5 Essential Skills Every Aspiring Touring Professional Should Develop

Feb 16

The touring industry can be a challenging but rewarding career path for those with a passion for live events and a strong work ethic. In order to be successful in this field, there are several essential skills that aspiring touring professionals should develop. In this guide, we will discuss five important skills needed for success in the touring industry: work ethic, knowledge, being a team player, finding a routine, and budgeting.

1. Work Ethic: Touring professionals are known for their strong work ethic and willingness to go above and beyond to ensure that shows run smoothly. This means showing up on time, working long hours, and being flexible in the face of unexpected challenges. In order to develop a strong work ethic, it is important to cultivate a sense of responsibility and dedication to the job. This may involve setting clear goals, prioritizing tasks, and staying focused on the task at hand.

Prioritize tasks: When you have a long to-do list, it can be overwhelming. Learn to prioritize your tasks based on their importance and urgency. Being able to delegate simple tasks to your stagehands, or asking your co-workers for help is a great way to accomplish tasks quickly and efficiently.
Take Breaks: While its important to work hard, its equally important to take breaks and recharge. Make sure you are taking breaks to relax, eat, and hydrate. Taking breaks throughout the day will help you avoid burnout and to stay mentally prepared for whatever the day may bring.

2. Knowledge: Touring Professionals must be knowledgeable about all aspects of their jobs. This means staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and developments, as well as developing a deep understanding of technical aspects of the job. Aspiring touring professionals should consider taking courses, and seeking out mentorship opportunities in order to gain the knowledge and experience they need to succeed in the industry.

Attend workshops and seminars: Look for industry events and workshops that focus on topics you’re interested in. This is a great way to learn from experienced professionals and stay up-to-date on industry trends. As technology advances, it is critical to learn all that you can.
Read and subscribe to industry publications: There are several industry publications that cover news and trends in the live production industry. Subscribe to these publications and read them regularly to stay informed.
Seek out mentors: Find Industry Professionals you admire and seek their advice.

3. Being a Team Player: Touring productions are complex endeavors that require the cooperation and collaboration of a diverse group of professionals. As such, it is essential for aspiring touring professionals to be team players who are about to communicate effectively, work well with others, and contribute to the overall success of the production. This means being open to feedback and criticism, taking initiative when needed, and supporting your colleagues in their roles. Whether its making room for another department to carry out their duties, sharing a forklift with another department, or coordinating cable runs, it is important to be aware of the entire production and help maintain a healthy work flow for all.

Communicate clearly: Effective communication is key to being a good team player. Be clear and concise in your communications with others and always be willing to listen and learn.
Be flexible: Plans can change quickly day-to-day, so its important to be flexible and willing to adapt to new circumstances.
Be respectful: Always treat your colleagues and fellow professionals with respect, even in challenging situations. It is completely normal to have disagreements and misunderstandings, but when there is mutual respect, resolutions and common ground can be reached quickly.

4. Finding a Routine: Touring productions can be hectic, with long days and constantly changing schedules. In order to succeed in this environment, it’s important to develop a routine that allows you to stay organized and focused. This may involve setting aside time each day to review schedules, make notes, and prioritize tasks. Additionally, it may be helpful to establish rituals or routines that help you stay grounded and focused.

Create a schedule: Set a schedule for yourself each day, outlining what tasks you need to accomplish and when they need to be accomplished. Don’t rely solely on your memory, don’t be afraid to write things down and take notes.

Stick to a sleep schedule: While touring will require a lot of late nights and early mornings, its vital to find a sleep pattern that works with your work schedule, even if that schedule changes daily. This includes finding times of day to take naps and sacrificing a day or night out to catch on sleep.
Make time for self-care: It’s important to take care of yourself while on tour. Set aside time each day for exercise, meditation, or other activities that help you relax and recharge. 4.
“Establish rituals or routines that help you stay grounded and focused.”

5. Budgeting: Life on the road can be expensive if you aren’t careful. While you will receive perdiem, if you aren’t careful, you could find yourself spending money that you otherwise should be saving. Having a strong understanding of your finances, both income and expenses will help you manage your activities and spending on the road.

“Having a strong understanding of your finances, both income and expenses will help you manage your activities and spending on the road.”

Most new touring professionals do not realize the cycles of the touring industry. You could be rolling in money for 7 or 8 months, but then find yourself searching for work 4 or 5 months out the year. It’s important to understand these trends and where you fit into them throughout the year.

Create a budget: Before you hit the road, create a budget for yourself outlining your expected expenses and income and abide by a strict set of rules on the road to minimize frivolous expenses.
Keep track of expenses: Use a tool like a spreadsheet or a budgeting app to track your expenses while on the road.
Be mindful of your spending: When you’re on tour, its easy to overspend on meals, drinks, and purchases while forgetting about bills and other expenses, it’s key to stay organized and on top of all of your finances.

Conclusion: The touring industry can be a challenging but rewarding career path for those with a passion for live events and a strong work ethic. By developing essential skills such as work ethic, knowledge, being a team player, find a routine, and budgeting, you can increase your chances of success in this dynamic and exciting industry.