Dear Alma, I want to take over an agency but I might lose out - Slippedisc (2024)

John Borstlap says:

It is always difficult to work for a boss with multiple personality syndrome. You may take-over the job from one of them and then you find-out there’s still another one around.

Ask Calma says:

What agent has the money to be able to buy their agency???

There’s something to be said for young flashy people. They bring energy and ideas but they are also far less likely to stick around and won’t command the levels of artist respect as the sage old manager.

First thing I’d suggest is to give yourself a shake and remember that you are valuable and valued.

Second, think about where you are putting your energy – “don’t be mad, be better”. If you spend half of the time/energy you’re spending on worrying about the future as you did demonstrating your leadership potential and ability to innovate, you would begin to feel more confident about your position.

Finally, remember that you have other options available to you – how many of your artists would go with you somewhere else once your boss has retired, for example?

I throw a word of caution on the direct conversation with your boss about it. You know them and what they are comfortable to talk about. Remember that retirement can be a very sensitive subject for some. I still think it’s a good idea to get some clarity, but choose your moment carefully.

Jeffrey Biegel says:

Depending on the management you work in, you leave out key facts. Have you generated a specific amount of income for the agency? Do you personally represent artists? Would they back you up now or later? Do you represent artists that have an edge to build up on? Do you know orchestra administrators or conductors on your side? How much longer than the new person have you been there? Did you work at a management before this one? Are there colleagues in the office that would back you up? In fewer words, your current standing, work ethic and dedication to the office sounds strong. Do you think the new person is, perhaps, just being encouraged to work hard or is it a definite favoritism?

Ludwig's Van says:

I’ll omit the name of the agency, but there was a New York agency run by a brash narcissist, specializing in publicity and big-name opera singers, and he had a fine staff of experienced, loyal, senior agents. Well, then he met a bright young man in a hustler bar who had no experience in the business, but brought him in above the heads of all his much older, experienced staff members, and he bullied them all around. So, the staff all jumped ship and started their own successful agencies, the young up-start eventually moved on, the firm died and so did Mr. Brash-Narcissist.

Allma Own says:

I certainly hope it is not CAMI. It is a systemically, historically corrupt organization.

Jeffrey Biegel says:

2050: artists will be their own corporation, have a lawyer for their contracts, tweak contract templates for each engagement and have separate but connected salespersons specializing in online booking strategically located globally, depending on how many markets the artist wishes to perform in. AI will create press releases and send out electronically, AI Assistant will schedule interviews.