Make No Small Plans

Im in SXSW this week in Austin! I was last year three years ago in 2013. In that time we have seen the advent of Snapchat, Periscope, trap music, Under Armour.  What will be the next big trend and brand?

Major Lazer and Kendrick Lemar to break out stars of the festival are now leading festival headliners. Who is the next big thing in music?

Im looking forward to my time here and being inspired by new trends in music and innovation.

Here is an interview I gave Stop Press at the start of the week.

Stay tuned for the update!

• What do you do in the States?

I have spent some time in LA enroute to SXSW. Its great to be able to follow some of the leading trends plus network with my industry contacts in these leading entertainment hubs. Its the down time of the season for our festival Rhythm and Vines so time to get out and about in search of new ideas for our festival business. I am also responsible for booking the bands and artists and getting in a position to make offers on this years touring acts. SXSW is the perfect place to scout and network with agents and other promoters.

• Why did you decide to make the move to the US? Would you recommend it to other Kiwi creative types? 

The access to inspiration is immense.  The market here is diverse and infinite. It is great to flex the creative muscle and see what opportunities could work in either market. Attending SXSW provides access to leading industry executives, movers and shakers. In my field this means artists, agents, and other promoters that are key to the future of building my business.

• What are some of the core differences between American and Kiwi work culture?

Being forward and more direct works well. Being confident. Not being scared to highlight your strengths and be proud of what you do and achieve. 

The competition here in the US is intense. There is always someone nipping at your heels and ready to take your place. At home you can become complacent, although the size of the market encourages you to keep innovating.

• What are some of the trends that will define marketing and advertising in 2016?   

 One for our business is how to share content. We spend majority of the year trying to recreate our event experience to help encourage people to attend. How we can share the experience using technology from snapchat to film to brand look and feel. I learnt this morning Foo Fighters doubled their attendance via a private made film called Sonic Highways. It gave them access to new audiences. Its about trying to find new ways to communicate your product and experience to achieve your goals.

• Do Kiwis have to get better at taking risks and innovating?

Yes of course. And supporting those that do. We need more positivity and effectiveness in our dealings, goals setting - everything we do. Make no small plans is one of my mantras for 2016.

• What are some of the key takeaways from this year's event?

Anything is possible and you are only limited by your imagination. Networks are key and never be scared to put your self out of your comfort zone.