Confessions
of a Master CD Sales WomanA
couple months ago, I wrote The Rogues to ask them directly what it is that
makes them so successful at selling CDs, and why they are one of the top 10 bands
on CDstreet selling CDs. Sharon Wothke wrote back: "As
head sales person for the band, I think that I would be the one to talk to. The
Rogues are definitely unique in what they do, and if you will indulge me, very
good at what they do. As
a sales person, I know that the way the guys play their music definitely is the
biggest factor in their sales quotient. When the music, which can be described
as infectious, is smoking hot, and everyone is having a good time, the sales are
usually pretty good. Most people who come to a Renaissance Festival, where the
band still does the lion's share of their gigs, do not come
expecting to
buy a CD with bagpipe music on it. The Rogues have converted many people to this
form of music. So in other words, they create a unique atmosphere which is conducive
to sales. If
the guys are doing their job (making great music), it makes my job a lot easier.
I just have to be available and approachable to people and looking like a I am
a part of the show for people to feel comfortable in coming up to me. We started
from the very beginning employing the use of a roaming basket. It is very effective
and other groups have successfully copied our approach. Our
sellers walk around holding up the product so people can see them. Our sellers
try to blend in with the show and not be pushy, just visible. I personally enjoy
interacting with the crowd, spoofing off of what is being said on the stage and
telling jokes to make the audience laugh. And I will talk and be nice to everyone,
even if they don't buy a CD simply because I enjoy people and I am trying to be
an ambassador for the band. They may not buy today, but chances are they will
think about it and buy a CD at another time." Straight
from the Master's mouth. What does it take?
1. Great music
2. Great live
performance
3. Roaming sales people with baskets of CDs
4. Sellers hold
up product DURING the show
5. Sellers blend in an interact with the show The
Rogues use CDBaby to sell their CDs. Why? See
for yourself? Read
Part 2
Bard Marc Gunn
of the Brobdingnagian Bards has helped 1000's of musicians make money
with their musical groups through the Bards Crier Music Marketing
and Promotion Ezine and the Texas Musicians' Texas Music Biz Tips.
Now you can get personal advice by visiting http://www.bardscrier.com
for FREE "how-to" music marketing assistance.
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