When You Miss the Beat
We’ve all experienced this. You try to launch a product or service or set up a class, event, or gig…and no one shows or signs up. Somehow you missed the beat.
It’s like when you’re playing drums and your rhythm is off. If you catch it in time, you can correct it. If not, you’re left scratching your head. In terms of a launch, gig, class, or event, you may wonder if it was the wrong thing, the wrong audience, the wrong time, or all of the above.
Good intentions
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve offered classes that people expressed an interest in but then didn’t show up. This has happened with both in-person events and virtual as well. Back in the day when I used to book bands, there were shows (concerts) I set up with a lineup of some really talented young bands. Instead of a packed house of hundreds of people, they played to an audience of 20-30 people. Yeah, that hurts.
The problem is that you can do all the preparation in the world and your heart could be in the right place, but you can’t predict what people will go for. Or can you?
Knowing your audience
If you’re putting your services or talents out there and all you’re hearing is crickets, it could be because….you’re not attracting the right people. There are generally three categories:
- Instant fans: These are the people who get you and want to follow you and support you right away.
- Intrigued: These are the folks that are curious but not yet convinced. They’ll test the waters but they’re still not sure.
- Tire kickers: These are those who want everything for free. They generally don’t have enough interest or the budget to move forward or just don’t value what you do. These include those who want to book you for free “for the exposure.”
It can take a lot of research and trial and error to find people in groups 1 and 2. Very rarely do things instantly take off. Building brand awareness also takes time. It has taken me years to define my brand and my niche. I realized that you don’t have to try to appeal to everyone.
Invariably, just when I’m ready to throw in the towel, the Holy Spirit gives me a reminder or even a vision to show me what path I need to be on and who is waiting for what I have to offer. Often, it’s not what or who I expected.
Keep the faith and keep the beat!
Things will eventually become clear but you may need some help. My version of drum therapy not only can help you reduce anxiety, stress, and ADHD issues, but it can help you get really clear about what you need to be doing in this stage of your life.
I include affirmations, deep breathing, customized exercises, and some mentoring. Did I mention that US clients also receive a beautiful djembe drum in the color of their choice? It’s not a drum lesson. It’s a fun way to help you focus, feel better, find your joy, and boost your faith!
Click here if you’d like to set up a time to chat and find out more!
Dori Staehle lives in the Raleigh, NC area and is a certified drum therapist, Toca Percussion artist, author, speaker, ADHD specialist, and owner of Next Stage Drumming. Dori helps Christian women and teens focus, feel better, find their joy, and boost their faith. She also offers classes for seniors and special needs, as well as inspiring and fun events! Click here to schedule a call to find out more!
