Tips I wish I had known about Stage Management When I was 21
Are you an aspiring stage manager? I’ve been in this complex, stressful yet wonderful career for 14 years, and I thought I’d share some things I wish I knew when I was just starting.
1. Embrace Failure: You’ll mess up sometimes, big time. It might be small errors on schedules, or awkward situations when resolving disputes. The key? Own your mistakes. You’re human and learning. Just make sure not to repeat them.
2. Success isn’t a Straight Line: Unlike some conventional jobs, stage management doesn’t always have a clear career path. You might switch between different paying jobs and responsibilities. The key? Adapt and redefine what success means to you. Paying your bills and managing your finances could be a great starting point.
3. Don’t Miss Out on Family and Friends: Time is precious. As much as your career matters, don’t forget to make time for family events, friends’ weddings, or vacations.
4. Read More: Acquire both soft and hard skills. Read books about personality traits and management. It’ll help you understand your style as a stage manager.
5. Join Social Gatherings: Networking is important too. Go out occasionally with the team. You can build relationships, and that will come in handy.
6. Learn Drafting: Drafting is a coveted and profitable skill that can also serve as an alternative income source.
7. Money Matters… But Not Always: It’s okay to need financial stability, but sometimes passion projects that don’t pay as well can feed your soul. It’s all about balance!
8. Don’t Make Your Career Your Life: Being a stage manager shouldn’t define your entire life. You’re also a friend, a family member, a hobbyist. Make sure to succeed in those roles too, it’ll make you a better stage manager.
9. Always Be Kind: Regardless of the situation, kindness should be your go-to strategy. It might not be always easy, but it will surely reflect better on you in the long run.
10. Learn to Adapt: Stage management is a field where one size does not fit all. What worked at one place may not work at another. Be prepared to adapt your systems and ways of working.
Remember, apart from the hard work you put in, always try to draw clear boundaries and don’t forget to take care of yourself. Stage management needs you at your best! For all those veterans out there, what other advice would you give? Share with us in the comments!