Ok. Normally I have some cool advice or perspective to give you. But today, this email is all about me. But don’t click away. There are still some pretty neat lessons and perceptions.
Here we go…
First, last week I sent you an email telling you all about my new EXPERIMENT. I’m in the middle of building and marketing a brand new show. I’m posting, step by step, each action I’m taking. You can follow the progress and the strategies on my Facebook Fan Page or Twitter.
If you're interested in seeing how I do it, follow me at the links below:
Twitter: @johnabrams1 or go to www.twitter.com/johnabrams1
Facebook: click here or go to www.facebook.com/rebelentertainers
I encourage you to comment on any post that interests you.
Next, on the big Q & A a couple of months ago, Rebel Entertainer David Baker (www.twistedideasballoons.com) wrote:
“Hey John,
Cool idea! Uhh, lets see... what was the best show you've ever put on, and what made
it a success?
David”
I said you could ask something personal and you did. The answer is kinda tough. After performing literally thousands of shows, I'm trying to think back at which were the MOST successful.
A few stand out in my mind.
My first one, of course, because it got me off my butt and started this whole crazy career.
But there are a few others. One of my favorites was one of the first magic shows I ever did. It was a 6th birthday party at a pizza place. The reason it sticks with me is because years later I befriended the family of the birthday boy. After seeing my show he started studying magic. He's now a teenager and is very serious about his magic. I inspired him to create and follow his life dream. I think that's pretty cool.
Financial success?
One of them wasn't a show. It was a showcase. In one 7-minute performance I booked 60 shows. And most of those still repeat year after year. I was new in the area and nobody had ever seen me before. With that one performance I was able to dominate that market for many years.
Another financial success was when someone saw me at a company picnic. They were from the Sheriffs Association of Las Vegas. They booked me after seeing the show and have hired me back 10 years in row. And it's a hefty pay. Not too bad.
Over the years, there have been so many laughing children, happy families and educated students and teachers that it's difficult to pick out more. But success to me is making this world a better place. And if I can do that, make some money, and support my family in the mean time, then it's just gravy.
I try to do that every day.
Email me your successes. I'll be happy to put them on my blog.
-John Abrams
Rebel Entertainer and Success
www.rebelentertainers.com
www.facebook.com/rebelentertainer
www.twitter.com/johnabrams1
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
How to get HONEST feedback
Still a few lingering questions from the big Q & A. Rebel Entertainer Justin Morris asked:
"How do I get honest feedback from people who have seen my show?"
Great question Justin. Like most of us, you want your show to be the best that it can be. And that's a great quality.
There are a number of ways to do this. Of course the first thing to do is to invite a trusted friend to see it.
They may be able to give small pointers on ways to improve it. But as we all know, your friends probably aren't going to be brutally honest with you.
Let's face it, all of our Moms think we're the best.
The second way is to send your client (or your audience in some markets) a program or show assessment form. This form will ask your client to give you honest feedback on how you did. You can even have a section on "in your opinion, what could I do to improve my service to you".
You gotta be careful with this one also. Don't believe everything you read. Remember, every client has their own agenda. And THEIR opinion is from THEIR perspective.
Quick story about that. I had been doing a particular routine for years. In the first program assessment I ever received back, a customer said that she was "terribly offended" by that routine. Well, I was devastated. That routine was the cornerstone of my entire show.
So for the next few weeks I asked clients if they were offended by that routine. Most said that it was their favorite part of the show. And, after hundreds of other assessments, I never got that comment again.
So ya gotta be careful. If you get the same comment over and over, then ya' gotta listen.
Lastly. Hire a nonpartisan professional. For magicians, there are a number of people that offer workshops to help tighten your show. Joanie Spina & Jeff McBride are very popular and I've only heard great things about them.
I personally do program reviews for my Rebel Entertainer clients and have been lucky enough to work with a lot of wonderful performers. Send me a personal email if you're interested in hearing more about the program (john@rebelentertainers.com).
Double lastly, take industry workshops. All jugglers, clowns, magicians, dancers etc have conventions that offer workshops for just this sort of thing. Go to the conventions and check it out.
If you take one, two or all of these steps, you will see your show take off.
Looking forward to hearing about your progress,
I welcome your comments.
- John Abrams
Rebel Entertainer and Program Assessor
www.RebelEntertainers.com
www.Facebook.com/rebelentertainer
or follow me on Twitter @johnabrams1
"How do I get honest feedback from people who have seen my show?"
Great question Justin. Like most of us, you want your show to be the best that it can be. And that's a great quality.
There are a number of ways to do this. Of course the first thing to do is to invite a trusted friend to see it.
They may be able to give small pointers on ways to improve it. But as we all know, your friends probably aren't going to be brutally honest with you.
Let's face it, all of our Moms think we're the best.
The second way is to send your client (or your audience in some markets) a program or show assessment form. This form will ask your client to give you honest feedback on how you did. You can even have a section on "in your opinion, what could I do to improve my service to you".
You gotta be careful with this one also. Don't believe everything you read. Remember, every client has their own agenda. And THEIR opinion is from THEIR perspective.
Quick story about that. I had been doing a particular routine for years. In the first program assessment I ever received back, a customer said that she was "terribly offended" by that routine. Well, I was devastated. That routine was the cornerstone of my entire show.
So for the next few weeks I asked clients if they were offended by that routine. Most said that it was their favorite part of the show. And, after hundreds of other assessments, I never got that comment again.
So ya gotta be careful. If you get the same comment over and over, then ya' gotta listen.
Lastly. Hire a nonpartisan professional. For magicians, there are a number of people that offer workshops to help tighten your show. Joanie Spina & Jeff McBride are very popular and I've only heard great things about them.
I personally do program reviews for my Rebel Entertainer clients and have been lucky enough to work with a lot of wonderful performers. Send me a personal email if you're interested in hearing more about the program (john@rebelentertainers.com).
Double lastly, take industry workshops. All jugglers, clowns, magicians, dancers etc have conventions that offer workshops for just this sort of thing. Go to the conventions and check it out.
If you take one, two or all of these steps, you will see your show take off.
Looking forward to hearing about your progress,
I welcome your comments.
- John Abrams
Rebel Entertainer and Program Assessor
www.RebelEntertainers.com
www.Facebook.com/rebelentertainer
or follow me on Twitter @johnabrams1
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Advertising on Craigs List
During the big Q & A, Cheryl Ferguson (www.bayareastars.com) asked:
"Hello John,
Craigs List is very popular here for a myriad of things. Advertising in the "events" section under "services" is a place where a lot of entertainers have their free ad. Your ad expires in a week, so you have to put it up again.
What are your thoughts on the content of the different ads? Does it really make a difference?
Happy Stars to You,
Cheryl Ferguson"
I don't personally advertise on Craigslist, but I know a number of entertainers that do. They seem to get mixed response. I've never heard anybody saying that it's the end all be all. But certainly, if you can book a few gigs with a free listing, by all means do it (as long as it's worth your time).
The Nuts and Bolts - First, you need to recognize the nature of the Craigslist beast. It's a place where people go to get DISCOUNTS AND DEALS. This is super important (In fact, I just bought a stand up piano for only $200). If you're a high end entertainer, Craigslist is not the place to be. If you do have prices that will work with this market, then it may work for you.
Lots of folks will just say something like "Face Painting". I suggest something more enticing like "THE VERY BEST DEAL BY THE MOST EXCLUSIVE FACE PAINTERS IN TOWN".
Remember the nature of the beast.
Remember the nature of the beast.
Also, all caps seems to stand out.
Next, use the text and photo in the ad to drive them to your website. Don't try to sell your services on the ad itself. Entice them with a "Click here for your SPECIAL CRAIGSLIST DISCOUNT PRICING. Only available for Craigslist customers." or something like that.
Then direct them to your website for the exclusive offer.
That's it. By driving them to your website, you take them away from clicking into any other Craigslist ads.
Also, you have much more room and flexibility on your site than on that small ad.
Try that and tell me how it goes.
-John Abrams
Rebel Entertainer and Fan of Bay Area Stars
www.rebelentertainers.com
www.facebook.com/rebelentertainer
www.twitter.com/johnabrams1
www.rebelentertainers.com
www.facebook.com/rebelentertainer
www.twitter.com/johnabrams1
Monday, April 5, 2010
My twisting line never ends...
Rebel Entertainer Suzy Rush had a question about a situation that I think all clowns, balloon twisters, face painters and close-up magicians run into.
Suzy writes:
"John,
I think my biggest problem is leaving the job on time. The kids always want me to stay and twist more balloons and fix their face paint. Sometimes even the parents push the kids way after I should be gone. How do I say no and have my clients and the kids happy?"
Great question. We've all run into this situation in some form or other.
Before I answer, I will say this. Always exceed their expectations. Offer a lot and deliver more. This will get you booked more often than any other strategy.
That being said, here's your answer:
This answer is two fold really.
First. PUT YOUR OVERTIME IN YOUR CONTRACT.
Your contract should state the amount and time that you and your client have agreed upon. Then, in big bold letters, state your overtime fee. If you really don't want to stay, make sure the overtime fee is above and beyond your regular fee and is charged in 15 minute increments.
Upon booking the show, be sure to tell the client of the overtime fee. (This is also a good marketing position, because they may want to add more time when booking and you'll be able to upsell a higher package).
Then, when you're at the gig and the time comes, and it looks like the children and parents want you longer, be very nice and go to the client and remind them of the overtime clause. Do this BEFORE your time is up. Then let the client make the decision.
You can do this very politely and politically correct.
You can do this very politely and politically correct.
Secondly. Once you establish the "end of the line", post a sign. The sign can read something clever like "This is the end of the line" or "I'm the lucky last customer". Once again, make sure you do this before the time is up.
Hope that helps.
-John Abrams
Rebel Entertainer and Guy that likes to put it in the contractwww.rebelentertainers.com
www.facebook.com/rebelentertainer
www.twitter.com/johnabrams1
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Did you see it?
This one's quick.
I'm a huge fan of the T.V. show The Apprentice. Especially Celebrity Apprentice. If you're not, you should be.
I know that reality shows are not really reality. And that they're cut and spliced to get you to "feel" something about the characters and their situations. But once you sift through The Donald's hair and all that crudola, The Apprentice has HUGE MARKETING LESSONS every single episode.
If you haven't seen it, here's the premise. Contestants have a very short period of time, as a team, to create and implement a tremendously challenging marketing plan for a particular type of business.
In general, the team that makes the most money wins.
That's it.
If you think about it, that's exactly what we, as entertainers, have to do all the time. We have to create the product, create the marketing plan to sell it, then implement the plan to best of our ability.
I've learned so much from this show. It's a free lesson and sometimes even entertaining.
Take a look.
I welcome your comments.
-John Abrams
Rebel Entertainer and Apprentice Watcher
I'm a huge fan of the T.V. show The Apprentice. Especially Celebrity Apprentice. If you're not, you should be.
I know that reality shows are not really reality. And that they're cut and spliced to get you to "feel" something about the characters and their situations. But once you sift through The Donald's hair and all that crudola, The Apprentice has HUGE MARKETING LESSONS every single episode.
If you haven't seen it, here's the premise. Contestants have a very short period of time, as a team, to create and implement a tremendously challenging marketing plan for a particular type of business.
In general, the team that makes the most money wins.
That's it.
If you think about it, that's exactly what we, as entertainers, have to do all the time. We have to create the product, create the marketing plan to sell it, then implement the plan to best of our ability.
I've learned so much from this show. It's a free lesson and sometimes even entertaining.
Take a look.
I welcome your comments.
-John Abrams
Rebel Entertainer and Apprentice Watcher
Oh the Pain!
What's the most painful and scary thing in business? Other than losing all your money or getting stabbed in the eye with a red hot poker?
The most painful process is this:
STARTING
Starting to put together a new show.
Starting a new marketing campaign.
Starting a new job.
STARTING
Starting to put together a new show.
Starting a new marketing campaign.
Starting a new job.
Most people wait their entire lives talking about what they are "going to do" and are simply too frightened of the pain of starting.
It's kinda like a new exercise program.
The first week you're tired and soar and hungry. You may even feel weak. But once you get through that start, things get easier. You can exercise longer. You feel stronger. You're body and mind become stronger.
It's the same way with starting a new show, or new business, or new routine. Once you get through those opening stages, it becomes very easy.
The solution is, of course, to SIMPLY START. But if you really want to get into the psychology of getting started, here's a step by step process that all "SuperAchievers" use.
1.) Figure out what you want to achieve. Write it down.
2.) Figure out what needs to be done to achieve it. Write it down.
3.) Do it.
That's it. It really is as simple as that.
If you need a little kick in the butt to start building that new show you've been thinking about, you're welcome to take a look at my Rebel Entertainer's Show Building Course.
It'll walk you through the process, step by step, using your own talents to create your own sellable show from scratch. It's highly recommended by some of the top names in your field.
Click here to check it out: Rebel Entertainer's Show Building Course
It'll walk you through the process, step by step, using your own talents to create your own sellable show from scratch. It's highly recommended by some of the top names in your field.
Click here to check it out: Rebel Entertainer's Show Building Course
Even if you don't invest in the course, take action. Start that new marketing campain. Put together that new show. Put up that new website. With this new economy we're living in, now's the perfect time.
- John
www.Facebook.com/rebelentertainers
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
THE BEST School Assembly Themes
Rebel Entertainer Bill Klaus asked this question in the big Q & A:
"Hi John,
In your opinion, when putting together a new or first time school program, what kind of program seems to be more accepted by the staff and students and why do you think so?
Bill"
Here's your answer:
The obvious answer is: "A great show". But I guess that's taking the easy way out.
I think you're asking about subject matter. What's the best theme for an assembly program?
That's a good question. Each school district and each state differs. You can find the most POPULAR by going on other School Entertainer's websites and seeing what they offer.
The slam dunk if you want to book a couple of weeks in October is a "No Drug Show". There doesn't seem to be enough good entertainers with that message to go around to all the schools. Science is a big winner if done right. And character is very popular.
But listen to this advice very carefully:
DOING WHAT OTHER'S ARE DOING DOES NOT SEPARATE YOU FROM THE PACK AND WILL NOT KEEP YOU BOOKED YEAR ROUND.
Putting together something original that nobody offers, or approaching a subject in a unique way that nobody else does, will separate you from the pack.
Go to the Board of Education website for your state and look up "State Standards" (ex: Utah State Standards). These are the curriculum that the teachers in your state must teach the students. Choose a subject that may be difficult for the teachers to convey, create a unique show using the talents that only YOU possess, and you'll have a hit.
Make sure you present it in a way that a teacher or other staff member can't.
Also remember that lots of schools do family fun nights. Usually they’re just looking for something fun. Not rocket science but must be super fun. If your program can actually MAKE THE PTA MONEY, it's even better. Actually, I know someone that does an assembly on Rocket Science, but that's a whole 'nother story.
Hope that helps.
- John Abrams
Rebel Entertainer and School Assembly Specialist
www.rebelentertainers.com
www.facebook.com/rebelentertainer
www.twitter.com/johnabrams1
"Hi John,
In your opinion, when putting together a new or first time school program, what kind of program seems to be more accepted by the staff and students and why do you think so?
Bill"
Here's your answer:
The obvious answer is: "A great show". But I guess that's taking the easy way out.
I think you're asking about subject matter. What's the best theme for an assembly program?
That's a good question. Each school district and each state differs. You can find the most POPULAR by going on other School Entertainer's websites and seeing what they offer.
The slam dunk if you want to book a couple of weeks in October is a "No Drug Show". There doesn't seem to be enough good entertainers with that message to go around to all the schools. Science is a big winner if done right. And character is very popular.
But listen to this advice very carefully:
DOING WHAT OTHER'S ARE DOING DOES NOT SEPARATE YOU FROM THE PACK AND WILL NOT KEEP YOU BOOKED YEAR ROUND.
Putting together something original that nobody offers, or approaching a subject in a unique way that nobody else does, will separate you from the pack.
Go to the Board of Education website for your state and look up "State Standards" (ex: Utah State Standards). These are the curriculum that the teachers in your state must teach the students. Choose a subject that may be difficult for the teachers to convey, create a unique show using the talents that only YOU possess, and you'll have a hit.
Make sure you present it in a way that a teacher or other staff member can't.
Also remember that lots of schools do family fun nights. Usually they’re just looking for something fun. Not rocket science but must be super fun. If your program can actually MAKE THE PTA MONEY, it's even better. Actually, I know someone that does an assembly on Rocket Science, but that's a whole 'nother story.
Hope that helps.
- John Abrams
Rebel Entertainer and School Assembly Specialist
www.rebelentertainers.com
www.facebook.com/rebelentertainer
www.twitter.com/johnabrams1
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Your Price is Outrageous!
Hilarious Clown Eddy Rice Jr. wrote to me during the big Q & A (check out his website for the visuals alone. It's very fun. http://www.flappytclown.com/)
He told me a story about a crazy potential client that was referred to him by a friend and asked how I'd have handled it. Here's the edited version:
-------
Thanks John. Your articles have helped a lot.
Here’s the story. I was referred by a close friend to a person that I was told wanted my services.
I called the potential client and told her what I had to offer and when we got to the price she said “That is outrageous! I've been hiring entertainers for years and your price is ridiculous!”
After telling her the benefits of my services and how I guaranteed that everyone would have a great time, she said 'Well, we're just going to buy a costume from China and have a friend put it on!'
On and on she went trying to get MORE services for LESS money and make outrageous requests. I continued to hold my ground and finally said to her "Thank you very much, I hope you can find someone".
After a couple of days a friend of the lady called back (or maybe the lady pretending to be a friend) and booked my services for that exact party.
How would you have handled this.
Eddy Rice Jr.
-----
Here's your answer:
First, congrats for sticking to your guns. You're a terrific entertainer and people should pay top dollar for your services. No ifs ands or buts.
Personally, I probably wouldn't have lasted that long in the conversation. And I may or may not have gotten the gig.
"If you can't afford my services at this time, that's ok. There's no shame in that. I can refer you to a lesser entertainer that you'll be very pleased with." And I do.
Notice the wording in that. There's a lot going on there. About half the time they'll call me back and book the show. No arguing. No negotiating. Everybody's happy. And if they do go with the less expensive option, I make some money for a friend.
Now, last thoughts on this. Any potential client that is that big of a pain in the ass when they're just in the researching process, is going to be a bigger pain in the butt when it comes to the event and your payment.
I don't need the headache. Each of us draw the line at a different place. Each of us needs to know what we will and won't do for a buck.
I don't need the business that badly. No client is worth losing sleep over. Especially one that can't pay me what I'm worth.
I welcome your comments.
If you like this, spread the word.
- John Abrams
Rebel Entertainer and Guy that likes to hold that line
http://www.rebelentertainers.com/
www.facebook.com/rebelentertainer
www.twitter.com/johnabrams1
He told me a story about a crazy potential client that was referred to him by a friend and asked how I'd have handled it. Here's the edited version:
-------
Thanks John. Your articles have helped a lot.
Here’s the story. I was referred by a close friend to a person that I was told wanted my services.
I called the potential client and told her what I had to offer and when we got to the price she said “That is outrageous! I've been hiring entertainers for years and your price is ridiculous!”
After telling her the benefits of my services and how I guaranteed that everyone would have a great time, she said 'Well, we're just going to buy a costume from China and have a friend put it on!'
On and on she went trying to get MORE services for LESS money and make outrageous requests. I continued to hold my ground and finally said to her "Thank you very much, I hope you can find someone".
After a couple of days a friend of the lady called back (or maybe the lady pretending to be a friend) and booked my services for that exact party.
How would you have handled this.
Eddy Rice Jr.
-----
Here's your answer:
First, congrats for sticking to your guns. You're a terrific entertainer and people should pay top dollar for your services. No ifs ands or buts.
Personally, I probably wouldn't have lasted that long in the conversation. And I may or may not have gotten the gig.
Because here are MY RULES.
"If you can't afford my services at this time, that's ok. There's no shame in that. I can refer you to a lesser entertainer that you'll be very pleased with." And I do.
Notice the wording in that. There's a lot going on there. About half the time they'll call me back and book the show. No arguing. No negotiating. Everybody's happy. And if they do go with the less expensive option, I make some money for a friend.
Now, last thoughts on this. Any potential client that is that big of a pain in the ass when they're just in the researching process, is going to be a bigger pain in the butt when it comes to the event and your payment.
I don't need the headache. Each of us draw the line at a different place. Each of us needs to know what we will and won't do for a buck.
I don't need the business that badly. No client is worth losing sleep over. Especially one that can't pay me what I'm worth.
I welcome your comments.
If you like this, spread the word.
- John Abrams
Rebel Entertainer and Guy that likes to hold that line
http://www.rebelentertainers.com/
www.facebook.com/rebelentertainer
www.twitter.com/johnabrams1
Government Bailout for Entertainers?
This next question is something that seems to be on everyone's mind. The economy.
Magic Michael asks:
Hi John-
With the economy as it is today, what ideas do you have for helping clients who DO want your program but have no government funding or funding of their own to FIND the money to hire you?
Best!
Michael
By the way, before I go on, I just want to say that I like this question and I imagine a lot of people are thinking the same thing. So...
Here's your answer:
First the fun part. I wish the government would cut me a nice fat check for about 40 million bucks. Heck, it's a small drop in the national debt bucket and I deserve it. No such luck.
Ok. Now the reality.
What's interesting about this economy is that the entertainers that saw the writing on the wall a couple of years ago and were aggressive and creative with their marketing actually had banner years in 2009 & 2010. The ones that said "I'll wait until this down-turn passes" are dying on the vine.
I had my BEST YEAR EVER last year and a number of my friends are in the same boat.
But I'm not blind to the plight of others. I do have friends that had been making their living entertaining for years but have had to take 9-5s and have exhausted their savings. Not a good place to be.
What's the difference between these two groups?
Education, Conviction and Aggression.
A few days ago I posted a number of different ways to market your business with absolutely no cost. If you used only those strategies - quickly, aggressively and actively - within a very very short period of time you would book enough gigs to invest in every product and every program that I offer. And even some I don't offer.
I've also posted an amazing strategy about a guy in the U.K. making buckets of money working a shopping area with literally no investment. Just a little bit of ingenuity. Click here to read it on my blog.
Last story and I'll hang this subject up.
My first ever investment in entertainment marketing material cost me exactly $100.00. It was Joel Bauer's Hustle Hustle. In retrospect, it wasn't that great and is now very dated. But it did give me a number of ideas that I used to book a number of shows. And that one investment started my journey to becoming a full time professional entertainer.
That was a hundred bucks I couldn't afford to spend. But I also couldn't afford to spend another day in my dreary job. A job that sucked the life out of me and zapped all my creative energy.
I now look back at that as the best hundred bucks I ever spent.
It's up to every single one of us to decide "when's the right time". For me it was about 11 years ago. Whenever that time is for you, it'll be the perfect time in your life for your situation.
I welcome your comments and experiences
If you like these tips, spread the word.
- John Abrams
Rebel Entertainer and Guy that's grateful for what entertaining has brought me
P.S. If you're ready, here's the link to all of my money making products: John's Stuff
P.S.S. For one-on-one coaching, click here.
Magic Michael asks:
Hi John-
With the economy as it is today, what ideas do you have for helping clients who DO want your program but have no government funding or funding of their own to FIND the money to hire you?
Best!
Michael
By the way, before I go on, I just want to say that I like this question and I imagine a lot of people are thinking the same thing. So...
Here's your answer:
First the fun part. I wish the government would cut me a nice fat check for about 40 million bucks. Heck, it's a small drop in the national debt bucket and I deserve it. No such luck.
Ok. Now the reality.
What's interesting about this economy is that the entertainers that saw the writing on the wall a couple of years ago and were aggressive and creative with their marketing actually had banner years in 2009 & 2010. The ones that said "I'll wait until this down-turn passes" are dying on the vine.
I had my BEST YEAR EVER last year and a number of my friends are in the same boat.
But I'm not blind to the plight of others. I do have friends that had been making their living entertaining for years but have had to take 9-5s and have exhausted their savings. Not a good place to be.
What's the difference between these two groups?
Education, Conviction and Aggression.
A few days ago I posted a number of different ways to market your business with absolutely no cost. If you used only those strategies - quickly, aggressively and actively - within a very very short period of time you would book enough gigs to invest in every product and every program that I offer. And even some I don't offer.
I've also posted an amazing strategy about a guy in the U.K. making buckets of money working a shopping area with literally no investment. Just a little bit of ingenuity. Click here to read it on my blog.
Last story and I'll hang this subject up.
My first ever investment in entertainment marketing material cost me exactly $100.00. It was Joel Bauer's Hustle Hustle. In retrospect, it wasn't that great and is now very dated. But it did give me a number of ideas that I used to book a number of shows. And that one investment started my journey to becoming a full time professional entertainer.
That was a hundred bucks I couldn't afford to spend. But I also couldn't afford to spend another day in my dreary job. A job that sucked the life out of me and zapped all my creative energy.
I now look back at that as the best hundred bucks I ever spent.
It's up to every single one of us to decide "when's the right time". For me it was about 11 years ago. Whenever that time is for you, it'll be the perfect time in your life for your situation.
I welcome your comments and experiences
If you like these tips, spread the word.
- John Abrams
Rebel Entertainer and Guy that's grateful for what entertaining has brought me
P.S. If you're ready, here's the link to all of my money making products: John's Stuff
P.S.S. For one-on-one coaching, click here.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Marketing with No Budget
I love variety artists. They have the coolest names.
This next question from the big Q & A came from Ken "Super K" Shute. He's a great balloon artist out of Southern California.
Ken writes:
John,
"What about marketing when there is no real budget for it, I mean, what are the things I can do that have little or no direct cost to me? "
Thanks, Ken
-----
Great question Ken.
Every entertainer in the world has asked this question at some time in their career. Sometimes it seems like if you have no money there's no place to start.
Not true!
Here are a few things you can do:
- Set up a blog that looks like a single page website. You can add video, photos and great copy. Absolutely no cost.
- Set up a Facebook Fan Page. These now get full indexing from the major search engines. Not as flexible as a blog, but is another way to get on the search engine list. No cost.
- Set up a Youtube account. Also full indexing. Use a video to drive people to your blog. No cost.
Make sure to use key words for your market, your art and your area and have each site link to the others.
But believe me brother, if it's only internet marketing your doing, it's not enough. Here's an excerpt from my Rebel Entertainer’s Success System that talks about that exact subject.
I’ve been asked this many times. Down and dirty, here’s what I’d do. I’d sit down and put together two kick-ass sales letters (doesn‘t cost a thing). I’d buy a domain name from Godaddy.com (about $10.00). I would have a friend put the long sales letter on a website as a 1 page website (a friend would do it for free). Then I would get a list from the internet of the people I want to sell to (also free). I would then sit on the phone and call them to introduce myself and find out if they were interested in my service. I would then ask if I could fax over a list of my services (faxing is free if you have a fax machine or can use a friend’s). The fax would be the shorter of the 2 kick-ass sales letters that would ask for the sale and, if they thought they needed more info, direct them to my website.
This whole process would cost about $10.00 - $15.00 and done right, would make a lot of sales. The only other thing it would cost is time.
Now, of course you can replace the website with a blog and do the entire thing for by yourself for free.
There ya’ go. Some quick tips for absolutely no cost.
By the way, if you want more info on my Rebel Entertainers Success System, just click on it.
If you like these tips, spread the word.
I welcome your comments and experiences.
-John Abrams
Rebel Entertainer and Guy that's been there
http://www.blogger.com/www.rebelentertainers.com
http://www.blogger.com/www.facebook.com/rebelentertainer
http://www.blogger.com/www.twitter.com/johnabrams1
This next question from the big Q & A came from Ken "Super K" Shute. He's a great balloon artist out of Southern California.
Ken writes:
John,
"What about marketing when there is no real budget for it, I mean, what are the things I can do that have little or no direct cost to me? "
Thanks, Ken
-----
Great question Ken.
Every entertainer in the world has asked this question at some time in their career. Sometimes it seems like if you have no money there's no place to start.
Not true!
Here are a few things you can do:
- Set up a blog that looks like a single page website. You can add video, photos and great copy. Absolutely no cost.
- Set up a Facebook Fan Page. These now get full indexing from the major search engines. Not as flexible as a blog, but is another way to get on the search engine list. No cost.
- Set up a Youtube account. Also full indexing. Use a video to drive people to your blog. No cost.
Make sure to use key words for your market, your art and your area and have each site link to the others.
But believe me brother, if it's only internet marketing your doing, it's not enough. Here's an excerpt from my Rebel Entertainer’s Success System that talks about that exact subject.
If I Only Had $100.00
to get My Entire Marketing Campaign
Off The Ground,
What Would I Do?
to get My Entire Marketing Campaign
Off The Ground,
What Would I Do?
I’ve been asked this many times. Down and dirty, here’s what I’d do. I’d sit down and put together two kick-ass sales letters (doesn‘t cost a thing). I’d buy a domain name from Godaddy.com (about $10.00). I would have a friend put the long sales letter on a website as a 1 page website (a friend would do it for free). Then I would get a list from the internet of the people I want to sell to (also free). I would then sit on the phone and call them to introduce myself and find out if they were interested in my service. I would then ask if I could fax over a list of my services (faxing is free if you have a fax machine or can use a friend’s). The fax would be the shorter of the 2 kick-ass sales letters that would ask for the sale and, if they thought they needed more info, direct them to my website.
This whole process would cost about $10.00 - $15.00 and done right, would make a lot of sales. The only other thing it would cost is time.
Now, of course you can replace the website with a blog and do the entire thing for by yourself for free.
There ya’ go. Some quick tips for absolutely no cost.
By the way, if you want more info on my Rebel Entertainers Success System, just click on it.
If you like these tips, spread the word.
I welcome your comments and experiences.
-John Abrams
Rebel Entertainer and Guy that's been there
http://www.blogger.com/www.rebelentertainers.com
http://www.blogger.com/www.facebook.com/rebelentertainer
http://www.blogger.com/www.twitter.com/johnabrams1
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Organizing Your Contacts
Magician Charles Watson wrote:
"I'm in the middle of creating a plan for tracking bookings, keeping in contact with them, and organizing everything. I am also planning my marketing strategies and trying to put together a list of things that I will do daily to draw new business....reaching past clients, sending thank you cards, confirmations etc.
How would you recommend setting up this system to keep yourself on track. I find myself getting side tracked and not knowing what to do daily."
Sincerly,
Charles
... and Clown/Balloon Artist Patrick Duffek (aka Pat in the Hat) wrote:
"How do you do your contact management and database work?
How do you keep track of your tasks, records, and information? "
Patrick
Here's your answer:
The number one and most important asset of your business is your client list. I'm always shocked and amazed when I'm coaching someone and they DON'T have that list.
This is an excellent question and much easier solved then people think.
I use a software program called ACT. Here's how I use it and what you can do with it also.
- You can keep track of all your current contacts
- You can separate them into different marketing groups (ie. Libraries, Corporate, etc..)
- You can personalize any marketing or business form you need to send out (everything from sales letters to labels to contracts)
- You can set alarms that can remind you of every mailing and contact you need to make with every individual client (ie. Thank you cards etc...)
- It has an option of keeping a history of every contact you've made and what was done (example: 2/8/10 - Sent contract, 2/10/10 - Received signed contract)
- You can upload any spreadsheet of contacts into it. This makes loading your address book or a list from your favorite list company a breeze
It can do much more, but I think you get the idea.
There are others on the market, but ACT is the one I've used for over a decade and it works great. Tried and true proven software.
There are a few that have been designed specifically for entertainers also. Check your local artist forums if you want to explore more.
Go get organized!
If you like these tips, spread the word.
I welcome your comments and experiences,
- John Abrams
Rebel Entertainer and Guy that likes to keep organized
www.rebelentertainers.com
www.facebook.com/rebelentertainer
www.twitter.com/johnabrams1
Monday, February 8, 2010
Q & A Answers - Customizing Your Show for Libraries
The response to my Q & A was terrific. The first one came from Rebel Entertainer Smarty Pants. If you haven’t seen him perform, you should. He’s hilarious and has some great routines.
Smarty writes:
Hey John,
“How do you handle marketing when dealing with library summer reading themes?
The problem in this area is that some libraries use a common theme (Scare up a Good Book this year) and some definitely don't (some librarians hate this theme) - and some use a completely different theme (there's a Surf up to the Library theme floating around too)
We're in a difficult spot in that by committing to one theme, we're excluding libraries not using that theme for a particular summer! Looking forward to hopefully you taking on this topic in your blog!”
Great question Pants.
I understand how difficult it is coming up with great routines. They take creative time, effort, props and performance time to make them work.
Although I do recommend creating a new show every so often to keep things fresh and offer your markets another service, I also know that a new show for every summer reading program becomes tiresome. I did it for a few years. I no longer do.
Here’s your answer:
If you’re new to the market (which I don’t think you are), you should definitely customize your first show to the theme. Maybe even customize it the second year. This will book more shows the first two summers and get you known as the person they can depend on to constantly bring in something new.
If you already have a name within the library market, there’s a different answer.
Anybody performing for libraries should have ONE STANDARD SHOW that they become known for. The show should promote checking out books and should be some of your best stuff.
Notice, I said the show should promote CHECKING OUT BOOKS. It doesn’t have to be a reading show, and quite frankly probably shouldn’t be. There are enough of those and they’re perceived as boring. It should be crazy fun and draw an audience.
Within that show, you should have 2-3 routines that can easily be “adjusted” for just about any theme. Just by changing a few words and few actions, it will appear like they are customized for the theme.
Example: Most of my Animal Magic Shows start with the lines “When you’re out on safari. And you’re gonna be gone 2-3 weeks at a time, what’s the most important thing to bring?”
Well, the altered version is this ““When you’re out on pirate ship…. “ or “When Santa’s flying around all night long…” or “When the Easter bunny’s hopping around everybody’s yard…”
And being a balloon artist, you should also be able to easily alter the particular sculpture that you do with the same story. “This is the story of a bird that had a fear of flying” or “This is a story about a fish with a fear of swimming” or “This is the story of a little girl that had a fear of reading books”.
Truthfully, most librarians won’t know the difference AND the audience will be mostly new the following year anyway.
This way, every year you can say “Here’s my brand new summer show called ‘Scare up, and blow up’. The most amazing balloon show customized to your summer theme”
“And remember, if you want something a bit different from the theme, you need my very own Smarty Pants Super Duper Balloon Party Show. It’s the one that has gotten glowing reviews from 100’s of libraries just like yours…”
Something like that.
Also, you won’t be forced to carry 3 completely different shows in your car. Well, you are carrying those shows, but they’re actually one show cleverly disguised as two or three.
Oh, and lastly. If you knock it out of the park every time at every library. And children run to check out books. NO MATTER WHAT KIND OF SHOW YOU OFFER, YOU’LL BE ASKED BACK AGAIN AND AGAIN.
Hope that helps.
I welcome your comments.
- John Abrams
Rebel Entertainer and Library Performer
www.rebelentertainers.com
www.facebook.com/rebelentertainer
www.twitter.com/johnabrams1
Smarty writes:
Hey John,
“How do you handle marketing when dealing with library summer reading themes?
The problem in this area is that some libraries use a common theme (Scare up a Good Book this year) and some definitely don't (some librarians hate this theme) - and some use a completely different theme (there's a Surf up to the Library theme floating around too)
We're in a difficult spot in that by committing to one theme, we're excluding libraries not using that theme for a particular summer! Looking forward to hopefully you taking on this topic in your blog!”
Great question Pants.
I understand how difficult it is coming up with great routines. They take creative time, effort, props and performance time to make them work.
Although I do recommend creating a new show every so often to keep things fresh and offer your markets another service, I also know that a new show for every summer reading program becomes tiresome. I did it for a few years. I no longer do.
Here’s your answer:
If you’re new to the market (which I don’t think you are), you should definitely customize your first show to the theme. Maybe even customize it the second year. This will book more shows the first two summers and get you known as the person they can depend on to constantly bring in something new.
If you already have a name within the library market, there’s a different answer.
Anybody performing for libraries should have ONE STANDARD SHOW that they become known for. The show should promote checking out books and should be some of your best stuff.
Notice, I said the show should promote CHECKING OUT BOOKS. It doesn’t have to be a reading show, and quite frankly probably shouldn’t be. There are enough of those and they’re perceived as boring. It should be crazy fun and draw an audience.
Within that show, you should have 2-3 routines that can easily be “adjusted” for just about any theme. Just by changing a few words and few actions, it will appear like they are customized for the theme.
Example: Most of my Animal Magic Shows start with the lines “When you’re out on safari. And you’re gonna be gone 2-3 weeks at a time, what’s the most important thing to bring?”
Well, the altered version is this ““When you’re out on pirate ship…. “ or “When Santa’s flying around all night long…” or “When the Easter bunny’s hopping around everybody’s yard…”
And being a balloon artist, you should also be able to easily alter the particular sculpture that you do with the same story. “This is the story of a bird that had a fear of flying” or “This is a story about a fish with a fear of swimming” or “This is the story of a little girl that had a fear of reading books”.
Truthfully, most librarians won’t know the difference AND the audience will be mostly new the following year anyway.
This way, every year you can say “Here’s my brand new summer show called ‘Scare up, and blow up’. The most amazing balloon show customized to your summer theme”
“And remember, if you want something a bit different from the theme, you need my very own Smarty Pants Super Duper Balloon Party Show. It’s the one that has gotten glowing reviews from 100’s of libraries just like yours…”
Something like that.
Also, you won’t be forced to carry 3 completely different shows in your car. Well, you are carrying those shows, but they’re actually one show cleverly disguised as two or three.
Oh, and lastly. If you knock it out of the park every time at every library. And children run to check out books. NO MATTER WHAT KIND OF SHOW YOU OFFER, YOU’LL BE ASKED BACK AGAIN AND AGAIN.
Hope that helps.
I welcome your comments.
- John Abrams
Rebel Entertainer and Library Performer
www.rebelentertainers.com
www.facebook.com/rebelentertainer
www.twitter.com/johnabrams1
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Ijet Review
If you’re looking for a remote for your ipod to run your sound during your show, this may be the ticket.My Virtual Sound Man died on me and the manufacturer went out of business. Each of my shows has 15 - 20 sound cues. So I went in search of a replacement. I searched the various entertainer forums and discovered the Ijet (I’m obviously not the first).
The Ijet is described as a remote that attaches to your Ipod that has an “RF signal that travels through walls, ceilings, and around corners up to 150 ft. away.”
The facts:
The Ijet comes with the remote control (which is a little like a car remote), two different kinds of belt attachments, the Ijet unit that attaches to your ipod and an RCA cord. The Ijet unit itself is about three inches long, one inch tall and about a half an inch thick. Very discreet.
It attaches to the bottom of your ipod and is ready to work in 30 seconds.
The remote has “play/pause”, “forward track”, “back track”, “volume up” and “volume down” buttons.
The Ijet runs on the power of your Ipod and is completely wireless.
You can get it on www.amazon.com for about 30 bucks.
Here’s my review:
I received the Ijet on Thursday night and after about 10 minutes of practice was using it for shows by Friday morning.
I’m a learn-on-the-job kinda guy, so it took me about 4 songs (sound cues) to get use to it. I love it. I can start a song and stop a song. Increase and decrease volume at will.
I didn’t actually measure the distance, but on that one day I performed four shows in three different venues (cafeteria, theatre and multi purpose room) with audiences ranging from 200 to 500 people and it worked fine. I even run through the audience and it worked there.
Here are a few things to think about before purchasing:
- Because the Ijet attaches to the bottom of your Ipod, the headphone jack must be elsewhere. My wife’s Nano has the headphone jack on the bottom, so it wouldn’t work. I have a Classic, so it was fine.
- Check the compatibility on-line. Doesn’t work with all ipods.
- The remote does not have a fade-out feature. If this is important to you, you may want to look elsewhere.
- I would say it’s about 95 percent dependable. If your show is dependant on EXACT sound cues such as sound effects, you may want something a bit more reliable. But if you just run music cues, it’s perfect.
- All the entertainer forums suggest that you have a blank track between each track to make managing your list easier. I didn’t find this necessary.
- Because the Ijet works on the power your Ipod, you’ll need to charge the ipod between shows. I don’t like taking any of my equipment out of my sound bag between shows, so you can solve that problem by charging your ipod while setting up or breaking down your show. That way everything stays together.
All that being said, if you want the perfect remote to use for your music cues for only about 30 bucks, this is a no-brainer. Great for a one man/woman show. If you need all the other bells and whistles, you can invest the thousand or so dollars in something much more fancy schmancy.
I welcome your comments.
Have fun!
- John Abrams
Rebel Entertainer and Guy that has the music in him
www.rebelentertainers.com
www.facebook.com/rebelentertainer
www.twitter.com/johnabrams1
Thursday, January 14, 2010
What happens when your client says "We Have A Problem"?
A crazy thing happened today that I had to tell you about. Here it is.
I was hired by a school to perform my Animal Magic show.
So, I drive two and half hours to the gig. (I accepted the distance because I was able to book four more shows the next day in the same area so it made it worth my while)
I show up. On time. Ready to set up. I meet with the principal that hired me.
She pulls me aside and says "WE HAVE A PROBLEM".
OK. Other than "I'm late for my monthly visitor", "we have a problem" is probably the worst thing you can here.
She goes on to say that because of an animal act that they had last month that was busted by the Department of Fish and Game, the district is no longer allowing animal acts at any of the schools.
"So I'm really uncomfortable with you performing today"
Well gee. Ya coulda' told me that before I made the drive! Animal Magic has animals. Heck, it's in the name! Thank goodness she paid in advance (true).
I didn't lose my cool. Instead, I remembered that I came prepared to perform a completely different show the next day. My Bully Prevention show.
So I calmly told her that "I have another terrific show loaded in my car right now that doesn't use any animals. I guarantee your kids will love it". I went on to tell her a bit about the show.
She agreed and I performed two of my Bully Prevention shows.
Now, I could've said "Hey lady, you're out of luck. I made the drive here. You already paid. Too bad. I'm going to the hotel".
But I knew that the kids were expecting a "caught being good" reward assembly. And I wanted to make sure I made good on my end of the bargain. So instead, I worked it out with her.
She was thrilled. At the end of the two shows she gave me a huge high five and said "Thank you so much. You are my hero! Ya really pulled my butt out of the fire."
Right before leaving, I subtly (ok, maybe not so subtly) suggested that she tell this story to the schools around the area. Forty five minutes later, by the time I got to my hotel room, there was a call from another school in her area ready to book the show.
Do I come prepared with two completely different shows every time? No. Will I from now on? Yes.
See how many lessons you can pick out of this crazy day.
I welcome your comments.
-John Abrams
Rebel Entertainer and guy that loves his job!
www.rebelentertainers.com
www.facebook.com/rebelentertainer
www.twitter.com/johnabrams1
I was hired by a school to perform my Animal Magic show.
So, I drive two and half hours to the gig. (I accepted the distance because I was able to book four more shows the next day in the same area so it made it worth my while)
I show up. On time. Ready to set up. I meet with the principal that hired me.
She pulls me aside and says "WE HAVE A PROBLEM".
OK. Other than "I'm late for my monthly visitor", "we have a problem" is probably the worst thing you can here.
She goes on to say that because of an animal act that they had last month that was busted by the Department of Fish and Game, the district is no longer allowing animal acts at any of the schools.
"So I'm really uncomfortable with you performing today"
Well gee. Ya coulda' told me that before I made the drive! Animal Magic has animals. Heck, it's in the name! Thank goodness she paid in advance (true).
I didn't lose my cool. Instead, I remembered that I came prepared to perform a completely different show the next day. My Bully Prevention show.
So I calmly told her that "I have another terrific show loaded in my car right now that doesn't use any animals. I guarantee your kids will love it". I went on to tell her a bit about the show.
She agreed and I performed two of my Bully Prevention shows.
Now, I could've said "Hey lady, you're out of luck. I made the drive here. You already paid. Too bad. I'm going to the hotel".
But I knew that the kids were expecting a "caught being good" reward assembly. And I wanted to make sure I made good on my end of the bargain. So instead, I worked it out with her.
She was thrilled. At the end of the two shows she gave me a huge high five and said "Thank you so much. You are my hero! Ya really pulled my butt out of the fire."
Right before leaving, I subtly (ok, maybe not so subtly) suggested that she tell this story to the schools around the area. Forty five minutes later, by the time I got to my hotel room, there was a call from another school in her area ready to book the show.
Do I come prepared with two completely different shows every time? No. Will I from now on? Yes.
See how many lessons you can pick out of this crazy day.
I welcome your comments.
-John Abrams
Rebel Entertainer and guy that loves his job!
www.rebelentertainers.com
www.facebook.com/rebelentertainer
www.twitter.com/johnabrams1
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