By Jackie Minton
The end of the semester is here, yet again. You would think by now I’d have learned to get used to this rhythm (after being in school for close to two decades!) but alas—I have not. It always seems to catch me by surprise! Over the handful of months I have spent here at Olivia Management, however, I have learned quite a bit about the industry, working with a team, and well, myself. Here are a few nuggets of wisdom I have gleaned from my time as an intern. I hope they are good lessons (or reminders) for you, too.
A photo from my visit to the Library of Congress this semester, Spring Break 2020.
Organization is a worthy struggle.
The Olivia Management team has inspired me to reevaluate how I work on tasks. They spend a notable amount of time, energy, and brain power on the front end to set up processes that help their world go around in the future. From watching their approach first hand, I have learned that if a task seems overwhelming, it probably simply hasn’t been processed into manageable steps. Organizational work at the beginning may seem tedious, but it is worth the reward!
Don’t put up a wall where there isn’t one.
Why can’t a coloring book be a merch item? Why have we drawn lines where there needn't be any? Creativity is just as necessary, if not more so, on the business side of things. I hope to take this perspective into my own career as an artist and as an entrepreneur.
One simply does not stop learning.
Not only does the music industry grow and change everyday, but so do our goals. Admitting that there is more to learn, is only the first step. Make time to research what interests you, listen to podcasts that inspire you, and seek out knowledge from those closest to you. Don’t be afraid of the unknown! That open landscape is an exciting place full of possibilities.
Humility is powerful.
Olivia Management’s founder Erin Anderson quietly teaches this invaluable lesson to all of those close to her. She makes a point to listen, consider others’ perspectives, and voice gratitude, not simply for her clients, but for everyone that walks through her office door. Being on the receiving end of her respect (even as an intern) was such a powerful reminder for me: humility doesn’t simply move mountains, it moves hearts. Living in the light of humility is a grounding gift, not just for yourself but for all you encounter.
Saying goodbye is never easy.
(Especially when the people you’re saying goodbye to are amazing!) I’m thankful for my time with this incredible team and am dually excited for the interns to come that will get to learn from and contribute to Olivia’s future! I look forward to seeing all that is yet to come, both for them and for me.
Photo by Sophie Flemings.
Signing off with a grateful heart - Jackie :)