Negotiating Interview with Kivoli Thomas of On Wax Magazine

I had the pleasure of interviewing Kivoli Thomas, the Publisher, Founder, and Editor-in-Chief of Onwaxmagazine.com. On Wax Magazine is an online music magazine that covers a broad range of up and coming  as well as seasoned celebrity artists. I asked her a few questions regarding negotiation deals for artists interviews. 

What would you recommend a future Entertainment Negotiator to do in regards to negotiating deals and contracts?

1.     Do your homework- Don’t assume anything when you are negotiating. Do your homework and find out everything you need to know. Fill in as many gaps to questions as you can beforehand.

2.     Be Informative- Make sure that you provide as much information to help the artist understand as to why you want them to take the time to sign an interview contract.  Make him/her feel appreciated, as if you are honored for them taking the time to negotiate the deals of the agreement.

3.     Get An Opinion- In order to get what you want out of a negotiation you must make the other person feel as if they have a say so. Artists are sensitive, so they need to have some type of input in their interview process regarding music analysis. Assure the artist that you are looking after his or her best interest.

4.     Exude positive Vibes.  Make the artists feel important. Like you need them more than they need you, but in a sense you both really can benefit from each other. Like I said, artists are sensitive. My magazine is all about interviewing the artist in a positive light and getting to know his or her success story. Make the artist feel like the interview is going to benefit them as being seen as a positive role model in today's entertainment industry.  Sn. Questions that ask for someone’s opinion not only provide knowledge, but also indicate that you are interested in what that person has to say.

5.     Come to An Agreement- Not all artists will agree to be interviewed but if  you are a good negotiator, once that initial negotiation happens, most will accept your offer. You have to make sure that there is always some type of middle ground met for both you and the artist. How can you both benefit from the artist interview? Once that agreement is sealed, do not go back on your negotiating terms. If all goes as planned, the artist may just put in a good word for you and more people will be interested in your magazine and articles. Regardless, keep things respectful and negotiated to the best of your ability.

Reference: Onwaxmagazine.com