Diva Conversation #1

*Introduction*

As I embark on my crazy adventures in the entertainment industry, I can't help but feel overwhelmed with socialnomics, digitalization, RSS feeds, wikis, widgets, and gadgets--you name it. I don't truly understand exactly how to navigate through all of this technology just yet, but it is worth a valid investment of time and effort to learn how to monetize my business through this platform. In other words, if you want to be successful in this world, you have to get with the times...and well, it's time I start catching up...

*My business*

Diva Vox Studios is pretty simple: I get to teach students how to find their true voice, on the stage and in real life. As a seasoned performer, I truly enjoy inspiring, mentoring and developing young talent in music and theater, as well as teaching them how to be confident with who they are. Maintaining these relationships with my little divas mean the world to me, but it is also important that I build relationships outside of my classroom and into the business world. When you meet anybody, you never know what you can do for them and what they can do for you. You never know what connections can be made and what doors can be opened...

*Meet as many people as you can, and then some*

I grew up really shy and music was always my outlet--my way of expressing myself. Even today, I find myself crawling back into my shell. If you do the same, STOP. The people around you are merely portals into many successful possibilities and opportunities for you and your business. Keep your business cards handy because you never know whom you are going to meet. Maintaining contact with people you meet throughout your entire life is relatively easy to do today. Keep in touch with old classmates, coworkers, and friends via email and/or social media—you never know what relationships can be built from them… even if it takes years down the road.

*Hone your personal brand*

A lot of my business comes from referrals from not just my clients, but from other professionals in my industry. They may not know anything about singing, but they know about me. Being consistent with the way you run your business--your style, professionalism, attitude, and charm--establishes your reputation. If you could figure out how to creatively make yourself unique and distinct, you create a message and a strategy to promote the brand called You. And more and more people will love you not just for your abilities, but also for the brand that you create for yourself.

*Become contagious*

So how does this relate to using the Internet? As I continue to learn more about business, I realize the importance of having an interactive marketing strategy in place, and the internet is a major component to take into consideration. The following are some examples of ways you can help kick-start your career and best of all, they're totally FREE!




1- Join Online Communities:




Different communities serve different purposes but what they have in common is that they represent you. Setting up a LinkedIn account is a great way to highlight your professional attributes, skills and experience. Its basically an online resume for potential employers and professional opportunities. Incorporating a Twitter account is a great way to give life to your online presence by frequently updating what you are doing. Making your Facebook consistent with your brand is also a great way to connect your friends to what you do. Additionally, you can make a lot of great contacts via specific online communities that are related to what you do. For example, as a member of Modern Vocalist I am able to connect with other vocalists and voice teachers from around the world. This site allows me to keep up-to-date information on the latest techniques, studies, methods, and equipment. It also serves as a digital billboard for my own business. Finally, my participation with Indaba Music allows me to connect with other musicians to work on collaborations and discuss relevant issues in my industry.




2- Post Videos:




Establishing a youtube channel is a great way to showcase your talents for the world to see. Video is the best way for others to see your work in action. Also, you never know who will stumble across your video(s) and really like what they see...




3- Interactive Website:




And finally, the most important attribute of them all, is to maintain an interactive website where others can find you. On your site, make sure to include your contact information, biography, testimonials, pictures, videos and links to all of your other profiles. Your website will basically serve as the hub for all of your web profiles and will solidify your brand and digital presence. Think of it as a piece of internet real-estate where people can find you, whether or not they may already know you.

*Conclusion*

So as you can see, there is a lot of work that needs to be done! Luckily, I don't need to spend any money and well, it'll help me make money in the long run. I hope this helps anybody out there who is wondering where to begin and I wish everybody the best of luck!


Stay tuned for more Diva Conversations as I continue to blog about my many adventures. =)


*Katrina*