Are we really in the customer service business? I thought I worked in the arts.

Why is it that so many non- profits, especially performing and visual arts organizations, create arcane rules that frustrate the experience for the customer? No – you cannot exchange your ticket! No – you cannot bring your drink into the theatre. No – our museum is not open after 5pm! Now, once the performance begins, Read More …

Nationally recognized arts leader Steven Libman to join Atlanta Ballet as CAO

Atlanta Ballet president and C.E.O. Arturo Jacobus announced during its annual meeting on July 29 that veteran arts leader Steven Libman will join the organization as chief advancement officer effective August 25. Libman was hand-picked to fill the newly created position and brings more than 30 years of national arts management experience to Atlanta Ballet. Read More …

Why Not for Profits SHOULD Pay employees better!

I’m not sure when the dangerous trend started that gave credence to the belief that non-profit organizations should pay poverty wages. Having successfully run non-profit performing arts organizations for over thirty years, I can attest to the benefit gained, output generated and overall improvement in morale when competitive wages and benefits are offered to employees. Read More …

Transparency and Authenticity in the Arts

Often I ask colleagues and other arts administrators how they handle the dissemination of their strategic plan. How do they involve the community? And the response is always the same, “Well, we make sure that our staff, board and major institutional donors all received copies.” And when I ask, “And how do you involve the Read More …

The Dignity of the Job Search Part II

Recently I proposed a “Job Applicant’s Bill of Rights,” calling on potential employers to treat applicants with dignity and respect. Now I’d like to add candor and realistic expectations to the list. Sure, employers enjoy a buyer’s market today, but being honest about compensation and experience benefits all sides. Too often, employers ask for the Read More …

Steven Libman’s New Radio Show – The Voice of the Performing Arts Begins March 30th

A new locally produced weekly talk show on University of Indianapolis public radio station WICR-FM/HD will explore issues in the arts and arts education. Voice of the Performing Arts debuts at 1 p.m. Saturday at 88.7 FM and online at WICRonline.org. The one-hour program is hosted by Steven Libman, veteran arts administrator and former CEO Read More …

It’s time for a job applicants’ Bill of Rights

“Dear Applicant, we regret to inform you….” I’m a professional. I have a name. But like new college graduates and those long in the job market, I have found that employers show little respect for the qualifications of “applicants” and the effort demanded of them. What happened to simple business etiquette? Am I wrong to Read More …