What Not to do: Traits Set Carpenters Should Avoid Adopting
Touring as a set carpenter comes with unique challenges and opportunities. While the work itself is crucial, your professionalism, attitude, and the way you carry yourself on tour can make or break your reputation in this tight-knit industry.
Many set carpenters forget that being freelance essentially means you’re running your own business. Every decision you make, every interaction you have, and every project you complete contributes to how your "business" is perceived.
Here’s a closer look at the traits and behaviors set carpenters should avoid to ensure a successful and thriving career in touring.
Forgetting You’re a Business Owner
One of the most common mistakes set carpenters make, and indeed all roadies make, is forgetting that they’re freelance contractors, not just employees. This means that everything you do reflects on your business and impacts your future opportunities. Unlike being part of a large company, you are your brand.
Touring is full of other freelancers who operate their own “businesses.” How you act on tour—your work ethic, attitude, and professionalism—becomes your reputation. It’s easy to fall into a mindset where the tour feels like a long-term job with no end in sight. But remember, tours eventually end, and people will remember how you conducted yourself.
Every decision you make should align with the image you want to present. If you want to be known as reliable, skilled, and professional, act accordingly every day, even when the tour feels exhausting. Always think about the long game.
You're not on a tour until you're on it….. and you're only as good as your last tour.
Failing to Take Responsibility
Another trait to avoid is failing to take full responsibility for your role. Even with a lead carpenter guiding the department, your work is ultimately your own responsibility. The lead carpenter isn’t there to micromanage you or push you to meet deadlines—they’re simply the point of contact between the department and production.
Operate as though you are the only carpenter on the tour:
Take initiative. Seek out the information you need rather than waiting for someone to tell you.
Double-check your work without expecting others to do it for you.
Handle your responsibilities with care and attention, as if your entire reputation depends on it (because it does).
Losing Initiative and Professionalism
After a few years in the industry, some carpenters develop the bad habit of slowing down their work pace or cutting corners. They might assume their reputation is strong enough to secure consistent work, or they may no longer feel the same urgency to perform as they once did.
However, this attitude can negatively affect the entire team and the tour. Remember:
Your pace and efficiency impact the bigger picture, not just your tasks.
Working at a high standard consistently isn’t just about getting the job done—it’s about setting an example for others and maintaining your professional reputation.
Even if you feel secure in your career, resist the urge to let complacency creep in. Touring is a collaborative effort, and every team member’s contribution matters.
Overlooking Communication
Poor communication is another pitfall to avoid. Some carpenters expect the lead carpenter or production team to hand them all the information they need, which can be a mistake. Tours often run on tight schedules, and everyone is busy with their own responsibilities.
Instead of asking questions you could answer yourself, take a proactive approach:
Review the tour schedule, plans, and instructions thoroughly.
Anticipate the information you’ll need and seek it out early.
Consider who you communicate any issues with, instead of passing them up the chain unnecessarily.
Clear communication shows professionalism and ensures you’re seen as someone who takes initiative rather than adding to others’ workloads.
Putting the Team at Risk
Losing or forgetting that you’re part of a larger team is another common issue. Working at your own pace without considering the bigger picture can slow down the entire production. It’s important to balance your personal workflow with the needs of the team and the overall schedule.
Even when the pressure is on, focus on:
Supporting your teammates.
Being aware of how your work impacts others.
Maintaining a positive attitude, even during challenging moments.
No one wants to work with someone who creates extra stress for the team.
Touring life is demanding, but it’s also incredibly rewarding when approached with the right mindset. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can build a reputation as a professional, reliable, and skilled set carpenter.
Remember, the way you conduct yourself today will influence your opportunities tomorrow. Stay focused, take initiative, and always act in a way that reflects the standards and values you want your business to represent. Tours come and go, but your reputation will stick with you for years to come.
