Strategies for Securing More Gigs as a Performer and Entertainer
The journey of becoming a successful performer or entertainer is a mix of creativity, networking, and business acumen. To land more gigs, one must understand not only how to entertain but also how to appeal to the business side of the venues that will host you. This involves understanding your target audience, providing a reliable guarantee of attendance, and negotiating favorable financial terms. Here are several crucial strategies to help you secure more gigs.
Appealing to the Demographic Patronizing the Venue
The first and most critical step in securing gigs is aligning your act with the demographic that frequents the venue you are pitching to. For instance, if you’re a performer who specializes in a dance routine, consider a club or nightclub where young adults are the main patrons. Similarly, if you are a jazz singer, a jazz bar or small jazz club would be the ideal venue. Understanding your audience's preferences and expectations can significantly increase your chances of success.
When approaching a venue, be honest and present your act as an attractive proposition for the patrons. Highlight the unique selling points of your performance that will resonate with their demographic. If you can provide evidence or testimonials of past successful performances, it will enhance your proposal and improve your chances of being booked.
Guaranteeing a Reliable Audience
A key factor in securing gigs is your ability to guarantee a certain level of attendance. This requires you to have a firm understanding of your fan base and their habits. If you claim to bring in 75 people, but your last five gigs averaged over a hundred attendees, be prepared to back it up. Vendors and venues are often hesitant about risks, so showing concrete evidence of past success is crucial.
It's important to recognize that not all venues prioritize the same level of guaranteed attendance. Smaller venues might be more willing to take a chance, especially if they typically have a lower attendance on specific nights. However, they are more likely to ask for more concrete proof. Larger venues, on the other hand, may prefer more standardized guarantees.
Negotiating Favorable Financial Terms
Once you’ve established that your act is a good fit for the venue and you have provided solid evidence of past performance, it’s time to discuss the financial terms. This is where creativity can come into play. Unlike a standard service contract, you can negotiate terms that provide benefits for both you and the venue.
For example, you can propose performance fees that escalate based on the level of attendance you guarantee. If you guarantee, say, 75 people, you can receive a base fee. If the attendance exceeds expectations, you can earn additional fees or bonuses. Similarly, if the venue doesn't reach the guaranteed number of attendees, you might agree to accept a smaller fee or even agree to perform for free.
Another strategy is to consider the value of exposure. Promote the venue through your social media channels and network to attract more attendees. If you can bring in a larger audience, the venue might be willing to offer better terms in return for your marketing efforts.
Conclusion
In the competitive world of performing arts, it's not just about the quality of your performance; it's also about understanding the business aspects of venue management. By aligning your act with the venue's demographic, guaranteeing a reliable audience, and negotiating flexible financial terms, you can increase your chances of securing more gigs. Remember, a successful performance is a partnership, and striking the right balance between business and art is key to long-term success.