It’s true, sometimes working with a band can be like working with a room full of cats. Except in this case, the cats don’t answer their phones, don’t keep their social media updated, and sometimes just don’t even show up. So, how do you recruit a good band?

First and foremost, trust your instincts and go with your gut. Have you ever had a text or email exchange and looks something like this?

You: Hi! This is John at the Brewery in San Luis Obispo. I’m wondering if your band is interested in a gig here in July?

Band: yah sweet 4 sure

• Red Flag #1: Grammar. A band doesn’t need to know proper English or appropriate text etiquette, but they should at least give you confidence that you’re conversing with an adult and not a pre-teen. Wouldn’t it have been nice if they thanked you for your inquiry as well?

You: Great, what dates work for you and what it your price?

Band: anytime bro

• Red Flag #2: Non-responsiveness. So, you’ve looked past the capitalization issues in the texts and decided to proceed with your two questions…neither of which were answered.

You: How about July 14th from 7-10pm? We ask that you arrive one hour early for set-up and sound check. If that works please let me know your fees and where I can send you a W9 form.

Band: $425

• Red Flag #3: Brevity. Maybe this person is a fan of William Shakespeare and subscribes to the idea that “Intelligent speech and writing should aim at using few words”, but this is not building much confidence, is it?

If your instinct would be to run in the opposite direction and seek out a different band, your instincts are pretty darn good. Find locals bands by spending a few evenings at local music venues and/or Open Mic nights and check out the talent. If you like their style and sound, get their contact information and start building your database.

Make good use of social media, Google searches, and online platforms like Bandcamp or Soundcloud and before you make any calls or send any emails, spend a minute to see if the bands postings are up-to-date. If they haven’t posted anything in months, this may be another red flag. In our region, then are plenty of bands, so just move on to the next one.

Another great way to find local bands is by networking in the local music community. Attend music festivals and concerts to meet local musicians, contact or visit local music teachers and recording studios, and don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations on social media or from other local businesses. If you think that your music taste may be different from that of your clientele, print out a small survey card to put at your bar or tables or create an online survey on your website and social media to learn about their tastes.

Perhaps one of the most important steps in recruiting a band is to have a Submission Process. Build a page on your website where bands can provide information, link to their music and video files, list past performances, and provide price information. Over time, you’ll build a useful database of bands that you can refer to when the time comes.

And finally, after you have booked the band and they have performed at your venue, if you and your patrons enjoyed the show, do them a huge favor by thanking them on social media. For new bands especially, this positive feedback helps to build their following, and in turn can result in a larger crowd at your venue when you have them back.