Hello fellow comedians and those considering the art of stand-up comedy! If you're looking to secure booking opportunities and make a lasting impression, your initial contact with talent bookers is crucial. Today, we'll be sharing some best practices on how to introduce yourself and inquire about booking opportunities effectively. Let's dive in!
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First, let’s start with a few “No brainers” (most relate to spelling things correctly).
- - Be kind
- - Make sure you know the person’s name and spell it right
- - Know and spell the name of the event or show correctly
- - Use spell check! Spell check your entire email. Seriously, it’s FREE on Word or use the FREE version of Grammarly https://www.grammarly.com/
1. Be Professional and Polite:
Maintain a courteous and professional tone throughout your inquiry. Avoid slang, excessive emojis, or overly informal language. Professionalism and basic kindness says a lot about a person and respect goes a long way.
2. Craft a Professional Introduction:
Start your email or message with a brief and engaging introduction. State your name, that you are a comedian, and what specifically you’re inquiring about.
3. Personalize Your Approach:
Tailor your inquiry to the specific event or venue you're reaching out to. Mention any previous connections, mutual acquaintances, or recent performances that showcase your relevance to their audience.
4. Highlight Your Achievements:
Include a concise list of your notable achievements, such as past performances, awards, collaborations, or media coverage. This builds credibility and showcases your experience.
5. Provide Relevant Links:
Include links to your professional website, social media profiles, and any video clips that showcase your talent. A visual representation of your performance style can make a significant impact.
6. Show Enthusiasm for the Opportunity:
Express your genuine interest in performing at their venue or event. Explain why you believe your act would resonate with their audience and contribute to the overall experience.
7. Include Contact Information:
Make it easy for bookers to reach out to you. Provide your contact information, including email, phone number, and social media handles, so they can easily get in touch.
8. Be Clear About Availability:
If you have specific dates or periods when you're available for booking, mention them in your inquiry. This helps bookers quickly assess if your schedule aligns with their needs. Making a booker go back and forth with a series of emails to get your availability takes up unnecessary time. Be proactive and you make it easy for them to book you - the more likely they are to do so.
9. Keep It Concise:
Bookers often receive numerous inquiries, so keep your message concise and to the point. Highlight the most important details without overwhelming them with information.
10. Follow Up Appropriately:
If you don't receive a response within a reasonable timeframe, consider sending a polite follow-up email. This demonstrates your persistence and commitment to the opportunity. Please note that a reasonable time frame depends on the situation. Typically, allow at least a minimum of 24 to 48 hours for a response. Remember, this is business and not a social call. Also, if you send an email, there is no need to send additional texts, Facebook messages and DMs on Instagram. Find the neutral zone and stay away from extremes bordering on stalker-like behavior. Choose one method and stick with it.
11. Research the Venue/Event:
Familiarize yourself with the venue or event you're reaching out to. Reference specific aspects that align with your performance style or values to show that you've done your homework. If you’re requesting a spot on someone’s show, be sure to know the correct name of the show, venue, and it’s a huge plus if you have actually attended before.
12. Express Flexibility:
While it's great to have a clear vision, be open to discussing adjustments based on the venue's requirements or event theme. Flexibility can make you a more appealing choice. If you’re heading into town and are asking for a last minute spot, don’t be offended when they offer you 5 minutes instead of 10. Similarly, don’t be offended by the running order. The more demands you make the more likely the booker says no. They may have never seen you before so giving you 10 minutes is risky. On the flip side, if the booker asks you to fill a longer time slot than you’re used to, you better come prepared or let them know you don’t have it..
As you reach out to talent bookers, remember that your introduction is your first impression. By crafting a professional, personalized, and engaging inquiry, you'll increase your chances of securing booking opportunities that align with your artistic goals. Keep refining your approach, and best of luck in your journey to captivating stages around the world!
Written by
Plauzzable