Soundchecks, Changeovers and Setlists

Inspired by Chris's piece I thought I'd throw in a few more "obvious once you think about it" tips.

Soundchecks

Sounchecks are normally done in reverse order. Sometimes the order gets mixed up but the first band on will always soundcheck last. This way no equipment gets moved and the sound desk is set exactly as it was at the end of soundcheck.

Don't play long songs, you're just wasting everyone’s time; except your own if you are under-rehearsed but that's what rehearsal is for, this is soundcheck.

Play a song which is typical of your set first, most engineers will then only require one or two half songs (intro-verse-chorus idea) to test any other instruments/vocals not used in the first one and fine tune the monitors. Some bands practice, for example, going straight into choruses to test backing vocal mics without having to play a full song.

Changeovers

Since normally there's only 10-15 minutes to change over equipment, you need to be slick. This normally includes having to wait for the other band to clear their equipment first so you have less time than this to set up.
Someone in the band who doesn't have much to do could help out the drummer for instance (I think it's illegal for lead vocalists to do this ).
The key is to get on and offstage as quickly as possible. Try to pack your equipment offstage, if there's room. If you have a few effects, think about making a pedal board which you can prepare beforehand so it's just a matter of two connections.
Being able to change over quickly will help you when soundcheck time is short as well.

If you're leaving your equipment at the venue (you did check when you confirmed the gig didn't you?) remember:
Your equipment will not be insured, unless you insure it yourself. If it walks/gets damaged, the only person paying out will be you.

Setlists

Find out how long you're expected to play and stick to it. Knowing roughly how long your songs are and having rough 30 and 45 minutes sets worked out is good preparation. Overplaying your set time is not showing respect to other bands on the bill and may lead to someone having to cut their set short=no friends made.

Start strong and finish strong. This is an almost unbreakable rule when playing to new audiences.

I'll put up any pearls of wisdom from the comments below here.

Drummers

My top tip would be to talk to the other bands. Sort out what you plan to use and what you may need to share. Especially drummers, as it's most likely you'll be sharing the same kit. You'll probably be expected to be using your own snare, cymbals and pedal but it's a good idea to talk to the other drummers about the rest of the kit if you're going to be moving/removing toms, stands etc. It's good to talk. (Frosty Jack)