Always Audition

During a recent mentoring call, the mentee asked how to prepare for their first meeting with a new manager.? In providing the guidance, I offered an example from my personal life, which illustrated the best way to approach any new professional scenario.? My answer began with “I am always auditioning.”

This answer seems unusual, but it actually relates to another part of my life.? When I am not securing talent and mentoring or career advising, I play as a semi-professional musician.? When I was a teen, I had the to opportunity to study with world renowned musicians.? I performed live, recorded, and was published.?

I decided to step out of the music business, but also decided that music would remain an important part of my life.? It is something that has enabled me to continue growing while staying young at heart.? Music has cultivated the creative thinking that I bring to other areas of my personal and professional life.? Music is my solace.?

I have continued to play, increasingly so now that my daughter has grown into adulthood.? In this part of my life, I do a lot of freelance work.? ?This requires adaptability, versatility, and the ability to prepare quickly.? It means never resting on my laurels. ?In that sense, my professional life has informed my creative life.? Organization, discipline, and time management enable me to deliver what is needed.? As a result, I get called for a lot of emergencies, which turn into longer term opportunities. In fact, I am currently working with some high-level, well-known musicians, in addition to my own circle of players and friends.?

The key is that I treat every step from preparation, through rehearsal to performance as an audition.? Meaning – I never assume to have the job.? I constantly reapply.? In doing so, I am consciously employing my best skills and talent in a way that serves my client and adds value.?

Auditioning is like interviewing for the job.? Are you striving to understand what your client needs?? Are you communicating your expertise and accomplishments in word and action?? Are you giving a reason to be asked back to the job tomorrow?? Or to be recommended for an interesting new assignment??

Developing this mindset takes time and effort, but it enables you to stay fresh and in a state of continuous renewal.? And it pays off the next time you have a real audition.? Give it a try and let me know how it goes.?

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