The Industry

For some stupid reason, photoshop won’t open on my computer so I can’t make the normal picture thingy, so just pretend it’s there. Okay? Great! This is another quick update/tip combo. The more I actually start to work in the business, the more I’m learning first hand. If you are wanting to do some promotions work, you are going to want to keep reading.

I’m really enjoying the promotions work that I’m doing here in Victoria, although it’s only been 4 shifts, I can’t believe I’m getting paid for the stuff I’m doing. However, as I have never really done street team stuff, I am learning promo tips/tricks as I go. This list is going to save you a lot of hassle and pain in the long run, so read and memorize!

Here is a list of things you want to have with you whenever you do an on location remote (seriously, trust me on this one!):

1. Scissors. You never know when you are going to need to cut something. Whether you need to cut off tape from old banners, cut rope to help secure things or just run with scissors… NO! No, wait… never run with scissors… or is it always run with scissors. I’m confused.

2. Tape. We have all heard of the magical uses for duct tape and you would not believe how handy tape is. It’s just so sticky!

3. Sunscreen. I learned this the hard way. Remember last week when I told you all about the golf tournament the station was running. Yup, let’s just say I wasn’t paying attention to the extremely (but manly) salmon tone spreading across my body. Sunburnt scalp, neck, nose, forehead, forearms, legs and a FANTASTIC flip flop burn… ALWAYS have sunscreen on you or in the cruiser because you never know when the sun might shine.

4. Sweater. Although you will be busy you might find yourself outside for long periods of time, in not so nice weather. Last weekend all day it was super hot out, but when I was on location in the evening, I realized I was still in shorts and a t-shirt and it was chilly. Also today, while I was battling the intense winds near the water, having a sweater came in mighty handy! This leads me to the next two.

5. Sandbags/Heavy Things. Picture this. Busy street market, easily a thousand people (if not more), I have just set up a big station tent and then the wind starts blowing. Not a slight and refreshing breeze. Nope. Try tent blowing over wind and do you think I could find anything to keep the tent put? Not this time, but don’t panic!  This leads me to the last of the most crucial items you must have! 

6. Rope/Bungee Cord. When you don’t have sandbags or heavy things, rope/bungee cords can be a life saver! I forgot these handy tools at the station today, but I also didn’t think I would be battling a hurricane. Luckily people are friendly and the tent next to me had encountered the same problem the week before and brought extra stuff and leant me a bungee cord which solved the problem. Which leads to another helpful piece of advice… ask people for help, people are really nice!

Again, memorize this list and I’m sure as I spend more time in the promotions department I will be able to update and add to this list. If you know of more things that you should never leave with, leave it in the comments below!

-Mitch

P.S. I just noticed in the list I left out the most crucial part of any remote… PRIZES/GIVEAWAYS! This is more important then rope, duct tape and heavy things. People couldn’t care less if there are signs up if they are scoring free swag. Just sayin’.