Introduction
If you’re passionate about music and have an eye for detail, becoming a tour manager might be the perfect career for you. Tour managers plan and coordinate tours for musicians, bands, and other performers. They handle logistics, manage budgets, and ensure everyone’s safety while on the road. It’s a demanding job, but it can also be incredibly rewarding.
Definition of Tour Manager
A tour manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of a band, artist, or performer’s tour. According to The Balance Careers, “The tour manager is the person who works with the band, venue, promoters, sound engineers, and other personnel to ensure that the tour runs smoothly.” This includes everything from booking venues and arranging transportation to managing tour budgets and ensuring everyone’s safety.
Overview of Qualifications Necessary to Become a Tour Manager
To become a tour manager, you need a combination of education, experience, and hard work. A bachelor’s degree in business, hospitality, or tourism is helpful, but not required. Experience working in the music industry, such as being a roadie or working at a venue, is also beneficial. Additionally, you must have excellent organizational and communication skills, as well as the ability to problem-solve quickly and think on your feet.
Benefits of Being a Tour Manager
Being a tour manager has its perks. Here are some of the benefits of the job:
Financial Benefits
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for tour managers was $51,780 in May 2019. Tour managers typically receive a salary plus additional income from commissions or bonuses. Tour managers may also receive free meals, travel expenses, and accommodations.
Job Security
The BLS projects that employment for tour managers will grow 6 percent from 2018 to 2028, faster than the average for all occupations. This is due in part to the growing popularity of live performances and festivals. As long as people continue to attend concerts and events, tour managers will always be in demand.
Opportunities to Travel
One of the best parts of being a tour manager is the opportunity to travel around the world. Tour managers get to explore new cities, meet interesting people, and experience different cultures. It’s an exciting way to make a living.
Roles and Responsibilities of a Tour Manager
As a tour manager, you’ll be expected to do more than just show up and supervise. Here are some of the roles and responsibilities of a tour manager:
Planning and Scheduling Tours
Tour managers are responsible for planning and scheduling tours, including booking hotels, flights, venues, and other logistics. They must also develop and adhere to a budget and make sure all necessary permits and visas are obtained.
Managing Tour Budgets
Tour managers must manage budgets for each tour and ensure that expenses remain within the allotted amount. This involves keeping detailed records of expenses, tracking receipts, and negotiating contracts with vendors and suppliers.
Coordinating with Venues, Bands, and Other Personnel
Tour managers must coordinate with venues, bands, and other personnel to ensure that shows run smoothly. This includes making sure that equipment is set up properly, that sound checks are completed on time, and that the performance goes off without a hitch.
Ensuring Everyone’s Safety
Tour managers are responsible for ensuring everyone’s safety while on the road. This includes making sure that transportation and accommodations are safe, that everyone follows local laws and regulations, and that medical care is available in case of an emergency.
Providing Customer Service
Tour managers must provide excellent customer service to fans, promoters, and other stakeholders. This includes answering questions, resolving conflicts, and providing support when needed.
Tips on How to Market Yourself as a Tour Manager
Once you have the necessary qualifications and experience, you need to market yourself as a tour manager. Here are some tips on how to do this:
Networking with Other Professionals in the Music Industry
Network with other professionals in the music industry, such as producers, promoters, and agents. Attend industry events, join online forums, and follow industry news. Making connections is key to getting hired as a tour manager.
Building Your Reputation Through Word of Mouth
Reach out to bands, venues, and other music professionals and let them know that you’re available for hire. Ask for referrals and recommendations, and don’t be afraid to ask for testimonials from former employers. Building your reputation through word of mouth is an effective way to find work as a tour manager.
Creating an Online Presence
Create a website, blog, or social media profiles to showcase your skills and experience. Post updates and photos from past tours, share stories, and keep your followers engaged. Having an online presence is a great way to get noticed by potential employers.
Challenges that Tour Managers Face
Being a tour manager can be rewarding, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. Here are some of the common challenges tour managers face:
Dealing With Difficult People
Tour managers must often deal with difficult people, such as band members, promoters, and venues. This can be stressful and challenging, but it’s an important part of the job.
Working Long Hours
Tour managers must often work long hours, sometimes up to 16 hours a day. This can be exhausting, especially when dealing with multiple time zones and jet lag. It’s important to take breaks and get plenty of rest.
Navigating Unfamiliar Terrain
Tour managers must often navigate unfamiliar terrain, both physically and culturally. This can be difficult, but with the right preparation and research, it can be done successfully.
Conclusion
Becoming a tour manager requires a combination of education, experience, and hard work. It’s a demanding job, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. Tour managers enjoy financial benefits, job security, and opportunities to travel around the world. The job involves planning and scheduling tours, managing budgets, coordinating with venues, bands, and other personnel, ensuring everyone’s safety, and providing customer service. To market yourself as a tour manager, you should network with other professionals in the music industry, build your reputation through word of mouth, and create an online presence. Tour managers must also be prepared to deal with difficult people, work long hours, and navigate unfamiliar terrain. If you’re looking to become a tour manager, these tips will help you get started.
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