On the Road, In Need of A Plan
Life on the road can be chaotic. There are many moving pieces to consider and even the brightest minds in the industry have a hard time doing it. The worst thing you could do while on tour is to start out unprepared, but where do you begin?
In order to keep things simple, the answer is this: One show at a time. Using a day sheet will make all the difference as you prepare to roll into each venue, answering many of the questions that come up before those make-or-break moments just before your set. We've put together the top 5 reasons to use a day sheet, and even included a template for you to use over and over again!
1. Location, Location, Location
This may seem like a no-brainer, but there are few pieces of information as important to tour managers than location. Prior to load in, you need to know what and where your venue is. But that's not the only important part -- Where will you sleep? What will you eat? Where is the COFFEE? Look no further than your day sheet to provide that valuable information.
2. Punctuality, A Hallmark of Success
Now that you now where you're headed, it logically follows that you'd need to know when to be there. Knowing the exact times of things like load in, sound check, or catering will ensure you have a smooth and successful show. Punctuality will also strengthen your reputation with the venue, perhaps even leading to a future partnership! Timing may seem like a small thing, but don't underestimate it.
3. The Reality of Relationships
Next comes the who. No matter what leg of the tour you find yourself on, there will be people there. Band members, fans, drivers, and a host of others will characterize each show, and they are all valuable relationships. Building rapport will get you and your band far.
4. More Money, More Problems
If there's one thing you need to know, it's this. There's no time to set pricing for merch in the midst of unloading the truck, nor can you find out how much tickets cost once you arrive at you venue. Keeping track of these things on a day sheet will organize every detail before the doors ever open, keeping stress levels low and profits high.
5. Meet the Press
If there is press covering your show, make connecting with them a breeze. Having their name, number, and organization handy will help you better prepare for any interviews you have and communicate best what you want the public to know. A little organization will have them eating out of your hand -- and not eating you for lunch.
Now that you've seen a glimpse of how a day sheet can add a lot of value to your tour, check out the free template below. You can update it as often as needed so that every show ends on a high note!