Thursday, April 12, 2012

Job Shadow

Donna Thomas- Part Owner/Pageant Consultant

Designing Diva’s, Inc. Mesquite, Nevada

1. What are the skills that are most important for a position in this field?

Training in performance ediquette most profound experience is personal participation in competitions and pageants. My degree in Vocal Pedagogy is my second valuable training I use. Organizational skills are a must as well as knowledge of sound equipment, staging and lighting.

2. How would you describe the working atmosphere and the people with whom you work?

My partner, Diane, has been in this business for over 30 years. She is transitioning to where she can retire within a year. Right now, even though our relationship is strong, she is slowly phasing herself out of the business. Other than Diane, my clients vary depending on the job; how long it will last and how many individuals are participating. I spend a lot of time with the youth and college students. High school students are harder to crack because they are more interested on what is trendy as apposed to what is tactful. College students who are competing are more likely to cooperate because they are closer to making life changing decisions.

3. What are the salary ranges?

I charge for each hour I attend a rehearsal. My consultation is free, and after that I charge $25 an hour. My workshops include a 2-day banquette and seminar and I charge $99 per person.

4. How can I evaluate whether or not I have the necessary skills for a position such as yours?

If you an approachable person you are more likely to give good criticism. Also, it is important to approach every client with a fresh slate without comparing or judging. Self motivation and self discipline is imperative. Schedules vary, so don’t let ‘dry spells’ turn into a reason to stop working. Even without projects, it’s important to remain engaged in research and study within the entertainment industry.

5. What are the rewards aside from fringe benefits?

Being a part of a positive program that promotes greatness in an individual is rewarding. Even though doctors help to save lives, I’m glad I don’t have to see sick people every day. That would get me down. I get to work with people who are working on self improvement to find a better place in life.

6. What about your job creates the most stress?

When I am hired as a consultant, and in the end, after hard work and dedication, the client decides to throw all the efforts out the window. They believe that their ideas are better and the ultimately don’t succeed as they thought they would. It’s really stressful to accept a paycheck from people who didn’t use the product, and ultimately failed in what they sought to improve.

7. How are you different than your competitors?

I specialize in Vocals, however, I am well versed in dance, instrumental, presents and composer, public speaking and personal interviews. My competitors have a staff of people that can end up conflicting. I am a one man band, so to speak, and that comes with my clients most likely saving money and saving time and receiving even better results.

8. What is the most desirable quality or most exciting part of your career?

Every project is different. Every client brings something new, therefore, I have an opportunity to meet extraordinary people, be involved in positive events and I manage to learn something new with every person I work with. Another quality I enjoy is keeping abreast with the latest entertainment trends. Clients will say to me, “Have you ever seen or heard _____? I want to sound something like that.” And I need to know exactly to what or whom they are referring. This keeps my job and exciting and fresh.

My overall impression of Donna was that she is a credible and experienced professional. I didn’t realize that this occupation really existed. We discussed Diane’s retirement and after Donna looked into my resume she asked me to perform a few numbers for her. We started discussing the void she has been feeling while Diane retires and how a new partner is sorely needed. I am extremely interested in this position and will pursue this position in Designing Diva’s Inc. undoubtedly. I could contribute some qualities that I think Donna might be lacking in terms of creating a website, which I was shocked she doesn’t have, as well as reaching out beyond the Mesquite and St. George Utah area. I would be willing to travel even to Salt Lake to expand the client base.

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