The Position of Your Hand

Did you ever notice your hand starting to form into a fist without your knowing it?  It’s usually when someone is telling you something upsetting.  Pay attention and look for that clue because it could serve as a warning that you need to keep your temper from flaring.

What about when you approach someone in the business?  Are you extending your hand so as to shake theirs or do you just start talking in a way that implies that you’re coming to them palm up – also known as having your hand out, wanting something from them?

Many years ago, back when I was an intern, I was told, “I taught you everything you know.  But I didn’t teach you everything that I know.”

While it’s felt that knowledge is power, you first have to admit that you don’t know everything, and you have to be in a posture of always wanting to learn more.  Remember the old expression, “You learn something new every day.”

If you are combative (clenched fist) and don’t feel you need to meet new people, you are still able to, but probably won’t, learn new things.  Or, at least, learn them quickly.

Just before I started writing this blog I was catching up on a couple “back issues” of a weekly email newsletter that someone in the PR business sends out.  Does that mean that I doubt my skills and abilities?  No, I don’t.  Do I read those because I feel that I’m not getting results for my clients?  Not for a minute.  Does this guy have some tips that might help me?  Yes, I sure like to think so.

I’m registered to attend a two-and-a-half hour workshop tomorrow afternoon.  A couple weeks ago I sat in front of my laptop for 60 minutes to view a live webinar.  The list goes on.

I’m the president of the company and am currently being booked to speak to audiences wherein I will give advice similar to that which I’m reading about in newsletters and giving out each week here in this blog, not to mention on the podcast.  Why do I read email newsletters, attend workshops, and take an hour of my time to engage with a webinar?

The fact is, you need to stay up on the latest trends and information.  Imagine if someone started talking to you about Instagram and you had no idea what it is.  Or, what if someone told you that they love the convenience of mixing their band from their iPad and you nervously tried to change the subject.

Don’t view your peers as competition.  There’s a better C word out there – collaboration.  As heartwarming as it is to see people in the business – especially the accomplished singers, songwriters, etc. – sharing insights, is as discouraging as it is to see those who are ready to pick up their things and go home because they feel threatened by “how to” questions, as though their techniques are about to be stolen.

If you don’t accept that, then ask yourself where music would be if no co-writes ever got done.

Now, be kind to a colleague and Share this blog.  Paying it forward also has the age old reward of just plain making you feel good – just like some of those great songs that two or more got together to co-write.