3 Common Mistakes Music Studio Managers Make
What does a music studio manager do? Obviously they manage their music studios, but their everyday tasks can sometimes be made more difficult when encountering some of the most common mistakes in the business.
Let’s have a look at some of these common mistakes and how to correct them or avoid them altogether in order to become a better music studio manager.
Not Taking Care of the Instruments
As a music studio manager you are going to be dealing with a lot of instruments, which means, taking care of each and every one of them.
Of course many students will be able to bring their own instruments, but that’s not always the case.
It also depends on your rules and how you’d like to handle the studio in regards to music instruments.
But, when it comes to instruments such as a piano, drums and other big instruments, you should be able to provide them.
It’s good to also be reminded of the recent events in the world and the pandemic, which have made safety and hygiene a very important factor in studios of any kind, so make sure that cleaning your instruments is a top priority.
Choosing the Wrong Place for your Studio
This of course also depends on the manager, but generally there are three options, a home studio, a school or a rented space.
Each has its ups and downs so let’s review some of the strengths and weaknesses for every option.
Home Studio
In many ways this is the most convenient and comfortable out of all the options, not only because you don’t have to worry about moving from one place to another, but also there will be no rent or schedule problems.
One of the biggest downsides of having a home studio is that it’s not a good place to start.
If you are just starting out in the world of music teachers, it would be better to be surrounded by people who share a common interest while also getting out of your comfort zone.
That being said, let’s move on to the options outside your home.
Rented Studio
If you choose to rent a space for your studio, you probably have partners and you’re looking for a bigger business than just a home studio.
Having partners is not a must, but it obviously softens the financial blow of renting a suitable space for your music studio, but what is a suitable space?
Well for a music studio, the first thing you should consider is electrical and acoustic practicalities.
Then of course, review the basic services, accessibility and location so that you can make the final decision on the space.
School Studio
This is without a doubt one of the best ways to get started, not only because as a teacher, you would have tons of potential students, but it’s also good to share that environment as you get used to teaching.
A lot of the considerations from rented studios carry over to school studios, however it does feel like the least lonely option from the three.
Not Having a Clear Goal
If you are not the studio owner but are looking to be a studio manager, you may be asked a few questions on your interview that resemble these next questions
1. What information should you examine before creating a company budget?
Tests the candidate’s knowledge in budgeting.
2. What skills, in your opinion, are most important in a Studio Manager?
Candidates should list confidence, excellent listening skills, or organizational skills as key attributes in a Studio Manager.
3. Describe how you maintain relationships with clients. Why is this necessary?
Shows interpersonal skills.
4. What current business industry trends may have an impact on your role as a manager?
Shows the candidate’s knowledge of the latest industry trends.
5. What is your approach to managing a project?
Shows the candidate’s planning skills from conception to execution.
If you are also a studio owner, ask those questions to yourself as a little exercise to get your mind in order.
Once you get your affairs in order remember to keep track of all your lessons, staff, students and an organized schedule with Studio Helper.