How do you resolve conflicts with venue owners?

1 Understand the contract

Before you agree to play at a venue, make sure you read and understand the contract carefully. The contract should specify the terms and conditions of your performance, such as the date, time, duration, fee, cancellation policy, sound check, rider, and insurance. If you have any questions or concerns, ask the venue owner or manager to clarify them before you sign. If you need to negotiate any changes, do it in writing and get a confirmation. This way, you can avoid misunderstandings and disputes later on.

2 Communicate clearly

Communication is key to building trust and rapport with the venue owners. Keep them informed about your plans, needs, and progress. Confirm your arrival time, set up, and sound check. Let them know if you have any special requests, such as lighting, stage, or sound preferences. If you encounter any problems or delays, inform them as soon as possible and apologize. Be polite, courteous, and respectful at all times. Don't assume anything or take anything for granted. Listen to their feedback and suggestions and try to accommodate them if possible.

3 Be flexible and adaptable

Sometimes, things may not go as planned or expected. The venue may have technical issues, schedule changes, or other unforeseen circumstances that may affect your performance. Instead of complaining or arguing, try to be flexible and adaptable. Work with the venue staff to find solutions and alternatives. Be willing to compromise and adjust your expectations. For example, if the venue is smaller or quieter than you expected, you may need to lower your volume or change your set list. If the venue is crowded or noisy, you may need to interact more with the audience or play more upbeat songs.

4 Handle complaints professionally

If you have any complaints or concerns about the venue, don't vent them on social media or in front of the audience. This will only make you look unprofessional and damage your reputation. Instead, address them directly and privately with the venue owner or manager. Be calm, polite, and factual. Explain the situation and how it affected your performance. Provide evidence if possible, such as photos, videos, or receipts. Avoid blaming or accusing anyone. Focus on finding a resolution, not a confrontation. For example, if you feel that you were underpaid or overcharged, ask for an explanation and a correction. If you feel that the venue did not promote your show properly, ask for a refund or a discount.

5 Learn from the experience

After the show, thank the venue owner and staff for their hospitality and cooperation. Ask for their feedback and evaluation of your performance. Take note of any compliments, criticisms, or suggestions they may have. Learn from the experience and use it to improve your skills and professionalism. If you had a positive and successful experience, express your interest and availability to play at the venue again. If you had a negative or unsatisfactory experience, decide whether you want to work with the venue again or not. In any case, don't burn any bridges or hold any grudges. Remember that the music industry is a small and competitive world, and your reputation is your most valuable asset.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?