Could you first introduce yourself to the reader?
My name is Julia (Jule) and I work as a booking agent for Echelon Talent Agency representing bands from all over the world in the UK and Europe. I am originally from Hamburg in Germany and moved here permanently in 2017.
What does your job involve? Give us the typical outline of a day?
I work on touring strategies with bands, managers and labels depending on their release plans and book shows and negotiate fees with venues, promoters, festival bookers in the UK and Europe. We also handle all the admin ourselves, so invoicing, contracting, etc. and help with the tour advances. My bands are my clients and I act in their best interest in finding them the right shows.
What’s great about your job?
I work very closely with my bands and feel like I'm part of their wonderful journeys. It's also very exciting to scout any new talent and find the newest hottest act before anyone else has found out about them.
What are the bits you don’t like or find challenging?
I am just praying that there won't be another virus, lockdown or anything similar. I don't ever want to reschedule a time for the 4th or 5th time again.
What are the highlights of your career to date?
Too many to count. Seeing my bands at their shows or festivals always makes me feel warm and fuzzy.
What was your career path into this job? Have you also worked outside the arts?
I finished my B.A. in fashion design in Hamburg and came over to London to work in the fashion industry as a designer, but was really just locked up in a basement room, stitching on buttons. I worked 12 hours a day and it got to the point where I couldn't go to any gigs anymore because I worked so late. Hence I decided to start studying again for a B.A. in Event Management to get a job in my first year and connect with people from the music industry. I can't play any instrument, but I go to at least 3 - 4 shows each week, and I knew I needed to make music my career. I also feel because I used to work as a designer/'artist', it really helps me understand bands' visions better. No idea can be too weird!
Can you describe your biggest challenge so far in your career? How did you overcome it?
Switching from the fashion industry into music. When something doesn't feel right and it won't seem to get better in the near future, get out of it!
Have you noticed any changes in the industry? If so, what?
There's a lot more focus on diversity, which is needed, but there’s a long way to go. People seem to be more honest and understanding after the pandemic. We understand everyone had a hard 18 months.
You’ve been granted the ability to send a message to a 16-year-old you. What do you say?
Don't be afraid to ask to get paid, but also take every opportunity at the beginning, there will always be at least one good thing that comes out of it.
Do you have any advice for young people interested in doing your kind of job?
Keep an eye on the agency careers pages and ask your school/uni if they have any opportunities to get your foot in the door. Always be nice and respectful to everyone, you always meet twice in life.
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