the chances of them returning your call are slim. Everyone wants to have a record company listen to their music. It’s an automatic, obvious reaction not to return your phone call. A&R are swamped with music. It’s like cold calling a famous director and asking for a part in their next movie (if you get the part – email me!).
However, returning phone calls is definitely a choice. And, most of us aren’t as busy as Brendan O’Brien. Ultimately, it often comes down to negligence and procrastination.
Think about it. How do you feel when you get a phone call back? I’m not trying to get all emotional here – that is not what this is about. Peel away the pride for a sec. People who return phone calls are typically perceived as having more integrity in the business world. It truly helps to establish and build relationships, which can’t hurt in your networking endeavors.
I remember back in the middle 90’s, when I was running my management and publicity company, I called Bob Grossweiner, then Senior Editor and New York Bureau Chief of the now defunct Performance Magazine. Bob has been in the business for a long time, and has penned hundreds of articles in addition to interviews, being on panels etc. I left a message with Bob, because I wanted him to listen to an act that I was managing at the time, to merely get his input and advice. Guess what? He actually called me back. That is what I’m talking about. My perception of him was that of integrity. He didn’t have to call me, but he took the time to do so. That speaks volumes in terms of ones character.
So when those messages start piling up, make it a point to write down who you have to call back. Typically, the people who have little impact on your agenda will be placed at the bottom – and honestly, sometimes that is reality (sales people come to mind). But, think of your day to day business dealings in regard to booking, promotion, marketing etc. Call people back! You will find that it will only help to create a positive perception in others and at the same time, you may actually be more productive by not avoiding issues!
Get a Gravatar
Why don't you make one?