I was recently in MPLS, attending a memorial for a fellow Sound Guy, Tom Cesario, who was not only a friend, but an invaluable source of Sound Advice, accumulated through years of experience.  Gathered that evening were a majority of the twin cities best live sound engineers.  It was during the drive back to Dunn County that I realized a common theme connecting most of the evening's conversations.  So, we'll call this "Sound Guy Advice".

Bands:  You can't have a live music club without bands.  Any good club not only accepts this simple fact, but actually treats hired musicians with respect. Likewise, bands need to respect the venue and staff.  And that, as FRANK ZAPPA was fond of saying, "is the CRUX of the biscuit". RESPECT.  I'm not saying kiss ass.  What I'm saying is: SHOW UP ON TIME. If you're running late, call the venue and let them know.  When you show up at the club introduce yourself and ask for the SOUND GUY (or gal).  This is the person who should be able to answer most of your questions (ie: load in, gear placement, parking, sound check, set times, dressing room, food, pay and of course, drink tickets/tokens).  Ideally your Sound Person is familiar or at least pleasant.  If not, for whatever reason, still be professional. 

Sound Check:  If there is sound check, you are expected to be there.  This is not a chance for your to practice or write a new tune.  Sound Check is when you figure out how and where you'll fit your gear on the stage, how many mics are needed, amp levels,  monitor and stage mixes.  Also, the Sound Person gets to make notes/adjustments for later.  When the Sound Person is satisfied, the check is over.  Clear the stage quickly and put your gear where told (not in front of the exit or bathroom or on the dance floor).  Find out when you are expected to be on stage and how long the stage is yours.

Set Time:  As your set time approaches ready your gear.  Assemble drums, tune guitars, check batteries, be dressed, have your drinks, use the bathroom and check in with the Sound Person.  As soon as the stage is ready, set up quickly.  A 45 minute set generally means 45 minutes of stage time.  If you take a long time to set up, you're cutting into your playing time. When the Sound Person says 10 more minutes, or one more song, DO NOT start a 25 minute medley or Freebird.  When your set is finished, clear the stage immediately.  DO NOT go for a drink, smoke, chat with fans or sell merch from the stage. Pack up your gear and put it where told or load out.  There should always be at least one band member who can inventory the gear.  It REALLY helps to have your gear marked. Don't take other band's gear or gear that belongs to the club. 

Pay:  Most clubs don't pay out until the end of the evening.  Before you play a gig, you should have a good idea of the terms.  This will make the business end go much smoother. Be patient and gracious.  Whether you packed the place or not, being easy to work with does wonders.  As you leave, thank the staff and other bands and do a "dummy check". LASTLY, thank the SOUND PERSON.  A good Sound Person is a temporary member of your band.  If it was a good experience for both of you, odds are you'll do it again.

SOUND TIP #1-Sticks, Picks, Strings & Batteries.  Always have extras with you.