I just listened to the three Bruce Baker CDs, for my own benefit,
and to write a review for the Chicago Metal Arts Guild newsletter. I
think they are excellent, and well worth owning (rather than
borrowing) because it will take several times listening to them to
absorb the material, especially about selling. This is the hardest
part of our job, for me, and I suspect for a lot of us. Well,
accounting is pretty tough, too, but that’s another matter.
Some of what Bruce suggests is going to be very tough to put into
practice, but a lot of it will just take remembering to give it a
try. One point that I especially like, so I thought I would share,
is a response to disparaging remarks. He says he likes to say, “It
isn’t for everyone.” It essentially agrees with them, in a way,
while challenging them to maybe want to be part of the special group
that your work is for. I’m definately adding this idea to my
arsenal!
Noel
I just listened to the three Bruce Baker CDs, it will take several
times listening to them to absorb the material, especially about
selling. This is the hardest part of our job, for me, and I suspect
for a lot of us.
I listen to them in the van on the way to shows. That way much of it
is fresh in my mind when I get there.
He says he likes to say, "It isn't for everyone." It essentially
agrees with them, in a way, while challenging them to maybe want to
be part of the special group that your work is for.
The thing he said that really made me think was simply ‘smile’. So
many times at shows I see artists sitting with their noses in a book,
or scowling because the show isn’t going well for them. And I notice
that a lot of people avoid those booths! I consciously try to keep a
relaxed and pleasant expression on my face, even if the show sucks.
And I watch the crowd go by, rather than reading. People passing by
usually at least glance at the booth. If they make eye contact with
me, they will often at least take the time to nod or say hi as they
pass if they don’t come in to look around. And if they slow down
enough to say hi, that’s an opening for a conversation that might
turn into a sale.
Kathy Johnson
Feathered Gems Pet Jewelry
One point that I especially like, so I thought I would share, is a
response to disparaging remarks. He says he likes to say, "It isn't
for everyone." It essentially agrees with them, in a way, while
challenging them to maybe want to be part of the special group that
your work is for.
I love this line! I use it all the time at shows, especially when
people comment on the cost of my work. After explaining that all of
my labor is done in the states, and all jewelry is made to order, if
they still aren’t swayed, I nicely reply “Well, my jewelry is not
for everyone”. Which is soooo true.
Nobody has a product that is for everyone.
That line seems to take the pressure off of all parties concerned.
The Bruce Baker CD’s are awesome! I got the set of three and they
are all great.
-Amery
The thing he said that really made me think was simply 'smile'. So
many times at shows I see artists sitting with their noses in a
book, or scowling because the show isn't going well for them.
Absolutely! Attitude is so important.
Another trick I use from Bruce is to look busy. Straighten, windex,
rearrange… fake it! Look busy so the buyers don’t feel like
they’re gonna be pounced on the moment they come in the booth.
Amery
That line seems to take the pressure off of all parties concerned.
The Bruce Baker CD's are awesome! I got the set of three and they
are all great.
When I heard Bruce give a speech and he used that line “It’s not for
everyone,” he said it in a snooty way, not at all in a take the
pressure off way. Though I see how it could be used that way.
Elaine
Elaine Luther
Metalsmith, Certified PMC Instructor
http://www.CreativeTextureTools.com ™
Hard to Find Tools for Metal Clay