Rebel Entertainer

It's all about meeeeee!

2010-05-04T10:11:00.000-07:00

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

How to get HONEST feedback

2010-04-20T11:30:00.000-07:00

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

Advertising on Craigs List

2010-04-07T07:00:00.000-07:00

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"

Here's your answer:

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.

So with that in mind, the first thing you need to look at is the actual title of your listing. Treat the listing like a headline. Use all the standard marketing techniques to drive them to your listing (for headline writing techniques, refer to my Rebel Entertainer Success System)

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.

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

My twisting line never ends...

2010-04-05T16:33:00.000-07:00

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.

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.

I welcome your comments.

-John Abrams

Rebel Entertainer and Guy that likes to put it in the contract
www.rebelentertainers.com
www.facebook.com/rebelentertainer
www.twitter.com/johnabrams1

Did you see it?

2010-03-17T16:55:00.000-07:00

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

Oh the Pain!

2010-03-17T07:39:00.000-07:00

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.

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

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

Rebel Entertainer and Pain Reliever

www.RebelEntertainers.com

www.Facebook.com/rebelentertainers

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THE BEST School Assembly Themes

2010-03-02T10:46:00.000-08:00

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

Your Price is Outrageous!

2010-02-17T14:09:00.000-08:00

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.

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?

2010-02-17T13:44:00.000-08:00

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.

Marketing with No Budget

2010-02-10T11:32:00.000-08:00

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.

If I Only Had $100.00
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

Organizing Your Contacts

2010-02-09T19:26:00.000-08:00

The second question from the big Q & A came from two completely different Rebel Entertainers from two completely different arts.

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

Q & A Answers - Customizing Your Show for Libraries

2010-02-08T08:21:00.001-08:00

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

Ijet Review

2010-01-26T08:02:00.000-08:00

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

What happens when your client says "We Have A Problem"?

2010-01-14T21:29:00.000-08:00

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

Marketing During Your Show

2009-12-21T07:51:00.000-08:00

The last word on name recognition comes from one of my most prolific Rebel Entertainers Carmen Tellez. You read her success story a few weeks ago. Well, there’s a reason she’s so successful.

Before you read what she says, notice that even in writing this letter to me, Carmen mentions her own website 5 separate times.

Also, notice all the contact web pages at the bottom.

Ok. Here's what Carmen had to say:

The routine with Jeff & Peanut is superbly funny to me regarding his name and dot com. Myself, I hired a singer/songwriter to assemble a CharmandHappy.com jingle. I have it posted on my website for viewers along with a page that includes the words and the option to download.

Funny bit of info.... My friend Jack M., who is a Magician/Balloon Artist even has my Jingleon his iPod that HE takes to events. ;0).

I have this song play at the beginning & end of most of my appearances on a portable music player next to my CharmandHappy.com Photo Banner I hang on my ShowBox.

One of the magic tricks I perform is to use a Magic Bag with the end revealing a CharmandHappy.com T shirt as a gift for the Bday child. If working a company event, then I make sure I choose a child that the t-shirt would fit and the shirt would be one that excludes Happy Birthday printed.

One of the contests at the party is for the participants to say "CharmandHappy.com" 3 times clearly without messing up.

And another contest is the Singing Contest where participants get a print out of the words as they try to sing their own way to the CharmandHappy.com Jingle.

I started an online YouTube contest, but with being pregnant at the time and dealing with other biz & family, I never followed thru with that, but I plan to soon

Well, that's all for now. I'm gonna post this as a note on my FaceBook too so it can nudge me to continue that contest. Your email has made my wheels spin yet again John.
Thank you so very much!

Carmen@CharmandHappy.com
- Artist Entertainer with a Twist of Charm -

http://www.CharmandHappy.com
877-725-6967 office
562-237-3327 cell
Face Painter - Balloon Artist
Whittier (Los Angeles) CA

FOLLOW OUR DAILY UPDATES:
http://www.FaceBook.com/CharmandHappy
http://www.Twitter.com/CharmandHappy
http://www.YouTube.com/CharmandHappy
http://www.MySpace.com/CharmandHappy

PERSONALIZED PHOTO BUTTONS
http://www.aPhotoButton.com

ONLINE PARTY SUPPLIES
http://www.CharmandHappy.MakesParties.com

As always, an awesome post from Carmen!!!

- John Abrams
Rebel Entertainer and Guy that learns from other Rebel Entertainers every day

www.rebelentertainers.com
www.facebook.com/rebelentertainer
www.twitter.com/johnabrams1

Advice from a Clown & a Hypnotist

2009-12-18T14:50:00.000-08:00

I’m cleaning out that inbox of great ideas from other Rebel Entertainers. Here’s part 4 of your ideas.

It’s all about name recognition…

The first comes from T Tator Tot (www.ttatortot.com), a wonderful clown out of Snohomish, WA.

She wrote:

"This sounds like something Ruthie (Champagne) did at her twist and shout class in February this year. Repeat repeat repeat. Have the kids say your name at least 10 times!! I try to do it too!! Thanks! - Terri "

Great idea for kids shows Terri. I use this myself.

The next came from Master Hypnotist Jesse Lewis (http://jesselewishypnosis.com). Jesse writes:

" John, I am a stage hypnotist. You asked how we can add our names into our show for stage. For hypnotists its easy. In the middle or end of the show we can do a skit where we just tell our volunteers that every time they hear the name Jesse Lewis they will say he’s an awesome hypnotist, or he’s an idiot, something along those lines. This also is a great way to get the crowd involved. That is how I get the audience to say my name Jesse "

Very powerful advice Jesse. Thanks for sharing it.

More to come.

-John Abrams
Rebel Entertainer and Guy the thinks Jesse & Tator are awesome!
www.rebelentertainers.com
www.facebook.com/rebelentertainer
www.twitter.com/johnabrams1

More on name recognition

2009-12-14T10:04:00.000-08:00

First off, I want to thank Sean Miller of Grey Cloud Studios. Sean has a repertory company of variety entertainers (http://www.greycloudstudios.com).

Sean was the one that reminded me of the Jeff Dunham routine.

Now, part 3 of your ideas.

That Dunham post got a huge response from other Rebel Entertainers. So here some others from Sean. More to come from others in later posts.

First, Sean wrote back reminding me of Chevy Chase:

“How many people who are old enough think that Chevy Chase was on Saturday Night Live for several seasons? The truth of the matter is that he left after the first season, but for that first season his name got said at least once every episode. How? Simple, he decided to finish each "Weekend Update" segment with the words, "I'm Chevy Chase and you're not." That put his name on the lips of people all over the country if not the world. It was a great piece of marketing and served him well enough to land the movie deals he was after.”

Then he mentioned a couple of others:

“I'm not entirely sure where I heard this, but I seem to think it was on a PBS type special. They were talking to Red Skelton and he was telling about how after the first matinee everyday he would call the local hotels that had active lobbies and have himself paged with something like, "Red Skelton, Red Skelton, phone call for Red Skelton from the Palace Theater." That way, his name would be heard along with the theater he was playing in that day. It kind of goes along with what Larry The Cable Guy did by calling into radio stations around the country to build his following. Oops, that makes two more self promoting entertainers.”

**

Thanks so much for chiming in Sean. We can definitely use these.

- John Abrams
Rebel Entertainer and guy that uses name recognition in every post

www.rebelentertainers.com
www.facebook.com/rebelentertainer
www.twitter.com/johnabrams1

Twitter Tips

2009-12-14T07:24:00.000-08:00

I’m finding some serious gold in them there hills! Here’s part 2 of the series of ideas I’ve collected from other Rebel Entertainers.

I was talking about social media (Facebook, Twitter, etc…) and I got this response from Balloon Artist Jason Vaughn of Higher Hope Entertainment (www.higherhopeentertainment.com).

He has some great points. Here ya’ go.

****
John,

I thought you and your readers might find some of these tips useful as they begin working with twitter. So here are five tips to get the most out of it.

1.) Have a plan

Like all social media you can waste days on twitter. There are so many people to follow and meet and things to tweet about that it can become overwhelming. So before you come to twitter make a plan. Decide when you'll get on twitter and how much time you'll spend.
I suggest 3 times a day and spending five to ten minutes replying and tweeting.

2.) Use photos and video
Your thoughts are interesting, but people really want to see through your eyes. Tweets with photo links or videos really stand out. They also really help you say may more just 140 characters.

3.) Don't just advertise
So many companies get on twitter and all they do is talk about themselves. No one wants that. It is okay from time to time to talk about your service, but remember that to really be recognized you need to offer value to those reading your tweets. Post stories, thoughts, and inspiring quotes.

4.) Don't be corporate
The days of the nameless faceless companies are gone. And good riddance. Today people don't want that third person nonsense, they want connections and emotions.

Here is an example. Instead of tweeting: “St. Louis Balloon Artist at Chick-Fil-A on Olive from 5-7.”

Tweet: “I can't wait to be at Chick-fil-a on Olive tonight. The families and staff are a blast! I'm there from 5-7 if you get a chance to swing by.”

5.) Speak don't yell

When I first got on twitter I made stupid mistakes like all those above. The biggest I made was that I set up an automated welcome tweet. And of course it was all about me.
For those that don't know an automated welcome is when you set up your account using a twitter application to send a tweet to people when they first follow you. A lot of folks do it (especially companies) but it really does get annoying.

Instead of the automated tweet I suggest looking at your followers' accounts and replying to something in a personal manner.

Well those are a few tips to get started. I'll be expanding on this a lot more at FLOAT for anyone interested. And you know you're always welcome to e-mail me.

John, I'm loving both your courses. It has been a great investment. I've been very profitable in getting my name online and with your help I'm getting great returns offline as well.

I sincerely thank you.
Twistedly yours,
Jason Vaughn

****
Thanks for sharing these tips Jason. We all really appreciate it!

By the way, you can follow Jason on twitter @HigherHopeDecor and follow me @JohnAbrams1.

- John Abrams
Rebel Entertainer and Big Twit
www.rebelentertainers.com
www.facebook.com/rebelentertainer
www.twitter.com/johnabrams1

Your ideas are amazing!

2009-12-09T08:59:00.000-08:00

At the end of each of my blogs and email posts, I ask you to respond. Well, I get lots of amazing Rebel Entertainers emailing me the techniques and methods that they use.

So, in the next few posts, I’m going to share with you some of the terrific ideas that other entertainers have shared with me.

The first of this series was sent to me by Chris McDaniel (www.chrismcdaniel.net). We were talking about searching the internet for your name and finding photos, newspaper clippings and such.

Here’s what Chris had to say:

Hey John,

Speaking of this, did you know you can do a Google alert on whatever
you want to regularly search. And anytime that combination of words
comes up, you get an email on it.

It's automatic.

I have Chris McDaniel on Google alert. And sure, I have to go through quite a few
'Chris Thompson and Sally McDaniel' or other Chris McDaniels who are
out there, but I've found LOTS of things about me that I would have missed
without it.

I recommend it highly. Google Alerts rule!

- Chris

Great idea Chris! You can also Google Alert “great party ideas” or any other keyword search that might help you with blog content.

Special thanks to Chris McDaniel for sharing this idea.

P.S. - Oh, I also received a number of entertainer success stories. I’ll be posting those as soon as I can get to it. If you have a great story for me, shoot me an email. I’ll be happy to post that too.

- John Abrams
Rebel Entertainer and Guy That Loves to Share Ideas
www.rebelentertainers.com
www.facebook.com/rebelentertainer
www.twitter.com/johnabrams1

Why is Jeff Dunham so famous?

2009-12-09T08:35:00.000-08:00

There’s a lot of reasons. First he’s amazingly good at what he does. He’s hilarious. And he’s put together a great act.

But how did he get so famous so fast?

He didn’t.

He’s been doing it for a loooooong time. I first saw Jeff at the Comedy Magic Club in Hermosa Beach some 15 years ago. He was somewhat famous then.

But he now has his own show with signature routines that everyone knows from his Cable special.

What people don’t think about, is that he is a master at MARKETING DURING HIS SHOW. This is where most entertainers fall short.

I recently watched a routine of his on you tube. You all know it. It’s where he’s arguing with Peanut about his name. And over and over he and peanut repeat his name. And then peanut always adds “dot com!”

I counted fourteen (14) times that they said Jeff Dunham. And seven (7) times that peanut said “dot com”. I think there were more.

Do you think that every single person that has seen his show, either live or on tv, remembers his name? The answer, of course, is yes. And how many people went to his website right after the show and joined his fan club?

How do you market during your show?

Well, you can’t steal his routine, but you can certainly figure out interesting ways to say your name throughout your show. You can also simply hang a sign with your name and “dot com” in front of any working “table” that you’re using.

How do you use name recognition?

I welcome your comments.

- John Abrams
Rebel Entertainer “dot com”

P. S. I forgot which Rebel Entertainer reminded me of this, so if it’s you, I want to give you full credit. Email me if it was you.

www.rebelentertainers.com
www.facebook.com/rebelentertainer
www.twitter.com/johnabrams1

John's Brand New Coaching Program

2009-11-29T11:37:00.000-08:00

Attn: All Children and Family Entertainers

Take Your Career to the Next Level,
Create A Career That
Exactly Fits The Personal Lifestyle That You Want,
And Finally Make
The Kind of Money You Deserve
With
John Abrams’ Rebel Entertainers'

PERSONAL ONE-ON-ONE
“FASTRACK TO SUCCESS”
COACHING PROGRAM

Dear Friend,

I am now accepting ten (10) people - only ten children’s and/or family entertainers that are hungry to take massive action to change the course of their careers. Ten people that are ready to take full control of their career and CREATE and IMPLEMENT a performing and marketing plan that they’ll be happy with for years to come.

YOU MAY QUALIFY FOR THIS PROGRAM IF…

You’re a PART-TIME Children’s and/or Family Entertainer, and you’re ready to make that big jump into making your entire living as full-time entertainer…

You’ve been MAKING YOUR LIVING as a Children’s and/or Family Entertainer for years, but don’t feel you’re making the kind of money that you want to, AND you’re ready to take your career to a much higher level…

First, let’s both get on the same page…

What is a “Success Coach” anyway?

A success coach is - A person that’s already done the things that YOU WANT TO DO and is READY, WILLING and HAS THE TOOLS to give YOU so you can succeed.

There’s a reason that my One-On-One Fast Track To Success Coaching Program is only available to children’s/family entertainers. It’s because I’ve been there. I’ve worked the birthdays, the schools, the daycares, the libraries, the city events and just about every type of children and family venue there is. All by choice. I still perform about 400 shows a year and I’m proud as heck to be a children’s entertainer!

AND it’s my goal to help every person that truly has a love of the field to do the same.

A success coach is - A person that’s gonna keep you ON TASK and ON TRACK. One that will hold you accountable to your mission and your purpose. A person that cares that you succeed and will do everything in his power to help you make that happen.

OK. I’m not gonna beat around the bush with a bunch of marketing hype.

Here’s how the program works:

For THIRTEEN (13) WEEKS, I’ll be your very own personal coach. Every contact will be focused on your career and your goals.

Why 13 weeks? It’s simple. This is not a “get rich quick” scheme. You’ll be asked every week to take action. Your progress every week will build upon the progress of the previous week.

I believe that in three months time your career will be on a path that you’ll be thrilled with. You’ll have a system in place for performing and marketing your talents that will last as long you choose.

Here’s how we’ll communicate:

- One 35 Minute Focused Phone Call Each Week - In thirty five minutes we’ll make a plan of action for that week. These plans will include everything from creating or customizing your show, researching new markets, creating innovative marketing material, and much much more. A “Focused” call.

- Fast Action Follow Up - Within minutes of the phone call you’ll receive, via email, the Fast Action Follow Up listing every plan of action that we discussed. This form is invaluable in keeping us “On Task” and on course.

- One Mid Week Pick-Up email - Sometimes we need a little kick in the pants to get ‘er going. I’ll be checking in and seeing how you’re progressing and if you’ve come upon any stumbling blocks.

That’s how the program works.

Along with the weekly communication,
you’ll also receive these three bonuses bonuses

As you may know, simply talking on the phone and by email may not be enough. If you are one of the ten that get accepted, you‘ll also get…

A “quick review” of your website - Although I don’t profess to be a website SEO guru, I do know what sells and how to portray your personality on your website. Once we get rolling and have a plan, I’ll do a quick review and suggest any changes that can be made to enhance the site.
A “quick review” of every marketing piece your sending out - Whether it’s a direct mail piece, a promo DVD, or even an email marketing piece, if you created it while in this program, I’ll want to take a look and help you make it the best it can be.
A “quick review” of your current show and/or the one that you build using this program (if you’re a twister or face painter, you’re still doing mini “shows”) - You’ve heard the old expression “The show’s the thing”. Well it’s true. Without a good show, ya got nothin’. Subtly (and not so subtly) marketing during your show is one of the key elements of a successful performing career. And don’t worry. I’m not gonna go all Simon Cowell on ya’. I just want to make sure we’re all on the same page.

As you can see, the program is comprehensive in every way. No stone is left unturned.

BUT…This Program is Not For Everybody!

I’ve spoken to a lot of entertainers. And not every one of them is in a place in their life where they’re ready to take on the challenge of attacking their career head on. I’m not interested in wasting your time and I expect that you’ll show me the same courtesy.

I’ve told you what this program is, here's what it is not...

- This is NOT an audio, video or internet course with a few emails thrown in to make you think that I’m doing something - It’s a PERSONAL COACHING PROGRAM. I expect you to pick my brain every single week.

- This is NOT a program where we meet every week and moan about the economy and all other forces that surround us that keep us from succeeding - Yes, we need to find the obstacles and overcome them, but I’m not interested in sitting there listening to someone bitch and moan with no solution.

- This is NOT a program that lingers on and on until you run out of time and patience - I’m not a psychologist and I’m not interested in sucking your pocketbook dry only to see you fall on your face. It’s quick, intensive and effective.

- This is NOT a program that I offer to anybody in the Southern or Central California area - If you’ve read this far and you’re from So Cal, sorry Charlie, but your out of luck. The truth is I still pay my bills by performing in and around Southern and Central California. I don’t need someone else using the tools that I’ve painstakingly gathered over the years to use to compete with me. So if you’re from So Cal, you can stop right now and write me a nasty letter.

WHO DOES QUALIFY TO APPLY

You qualify if…

1.) You have a variety art that you are proficient at - Juggling, magic, stilt walking, ventriloquism, balloon twisting, face and body painting, singing, dancing, or any other talent that has intrinsic entertainment value. Remember, you don’t need to be the best, just proficient.

2.) You are most interested in marketing to Children/Family markets - If you’re interested in corporate, cruise ships or any other markets not dealing with Children or Families, I’m probably not your guy. I can only teach what I know. Although marketing 101 can be applied to just about every market, to seriously dominate a market, you’ll need to know the smallest details. Children and Family Entertainers Only Please.
3.) You are at a place in your life where you’re ready and willing to make changes in your career without excuses. ‘Nuff said.

THE BIG QUESTION:
DOES JOHN’S COACHING STYLE
FIT WITH YOUR CAREER IDEAS…

I’ll be honest with you. I didn’t take one of these “How to be a Life Coach” seminars and I’m not interested in any kind of life altering experience. This is about YOUR career.

Here’s how I’ve arranged my career and maybe it’ll give you some insight in the direction we’ll go.

I believe in PERFORMING TO FIT YOUR LIFESTYLE. Like many of you, I started out doing birthdays, company picnics etc... Working every weekend performing three, four, sometimes six and seven shows every weekend. But I missed my family. I have a wife and two kids to look after.

It didn’t fit my lifestyle. I wasn’t the happiest plum in the pie. So I took action. Within 6 months I completely rearranged my marketing and became one of So Cal’s top school entertainers. Now I’m home when my kids get home. I’m there to help with their homework and help my wife with the laundry.

This is Performing to Fit Your Lifestyle. Let’s face it, you’re going to be spending a good portion of each day working (or playing as the case may be). You’ll want to arrange your performing around your own personal life. Everybody should!

Let’s get to it…
WHAT’S THE BOTTOM LINE?

The total investment is $497.00 per month for three months.

****Now hold your horses! I understand that for some people this is a big investment. But that’s exactly what it is. An investment.

****SO BEFORE YOU CLICK AWAY, THINK ABOUT THIS: This investment price is less than you would be getting paid for just a couple of additional gigs each month. Only a couple of gigs. In fact, in the markets I work in, it’s less than one.

RIGHT ABOUT NOW, YOU MAY HAVE A NUMBER OF QUESTIONS
SWIMMING AROUND YOUR HEAD…

“How do I know it’ll work?”
“Will it take too much time?
“Will I really make the money I want to make?”

I understand that you want to make sure that you see RESULTS. After all, that’s the only reason you’d even consider ANY coaching program.

This program is designed to create a SYSTEM for YOU. A performing career that you‘ll be happy with. A lifestyle type of career. Not a couple of shows to pay off a few credit cards.

So here’s my
TRIPLE NO RISK GUARANTEE

GUARANTEE #1 - If, after the first phone call, you are not satisfied with the direction that we’re going, I will refund your entire first month fee. No harm, no foul. No additional charges. We’ll still be friends and we‘ll both go on our merry way.

GUARANTEE #2 - You can discontinue after any single month. Once you discontinue, you will not be charged for any unused services.

GUARANTEE #3 - If, after completing this entire program and following my instructions exactly, you still don’t make enough money to cover this investment, I will send you a full refund.

No risk, all the way through the program. It’s that simple.

OK John, I’m ready, how do we get started?

Since I can only take ten (10) people for the program, I’ll need to keep a sharp eye on who applies first and who is qualified. So, as soon you decide, send me an email at john@rebelentertainer.com.

Tell me “I’m ready for your coaching program”. As soon as I receive it, I’ll email you the One-On-One Fast Track Coaching Application. Fill it out and fax it back to me at 714-283-3884 or email it back to the above email address.

IMPORTANT: I can only take the first ten entertainers that send it back and qualify. And I will only be accepting applications three times a year. So send it back to me immediately.

As soon as I get the application, upon verification, I will contact you via email and set up our first coaching call. Your credit card will not be charged the first payment until after you’ve been accepted.

If you are not qualified or you do not get your application in on time, you’ll be put on a waiting list and be the first contacted for the next cycle.

Email me now to make sure you get a spot:
John@rebelentertainer.com

I’m looking forward to working with you and helping you create your own success story.

John Abrams

P.S. Remember, I can only accept ten people. And I’ll only be offering this program three times per year. The next cycle will start around April. So don’t delay. Get yourself on the Fast Track to Success right now.

Google yourself lately?

2009-11-25T14:19:00.000-08:00

Pardon the dirty sounding title to this email. But this is something I do about once a month. And you should do.

OK. We’re really not talking about anything outrageous. I’m suggesting that every few months you take a look at the internet for your own listings.

You never know what’s gonna come up. Just the other day I Googled “Magician John Abrams” (me) and I was surprised at what I saw.

Of course, I found out if my websites were getting the ranking that I wanted, but I discovered a lot more. I found web links to newspaper articles that I’ve been in (and didn’t even know it), links to newsletters with my name and all sorts of assorted stuff that I can now use for my own personal promotion.

I put a couple of pics on this blog that I found in a news report that I may or may not use. But at least now I have them.

With everybody carrying around a camera in their phone nowadays, and with Facebook, Twitter, Flickr and all the other social networking sites, you may find a gold mine in promotional photos that are starring you.

Here’s a couple of ideas to get you started.

- Google your Name
- Google your Name plus your art (ie. John Abrams Magician)
- Google your art and city, state or area (ie.. Jugglers in Texas)
- Google your key words (ie. Kids parties in Los Angeles or Corporate Magicians in Talahassee)

You can also search Yahoo, Ask, or any other search engine you can think of.

Remember, if it’s in the news, it’s something you can use.

Oh, P.S. - I’ll be rolling out my coaching program next week. If you’re a children or family entertainer and want to put your career on the fast track, keep your eye out. Well don’t actually keep your eye all the way out, just watch for it.

Have fun.

John Abrams
Rebel Entertainer and Glutton for Publicity
www.rebelentertainers.com
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Are your clients Rock Stars?

2009-11-24T08:55:00.000-08:00

How do you get your clients to hire you back again year after year? There are many ways including reminders, follow up phone calls etc… but here’s a sure fire plan to get them to remember you.

Simply put - TREAT ‘EM LIKE A ROCK STAR!

Here are five quick ways to do it.

1.) Make booking, set up, follow up material etc. so easy, that they literally don’t have to lift a finger.

2.) Recognize the person that hired you or the VIP of the event during the show. Something like “Did you all have a good time!? Well, I’d like to thank Joe Smith for bringing me here today so we could have such a great time. Let’s give Joe a Hip Hip (Horray), Hip Hip (Hooray!)…” (NOTE: For line twisters and face painters, make sure to send some of your happy customers over to the VIP to thank him/her personally)

3.) Follow up the very next day with a phone call to make sure everything went as planned

4.) Have a small gift for the person that hired you BEFORE the show (hand it to them) and AFTER (by mail)

5.) Have a dynamic entertaining show (should go without saying. But there, I said it)

Do these things work?

Here’s an email I just received from the PTA President of a school I performed at a couple of weeks ago that prompted me to write this blog.

John,

“Thank you for two great assemblies. Everyone thinks that I’m a rock star and I didn’t even do any of the work. Thanks again for making my job easy.”
-Tricia

Think they’ll come back? I’m gonna do everything in my power to make sure of it.

Now, what else can you do to treat your clients like a rock star?

I welcome your comments.

-John
Rebel Entertainer and Guy That Treats His Clients Like Rock Stars
www.rebelentertainers.com
www.facebook.com/rebelentertainer
www.twitter.com/johnabrams1

The Story of Charm and Happy

2009-11-09T17:14:00.000-08:00

Here's Carmen Tellez's fascinating story... written by Carmen in her own words...

One April afternoon, a friend of mine visited me at Avenue Press in Downey, CA. I worked as the Desktop Publisher at this print shop.

My friend Edgar (Eggo the Clown) asked if I would help him at his next gig by face painting the children's faces. I kindly declined letting him know "No offense, but I don't like clowns".

He convinced me that he was a friendly clown as I have only seen & known him "out of make up", so there was nothing to be concerned about. He said "Plus, I already bought the make-up paint and the kids would be so disappointed if I didn't go".

I let him know that I can draw a little, but never painted faces before. He assured me that I would do just fine. I believed him.

I gathered a few thrift store colorful clothes to create a homemade version of a clown helpers outfit. Looked pretty darned good too.

At that first party April of 1994, I saw Egoo and thought "Oh My! He does need help". He didn’t have an actual costume or clown looking get-up at all.

His running shoes were dirty, He wore 80's style beach pants, a t-shirt with suspenders and his make-up looked scary. He had a beat up cardboard box and had written "Clown Stuff" on it with a sharpie. Aaaaaaagh!

So I sort of played the soft friendly clown helper. The kids had a great time, but the look on the parents faces were to be noted.

During the next few days, I went to the local library to read what a "real clown" is supposed to do and look like. Found a video featuring Frosty Little (Master Clown) of Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey Circus titled "Behind the Red Nose".

This video was actually for children to understand how to be a clown in the circus but it was just what I needed.

I became infatuated with learning how to be a clown so I could help my friend. I instead ended up helping myself! For just a few short months later, Eggo the clown decided not to continue his 2 year part time business of entertaining for children's parties.

He was giving his customers MY phone number!

This prompted me to get my drivers license so I could drive to my first party all the way to La Mirada. Boy was I scared. I talked my slightly younger brother into going with me.

That was the first & LAST time he dressed as a clown, but continued to assist me for several other parties until the year 2000. In that time my 7 year old sister started working with me most regularly thus becoming "Charm and Happy Clowns 4 all!"

A couple of clowns Yo-Yo & Yo-Ya called me one day to help them start a clown club. We did. A group of about 15 local clowns to date still keep in touch and remained the very best of clown friends all these years after learning from each other and genuinely enjoying each others company and growth in the clown business.

I wish I could remember the club name. It no longer exists for we all just got so busy. I believe it was called "Pueblo de Payasitos Latinos - Latin Clowny Town".

At Grant Rea Park in Montebello, CA,, a clown named Doodle approached me after my show. She asked if I was hiring. Heh! I was flattered that someone thought I had a business doing well enough to ask if I was hiring.

I did end up hiring her, her boyfriend, her cousin and a few more clowns she knew. CharmandHappy was literally turning down so much work that hiring these new clown workers made sense now.

After years of saving money to start my own Graphics House business, I was able to buy equipment for my home office and accept side jobs creating Desktop Publishing now called "Graphic Arts". I thought since I was creating magazines, ads, flyers, forms, logos and the like for customers, then heck, why not use these same efforts to start my own Clown business. I was getting hired EVERY weekend and was interested in expanding. I started making much, much, much more money with my part-time clowning business then my full time job.

In 1998, now online, CharmandHappy.com went full time with a business license, insurance, regular clients & approx. $30,000 in a savings account.

After looking at several listings for clowns, party planners and family entertainers in the yellow pages, church bulletins, newspapers, local circulations & magazines, I decided that I wanted to be where the "Big Dogs" were.

So I began to INVEST some of my savings into advertising so I could keep not only myself busy, but my new team busy EVERY weekend. Worked like a Charm!

***But what worked best was good old fashioned footwork. At Jungle Solutions, a real estate marketing printshop firm, I learned how real estate agents set themselves apart from the general real estate agent. Mostly, those clients just had to have really big egos, but they pushed "Personality",rather than "real estate".

*** At Dominoes Pizza, located in Pico Rivera, CA (one of my first teenage jobs), I learned that for every pizza delivery, the driver would take a coupon and deliver it to a customer, then also one house to the left and one house to the right to help triple odds of new &repeat clients.

***At Sir Speedy Printing located in Commerce, CA, I learned that if there was a job that we did not or could not complete "in-house", then we worked with a trustworthy company who could, so we could still provide the service for the client and make a small profit as well.

***Visiting and talking to workers, owners, managers at party shops, bakeries, pre-schools, flower shops, children's clothing, etc. helped to get the flow of referrals to CharmandHappy better than expected.

That was the basis of how "CharmandHappy" began to grow. By accepting reservations not only for clowns, but for other forms of Party entertainment like pony rides, jumpers, reptile presentations, online party goods, personalized photo birthday buttons, etc.

What I did not plan or expect was the lack of dedication & work moral some hired help displayed. Calling in last minute or not at all. This caused GREAT turmoil for my client & myself as I did what I could to rectify certain situations.

Since being online and getting orders now nationwide, it was hard to determine one’s dedication. After a few mishaps so to speak, I re-evaluated the purpose and goals for CharmandHappy.

The end result was I wanted Qualified, Skilled & Dedicated team members. Even though I made a ton of money, I had to make the choice to release & never again hire several team members. I didn't care that I'd make less financially. I cared more about the CharmandHappy reputation and client satisfaction much more.

To date, I still attend workshops, conventions, read books, watch dvd's to help me to continue my growth as a business person and a family entertainer. My focus for the last several years has been developing myself into a "Specialty Artist Entertainer". To feature the best of what I can offer.

I'm not actually the best at any of them, but I try my best and my clients recognize, appreciate & keep calling as well as referring others.

That's my story & I'm sticking to it!

Carmen@CharmandHappy.com
- Artist Entertainer with a Twist of Charm -

http://www.CharmandHappy.com
877-725-6967 office
562-237-3327 cell
Face Painter - Balloon Artist
Whittier (Los Angeles) CA

Edited by John Abrams
www.rebelentertainers.com
www.facebook.com/rebelentertainers
www.twitter.com/johnabrams1

Times, they are a changin'

2009-11-09T14:20:00.000-08:00

If you're not taking advantage of the social media networking sites (twitter, facebook, youtube, etc), you're about to miss the boat.

I'm not talking about the fun and frolicking Carnival cruise. I'm talking about the next wave in marketing. It's here. Right now.

If you don't believe me, here are the stats:

- There are over 75 million videos on youtube. Youtube is now watched more than ABC, CBS, ABC and FOX combined

- People 19 - 34 years old (the prime buying demographic) spend more time on social media networking sites than on TV, Radio & Newspapers COMBINED.

Facebook is huge. People are still trying to figure out "why twitter", but don't let that fool you. It is catching on.

These sites will come and go. But right now they're killing radio and TV advertising. Add the advent of TIVO/DVR and the fall of your local and national newspapers, you're talking about having to completely re-invent how people get their message out.

A few weeks ago I sent out a 4 part course on marketing with Facebook. Take it seriously. Social networking sites are here to stay! (at least until the next shiny thing comes along)

And yes, you'll notice that I've listed my social networking sites after my signature. You're welcome to friend me or follow me, but more importantly, I'd like to see you listing yours.

P.S. If you liked this blog, be sure to comment. It really helps me if you give me your feedback.

- John Abrams
Rebel Entertainer and Guy that's becoming more and more social every day!

www.rebelentertainers.com

Friend me on www.facebook.com/rebelentertainer
Twitter @johnabrams1

Teri Stokes - How’d she book 67 shows in one day?

2009-10-25T11:41:00.000-07:00

Last week I wrote to you about taking massive action and asked what you had done. Well, I got quite a few people telling me what they had recently done to drum up business in this “glass half empty“ economy.

By far, the most impressive was Teri Stokes AKA Happy Heart the Clown. Everything she did was a great lesson in marketing and making money with a very small investment.

Here’s what she wrote and what she did (edited):

“You rock as always, John. Last Thursday I bought a table at a taste of the town and handed out 300 cards.

I won the decorating contest. Received an award and a plaque by City of Houston Mayor’s office.

Picture will be in paper.

Booked a kids night at a Country Club (monthly). Booked one more night at a different Chick-Fila (weekly) and a few more events.

I guess it’s worth it to show off once in while (you asked ). Oh yeah and having a blast.

One thing I wish I would of done instead of handing out cards is hand out coupons for a percentage off. I didn’t think of it ‘till I was at the venue.

Glad you are back,

Teri"

Terrific work Teri!!! If you add up the 12 monthly gigs plus the 52 weekly plus a few mixed extras mixed in, that equals at least 67 shows. All booked in one day.

And by the way, this doesn’t even count the many referrals you’ll get by promoting yourself at these gigs.

Great job.

John Abrams
Rebel Entertainer and Guy That is Inspired by Other’s Work
www.rebelentertainers.com
www.facebook.com/rebelentertainers
Twitter: @johnabrams1

Oh Crud, I lost My Snake!

2009-08-21T07:55:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, I came back from a weekend in Vegas. Only to discover that my Snake had escaped!

Ok. I hear you snickering. It's the Ball Python that I use in one of my shows. I'm in the middle of a 100 show summer, and one of the stars of the shows is missing.

Ok. Go to plan B - The Bunny. Not as high of an impact, but has the awe factor.

Then, a few days ago, I'm driving to San Diego for a couple of shows and realized that I didn't have a couple of props.

Ok. Go to plan B - Use toilet paper for Dove appearance.

Last week at a Library show, the librarian told me that he (yes, a man librarian - I shall call him a libariman) needed me to shorten the show by 10 minutes.

Ok. Go to plan B - Take out the tortoise trick.

Do you have a plan B for all of your routines? What if you'd forgotten props or had to shorten or lengthen the show? Do you have enough material ready? Can you cut something without ruining the structure of your show?

I used to always keep a little case with a couple of sets of all my parishable props. I do again now. Not a bad idea.

Are you prepared? If not, take a look at all your routines and come up with Plan B.

Also, I'd love to hear your stories of how you McGyvered your show.

Oh, I know you're wondering... I did find her and she's safe and sound in her heated snake condo.

-John
Rebel Entertainer and The Man With The Plan
http://www.rebelentertainers.com/
www.facebook.com/rebelentertainer

The Art of Repitition

2009-08-04T19:23:00.000-07:00

I was driving down the 91 freeway on my way home from a show, and saw something very different. It was a billboard for the Lapband. I guess it's some kind of weight loss surgery or something. I'm not sure and I really don't care.

BUT, here's the odd thing. There wasn't just one sign. There were three huge billboards. Of the exact same sign. The EXACT SAME. One right after the other.

It caught my eye not because it was a good billboard, but because there were three of 'em.

Then, this weekend, I was in Vegas and I noticed the same thing. Giant billboards advertising the exact same act. One billboard right next to another right next to another. Three in a row.

Then, driving back from Vegas (a torturous, traffic packed 8 hour durge that should have only taken about 4 hours), there were signs that advertised Alien Jerky.

I think I've written about that before.It starts out "Alien Jerky 50 miles". Then the next "Alien Jerky 30 miles" then "10 miles" then "Next exit". Well you gotta stop and get yourself some Alien Jerky!

It's the art of repetition. If you're not using it in your marketing, then you're not marketing right!

Here are a few ways to do it:

-Three or four letter campaigns
-Three ads exactly the same in a magazine
-Three separate thank you cards

People don't always respond to one single contact. The more you contact someone, the more they'll respond. In fact, it'll increase your response rate exponentially.
What other ways can you use The Art of Repitition? I'd like to hear YOUR ideas. I've started a discussion on my Rebel Entertainers Facebook Fan Page. Check it out and join in with your own.

-John
-John
-John
Rebel Entertainer
Rebel Entertainer
Rebel Entertainer
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You Can BITCH and MOAN About The Economy When...

2009-07-23T19:56:00.000-07:00

One of my pet peeves is the darn media incessantly Bitching and Moaning and droaning on and on about the state of the economy. Daily stats on unemployement. Minute by minute reports on why the stimulus packages isn‘t working. Weekly griping about CEOs still taking huge bonuses. ENOUGH!

Well, as the lead Rebel Entertainer and someone who is always thinking of every possible way to keep ahead of this “new economy”, I thought I’d give you license to Bitch and Moan. You read that right. I am officially giving you license to bitch and moan about the economy.

BUT... you have to meet some qualifications. Here they are:

You can bitch and moan about the economy if....

You’ve created and implemented a 5 - 10 step email campaign for anybody who visits your website or requests info about your services.

You can bitch and moan about the economy if....

You’ve contacted all CURRENT customers at least 3 times in the last three months by email, mail or phone.

You can bitch and moan about the economy if....

You’ve contacted all PAST and DEAD customers to find out why they left and see if they are in need of your services now.

You can bitch and moan about the economy if....

You’ve created a new show or brand new services that you can present to your current and new customers.

You can bitch and moan about the economy if....

You’ve started an entire new campaign either through direct mail or website or magazine ads or Facebook or Twitter and every other media you can think of to get NEW customers.

You can bitch and moan about the economy if....

You’ve contacted all agents and party planners around your area.

You can bitch and moan about the economy if....

You’ve attended every convention and expo within your target market.

You can bitch and moan about the economy if....

You’ve become a member of your local Chamber of Commerce and contacted every business in the Chamber about your services

You can bitch and moan about the economy if....

You’re blogging regularly to your target market.

OK. If you’ve taken every single one of these actions and you’re still struggling with making money in this economy, then you are officially licensed to Bitch and Moan.

- John
Rebel Entertainer and Official Licenser of The Bitchers and Moaners
www.rebelentertainers.com
www.facebook.com/rebelentertainers

Michael Jackson and Me...

2009-06-25T21:15:00.000-07:00

I was a 9 year old boy living in Los Angeles. My parents had just gotten divorced and my Mom was dating a new guy that was soon to be my evil stepfather.

Mom came to me and my brothers with news that we were going to Las Vegas for some wild fun.

Back then Vegas was different. It wasn't as family friendly as it is now. It was a different world.

I was excited about seeing the flash and dazzle of Vegas. We drove for about five hours and, then, in the middle of desert, the sky was completely lit up.

I imagined the Pleasure Island that was portrayed in Pinocchio. Adventure, games, and a bit of mischief was just over the horizon.

We arrived and checked into the hotel. Within minutes, my Mom and soon-to-be step dad hustled us out of the room, took us down the elevator, and introduced us to a small room in the basement of the hotel.

This was the room that all the parents left their kids while Mom & Dad gambled.

My brothers and I spent three days, off and on, in that playroom. It was fun, but it certainly wasn't what I had imagined.

After three days, we were in our hotel room and my Mom and "soon-to-be" walked in. They were giggly and laughy and broke the news to us. The "soon to be" was now a real live step dad.

They had married late that night.

I was shocked and confused and happy and sad and jealous and angry and excited all at once.

That night they broke some other news to us. News that I didn't realize at the time, would affect me just as profoundly.

To celebrate the new nuptials, we were gonna see this group called The Jackson Five. I didn't know who they were (heck, I was nine). I didn't know who Michael Jackson was. I had never been to a concert. I had never even seen the inside of a Vegas showroom before. THIS WAS EXCITING.

I was told to put on my best clothes. They led us down that same elevator. But this time, we walked through the casino. Lights, slots, money jingling, people cheering.

We walked into the showroom. Everybody was dressed to the nines. We sat in a luxurious red velvet booth that sat our whole family. We all ordered drinks. I had my first Rob Roy (like a Shirley Temple for boys). I felt like the prince of Las Vegas.

There was a full band. Drums, electric guitars, keyboards, strings, the whole magilla.

Then the music started. I don't know if it was the sugar from the Rob Roy or whether it really was as amazing as I imagined. But, there, unfolding right in front of my very eyes, was the most spectacular thing I had ever seen.

Four guys, doing things that I never imagined. Singing, dancing, fun, funny, flash and dazzle.

Then the big voice came over the loud speaker "Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome, little Michael Jackson". The crowd went wild.

Out came a fourteen year old Michael. Singing songs that I KNEW! Songs I had heard on the radio. I'll Be There, ABC, Rockin' Robin. Moving in ways that I didn't know was possible. He humbled the talent of the rest of his family.

For the next two hours I was transfixed. Every problem, concern, worry and every bit of uncertainty melted away. For those two hours there was nothing else in the world that mattered.

At the end of the performance I knew. I knew that there was nothing else in the world that would be worthy of doing. I knew that I had to be an entertainer. I had to do what they were doing.

Well, life went on. The guy my Mom married turned into a nightmare. I moved out to live with my real Dad and my brothers moved away to live my grandparents.

But I never forgot that one night. The night that Michael Jackson made me feel safe and secure in knowing my own future.

I can only hope that someday a child will see my own show, be inspired and walk out secure in their own future.

-John
Rebel Entertainer

Lucky Schmucky!

2009-06-09T06:42:00.000-07:00

"Shallow people believe in luck. Wise & strong people believe in cause and effect"

Ralph Waldo Emerson

After a 3-show day, I was at a party talking to a friend of mine that was (and sometimes still is) a drummer in a band. He’d never made his living as a musician and settled for working landscaping to pay his bills. I’ll get to that in a minute.

He remembered that a couple of years ago I was writing a course on “How to make money performing”. He asked how it was going.

Well, I told him that I finished it a while back and that there are a number folks finally making their living performing when they thought it was impossible.

I also told him that these people were realizing that anybody with a little talent and a commitment to succeed could make their living in their art. All they needed was the marketing to it.

Then he said something that just pissed me off….

He said “Yeah, but didn’t you just get lucky?”

He was referring to my Animal Magic Show. He was suggesting that I just “got lucky” when I put it together and starting making MY living as an entertainer.

I thought to myself Yeah…

It was lucky that I put together a show that kids and parents love.

It was lucky that I studied all the great marketers for hours on end (and still do) to try and figure out how to sell my show.

It was lucky that I put an ad in the yellow pages (no internet back then) that booked tons of gigs.
It was lucky that I created a direct mail campaign that helped me dominate market after market.

It was lucky that I created another show just as successful as Animal Magic for a completely different market.

It was lucky that I created 2 completely separate websites that booked way more shows!

All of these steps were obviously some stroke of luck that just happen to bring me success.

Bulls#&t!

Luck is getting discovered at the cash register of a Piggly Wiggly and hired to star in a major motion picture.

Making your living as an entertainer is a matter of dedication, smart marketing and a strong will to succeed (with a little talent mixed in). That’s it.

How bad do YOU want it? Ya see, my drummer friend was never that committed. He never believed it was possible. He never learned to “work smart”. He never learned the real business of the business.

And here's the funniest thing. When I told him a brief summary of how the system works, his comment was "Isn't that selling out". No my friend. Selling out is continuing to work a job that you hate when the answer is right in front of you.

You on the other hand, have already made the commitment by joining Rebel Entertainers and reading this blog.

If you’d like to see every step I took in creating a hugely successful performing business, the steps that got me “lucky”, you can find them in the Rebel Entertainers’ Success System.

Not only is it an entire manual of marketing 101, but it has every marketing piece that I’ve used to build my business. And you get the rights to simply change the documents to your information and be booking shows almost overnight.

If you already have it, congrats.

Here’s the link: John's "Lucky" Success System

-John

Rebel Entertainer and Lucky Schmuck

Children's Entertainer Horror Story - The Angry Paranoid Guy

2009-06-01T05:00:00.000-07:00

This was so bizarre, I just had to tell you about it.

So, last week I was driving to a school show in Glendora (Ca). I got off the freeway just like I always do. I followed my mapquest turn by turn like I always do. I pulled up to the curb in front of the church/school like I always do.

I took a look at the school and noticed that it'd be easier to load in if I moved forward about 20 feet. I did.

I also noticed that I was about 10 minutes too early to load in. So I grabbed my cell phone and starting checking my messages.

Well, suddenly there's a guy knocking on my driver's side car window. He was a medium sized dude, about 35 years old, with a work shirt on that read "something" Heating & Cooling.

I rolled down the window slightly (it is L.A. after all) and asked "Can I help you?".

The guy seemed really agitated and said "Why are you following me!?"

I said "What?"

A bit more agitated, he asked again "Why are you following me!?"

I said "I wasn't following you."

He said "Then what are doing here!?"

It suddenly struck me that he probably got off the freeway where I did (in front of me), and probably made every single turn I did. I hadn't even noticed his car. I was too busy trying to figure out where the hell I was going.

I said "I'm doing a magic show for this school. It's now 8:20 and I had an extra few minutes before I had to load in, so I'm listening to my messages."

So he said "You're telling me that you followed me all the way from the freeway and you JUST COINCIDENTALLY parked right behind me. We just coincidentally were driving to the same place."

I said "Yah. Here's the contract with the name of the school and the time and the date. I'm doing a magic show at this school in about a half an hour".
He said “Well that’s awfully coincidental, don’t ya think!?”

At that point in time I looked forward and noticed that he had a kid in his car. I realized that he was implying that I had some evil ulterior motive. That I had concocted a complex plot to do some rotten thing. That I figured out who the contact at the school was, created a fake contract, got dressed up in a magicians costume, loaded all sorts of critters in the car, followed him to that particular spot, and was ready to make my move.

I said “Yah, it is awfully coincidental”

He said “Who’s your contact?”

I looked on the contract and told him who my contact was. Then I asked if he knew who she was.
He said he did.

And then he tagged one more time “It’s just a coincidence. I find that hard to believe!”

And said he was going to find out what was really going on.

I said “Fine.”

Well, of course, I made a beeline to the school office and explained the situation to my contact.

The man took his child to her class and was walking out when I was walking with my contact to the venue to set up the show.

I said “Did you find out that I’m here to do a show?”

He said “Yah. But I had to protect my child.”

No apology. No “Gee, sorry for the misunderstanding”. No “Have fun”. Nothing. In fact, he seemed ready to get into some crazy physical altercation.

Turns out he had questioned the teacher. “What’s he here for? How long has he been doing this? Have you ever seen him before?....”

This was the fifth year in a row I had performed at this school.

He just stormed off still pissed that I was even in the vicinity.

So I took my boot and kicked him right in the groin. As he laid on the ground I laughed maniacally and pointed at him ... Ok. I made up that part. I just wanted to make sure you were still paying attention.

But he really did leave still all angry. Angry at me, at the world, at him for making an ass of himself.

The Big Lesson

Now I have complete confidence in the human race. I believe that 99% of world’s population are pretty logical and pretty cool. But there are still those crazy 1% that are paranoid and illogically thinking that the world is somehow out to get them.

I don’t pretend to know what was going through this guy’s head. Maybe he was going through a divorce and being followed by a private eye. Maybe he had prior experience with his child be kidnapped. I don’t know.

But I do know this. As children’s entertainers we need to keep an eye out for anything that we do that can be PERCEIVED as dangerous or lascivious in any way.

We are here to make children happy and to make their parents feel secure in knowing that they are taken care of. That’s our job.

- John
Rebel Entertainer and Guy that’s just trying to do my job
www.RebelEntertainer.com

Another Brilliant Marketing Strategy for Variety Artists

2009-05-20T10:46:00.000-07:00

You must read this entire post to understand the BRILLIANCE of this strategy. Here we go...

The owner of the Yardhouse restaurant chain spoke at a high-end charity function on Sunday night.

He made a very special offer to the crowd at hand. He was offering 200 gift card opportunities for his restaurant. The cards were worth $25.00 each towards food at the Yardhouse. You had to commit to a year's worth (12 gift cards, total $300.00). You could buy them all in a batch or commit to one a month.

But here's the spin. All the money he received for the gift cards would be DONATED TO THE CHARITY (a wonderful children's fund).

He was only offering them that night until 9:30. So we had to act fast.

Well, to me this was a no-brainer. I'm giving $25.00 a month to a really cool charity and getting $25.00 worth of good food. Plus it'll get my butt out of the house once a month.

From a marketing standpoint I thought "What? Is this guy stupid? He's selling gift cards but he's giving away all his profits from the transaction".

Then I started thinking about it. Here's what he really did:

1.) Let's face it, if you go to the Yardhouse you'll be spending a helluva lot more than 25 bucks. I have a wife and kids. I imagine my bill will be closer to the hundred dollar mark. Twelve separate times. Even with the gift card, that's $75.00 profit X 12 months. That's a brand new customer that's going to spend $900.00 a year at one of his restaurants.

2.) Less than 50% of gift certificates are actually redeemed. So even if you did go to the restaurant and only spend the $25.00, his exposure is minimal.

3.) Chances are I'm not gonna go every month. But it's likely that I'll give the card to a friend if I'm not using it. There's another new customer.

4.) If he sells all 200 opportunities, that's $6,000 he's giving to a charity. That's gotta make he and the charity feel pretty good. I'm sure he's using that as a promotional tool "Yardhouse donates $6000.00 to children's charity." Heck, might even make the news.

5.) How much money has come out of his pocket? Zero! Ok, maybe the price to print the cards. A small price to pay.

6.) Lastly, guess who's going to be telling everybody that the Yardhouse donated $6000 to their charity? Answer: The Charity. They will definitely be the restaurant's own personal viral cheering section.

So, let's review. They donated $6000.00 to a good charity. They've brought in a ton of new customers. They've made a huge profit for every card redeemed. If they played their cards right, they got great press for it. Their exposure was minimal. And it cost them nothing.

WOW!

Now, how can you use this info? The obvious answer is to create a gift card or gift certificate. But there are a few rules.

First, the gift card must be in an amount that is less than your services cost. 25% is a good start. For example, if you normally charge $400.00 for an event, make the gift card for $100.00. That way when someone does redeem it, they will have to pay you 75% of your normal fee. Hint: Write on the gift card "Can not be combined with other gift cards or other offers"

Secondly, you can certainly put them on your website individually, but the best way to sell them is in bulk at a discounted rate. For example, sell them to real estate agents. Offer ten $100.00 gift certificates at a discounted rate of only $50.00 each. They can then give them to their clients.

Lastly, the press comes with the charity. You can do this with or without giving the money to the charity of your choice. But that's where the free publicity comes in.

Final note: I've donated many of these types of gift certificates in silent auctions and such, always with the stipulation that the client put me in the program as a sponsor AND that the gift certificate is used to increase the value of an already existing gift or gift basket.

Nobody has ever redeemed one. I'm convinced that either I suck really bad, or, more likely, when someone buys the gift basket, my certificate isn't the thing that they had they're heart set on.

That's a tons of free advertising!

But don't limit yourself to that scenario. Be creative with your gifts. Remember, they are gifts.

-John
Rebel Entertainer and Gift Giver
www.RebelEntertainers.com

Learning from Wango Tango

2009-05-12T09:22:00.000-07:00

Let's Take Advantage Of the Big Brains!

Last Saturday I took Lily and two of her little friends to see the KIIS FM concert Wango Tango. The line up was… get this: Jamie Fox, The Black Eyed Peas, Kelly Clarkson, Lady GaGa, Flo Rida, All American Rejects, Soulja Boy, and many more.

You may or may not have heard of all these folks, but believe me, they are all huge names in the current hip hop and pop rock world. Hundreds of thousands of dollars were put into this concert.

From an entertainer’s marketing eye, I took a look at what the promoters did before, during and after the show, and have broken it down for you. Ways you can use these same techniques in promoting your own stuff and making more money.

Here we go:

1.) Tickets ran from about $85.00 to about $800.00. The 15,000 seat venue was sold out. If you don’t think that there’s money available in this tough economy, take a look at that. If it’s something people want, they’ll pay.

2.) Even at that price, I don’t think ticket sales were enough to pay all 12 big name bands. They had sponsors, and a lot of them. Have you thought about going after some sponsors for your show?

3.) Outside the stadium, before the concert, they had all kinds of food and merchandise booths set up. Thousands were made before you even walked into the concert. What can you sell before your event even starts?

4.) Unadvertised bonus! They had a small stage set up outside the stadium that had smaller acts playing as you waited. One of them was Mitchell Musso (the sidekick on the Hannah Montana show). This was the highlight of Lily’s day. This was something above and beyond what was advertised. What extra service are giving that you don’t even mention in your sales pitch? One that will thrill your customer.

5.) Every single band mentioned that they were about to release a new album or that you could download the song you just heard on ITunes. Are you promoting your products or services during your show? If now, why not?

6.) Throughout the show, an airplane flew over the stadium a bunch of times promoting different bands’ new albums with lights on the wings and body of the plane. Ok. This one is insanely over the top. But it adds to the whole event.

7.) On each side of the stage, there were 50 foot signs with the pictures of all the acts appearing. Do you have a sign with your name and website visible when you’re performing? It doesn’t have to be 50 feet tall. It just needs to be visible.

8.) A local car dealership had a raffle for a free Prius. Maybe you can’t give away a car, but what are you giving for free?

Too many more lessons to list all here. But if you ever get a chance to go to a major concert, keep your Rebel Entertainer’s marketing eyes open.

- John
Rebel Entertainer and Wango Tango-er
www.RebelEntertainer.com

Why Susan Boyle?

2009-04-29T06:30:00.000-07:00

How Can You Do What Susan Boyle Did?

If you haven't heard of Susan Boyle yet, you've been living under a rock. She's the lady that sang on Britain's got talent and has one of the most viral videos of all time.

More people have viewed her singing debut than watched the Superbowl last year.

But why did this video go so viral. What made it so amazing? Wouldn't you love to use a bit of what she used (even if she didn't know it) in your own performances.
Well, here ya go...

It can be broken down into an emotional state called "Elevation".

Psychologist Lynne Johnson defines this emotional state as: "Characterized by a warm, glowing feeling that we get when someone TRANSCENDS OUR EXPECTATION."

That's it.

When Susan Boyle first came on stage, everybody expected her to fail. She wasn't great looking. She was a bit older. Her appearance certainly wasn't that of the next Britain Idol. But then she transcended everyone's expectations and blew everybody away.

There are two glaring truths about this.

First, if she was super hot looking, people may have loved her, but she wouldn't have put everybody in that elevated state.

Secondly, her looks and character (and of course her talent) worked FOR her in a dramatic way.

As variety artists, we can use this "Elevation" every time we perform.

Let's face it. When most people hire a clown, twister, mime, magician (unless it's corporate), storyteller or juggler, they have certain expectations. Most of the general public thinks that we're all the same.

We can use that expectation to our advantage.

When I first started performing for kids, I used that expectation to my advantage. In fact, my first USP was "Exceeding Your Expectations". I used that because I knew that a lot of children's entertainers in my area had acts that were all the same.

Whether they were clowns, magicians, or disney type characters, they all did the big parachute thing, the broken magic wand, the candy out of the dove pan, and a few easy balloon animals.

Now all these activities are fine and dandy and fun for the kids. And my guess is that I'm offending some folks that are reading this and are still doing those activities.

But, when I arrived at that same party, made a chinchilla appear out of fire, turned a fake snake into a live one, and had the kids and the parents laughing harder than they ever have, I completely "transcended their expectations".

This original presentation - way different than anything anybody had ever seen - booked me more referrals than I could count.

They expected one thing, and were blown away to discover there was something much much more available.

Now, I'm not telling you all this to brag. And I'm not suggesting that you do magic with live animals. I'm telling you this because I want you to be creating original presentations that will "Transcend Everybody's Expectations".

What is everybody else doing? Do it better and more original than everyone in your market, and you are guaranteed to be successful.

- John
Rebel Entertainer and Guy That Wishes He Had the Talent of Susan Boyle
www.RebelEntertainers.com

Bathroom Marketing

2009-04-24T07:00:00.000-07:00

How a guy let ten dollar bills just fly on by!

I was driving to a couple of school shows last Friday. The school was in the middle of the desert and I'd been driving for about an hour and half.

I had to go to the bathroom and I thought it'd be wise to stop before I got to the school. That way I wouldn't have to run in and say "Hi, I'm John and I gotta pee!".

So, on the side of the road was something called a trading post. It was the only thing within about 40 miles. Basically, it looked like two shops next to each other. One had Indian rugs and such, and the other was more like a liquor store: Beer, sandwiches, water, sodas etc... They were obviously owned by the same person.

So, I walked up to the front and asked the trading post guy who looked like the manager/owner "Do you have a bathroom?" He fumbled for an answer for a second and then said "Are you a customer?"

Now he didn't know if I was a customer or not. He didn't know whether or not I had a hundred dollar bill burning a hole in my pocket to spend on his rugs, water and beer. All he knew is that he didn't want anybody using his bathroom that wasn't spending money FIRST.

So, of course he said, "No. This is not a public bathroom!" with a bit of a bad attitude.

I crossed my legs, grumbled a bit, got back in my car and went to the school and said "Hi, I'm John Abrams, can I use your bathroom before I get started?"

Well, I used the restroom, set up the shows, shows went great, I packed up and was ready to take the long drive home.

Here's something trading post man didn't plan on. After my shows, I was starving! And I was thirsty. I had run out of water bottles (which I always keep in my car).

The trading post was literally two minutes from the school. I drove by and thought, I'm friggin' hungry and thirsty. And there's a trading post up ahead.

Oh, wait a minute. I'm not a customer! I can't stop there and buy their food or water or anything. So I drove about 40 miles to the next pit stop and fed and watered.

I only spent about ten bucks. But that's ten bucks that the trading post guy DIDN'T GET OUT ME.

There are thousands of cars driving by that stretch of road every day. How many people has trading post man pissed off (pardon the pun)? How many ten dollar bills has he let just pass on by?

Grabbing all those ten spots out of thin air sounds like an easy job to me.

How 'bout a sign that says "Driving long? Free bathroom break with every cup o' coffee." or "Thirsty? Make a pit stop and quench your thirst"

Heck, he's the only market within miles. People will stop!

But nope. He's satisfied with a bad attitude and terrible customer service and a dying business. There's a reason that the only stop for miles on a busy highway was COMPLETELY EMPTY!

Now it's time to take a look at your own business.

Are you bending over backwards to give your customers the best service possible? Are you offering something extra for free, or of amazing value? Or are you holding out, or giving an attitude, or doing things that don't necessarily promote your business in the perfect light?

What else can you do to make sure when people visit your trading post, they'll come back again and again?

- John
Rebel Entertainer and Guy Who Can't Hold His Bladder More Than 2 Hours
www.rebelentertainers.com

My Family's Experience with the Anaheim Hills Fires

2009-04-22T07:00:00.000-07:00

No marketing today. Just something kinda personal and interesting.

I live in Anaheim Hills. Last November we had to evacuate our house because the fire was literally a block and a half away from our house. Coming towards us! The smoke was unbearable.

So we loaded up the computer, the animals and the family in the Van and the PT Cruiser and headed out to a hotel in Newport beach. We were all a bit scared, but tried to turn it into an adventure. That night we ate barbecue (ironically) at Outback Steakhouse and stayed in a nice pet friendly hotel.

Well, two weeks ago, I was hiking in part of the valley that had burned. I took my dad because he’s into photography and I thought the photo opps were pretty awesome there. Burnt trees, new flowers, etc…

On our hike I found something very interesting. On the ground, between some burnt trees and some not burnt trees, was a half melted LIGHTER. It was one of those big gun-shaped fireplace lighters. And it was completely charred.

The CSI hairs on the back of my neck stood up!

So I video taped it and went to my local fire station to report it. Turns out, it had nothing to do with the big fires. But it probably was used by some homeless folks or teenagers to start a smaller spot fire.

I put the video on you tube. Here’s the link: Aftermath of Anaheim Hills Fire

I also took my family there afterwards to hike around and have some fun. Here’s the link for the video for that: Messin' Around in the Burnt Valley of Anaheim Hills

Both are pretty cool, because they show the burned out valley.

Have Fun.
John

Q & A Session - May 2009

2009-04-09T06:44:00.000-07:00

I have the smartest entertainers in the country in my Rebel Army. If you like what you're reading, spread the word.

Great questions, great lessons, so read on!

Terri Foust Rogers aka T. Tator Tot the clown asks:

Hi John, I read your "Free stuff" on your website and it says in your "Seven Deadly Sins" to use "Lust". I work with children and I see no way that I could use "lust" and still have a show that is good for kids and keep with having a great reputation. I understand that "sex" sells but when I dress as a clown or a vested entertainer and am working with children I don’t see it being possible. What suggestions would you have?

Answer:

Hey Teri,

I laughed out loud at the visual. Listen, there are many great suggestions on that report (Seven deadly sins of Rebel Marketing). Not every single one will be appropriate for every single show. In fact, I would never suggest you do any kind of sexual innuendo aimed at kids. It’s inappropriate and could lose you bookings.

BUT… I am now going to reveal something that will shock a lot of folks. You CAN do it in your marketing. Remember, you’re not marketing to children. The kids don’t pay the bill. You’re marketing to adults.

Here’s an idea. It’s outrageous, but if you’ve got the guts, this will get through the clutter of all the other clown’s material and I guarantee that you will get hired above all the rest. Hold your breath, here we go.

Market to all men’s social clubs in your area such as Rotary, Kiwanis, Lions, Elks, etc.. for a romantic evening with their wives. Your headline reads “Discover how a clown got me closer to my wife… if ya know what I mean” Got your attention?

Ok. Next, in your sales letter explain how a man needs those intimate moments and how YOU can supply it. How? While they're in the Elks club lounge having that romantic dinner, you're entertaining the kids with squeaky clean hilarious clowning.

They get romance, they don’t have to leave the kids home with a babysitter, and you get paid. You can even have a picture of “The happy couple” with a cut out of you in the back with the thumbs up. How’s that for lusty positioning and outrageous marketing!

By the way, any entertainer can use this marketing campaign.

Judah Buxton asked this next question:

John,

Could you give a list of some good "power words or phrases." By this I mean good solid words or phrases one might use in marketing brochures, as they speak to a prospective client, etc. What words have worked for you?

Answer:

Hey Judah,

Congrats on your win at Twist & Shout! This is one of my favorite subjects and it’s where most entertainers fall short in their websites and marketing. They have a tendency to show all sorts of pretty pictures without any direct motivation for the customer to call and hire them.

By far, the most powerful and influential word in sales is “FREE". You can use it in your pitches like this. Along with the show, each and every guest gets a Free doo-dad. Comes with a Free teachers guide and Free coloring sheet. An additional 15 minutes of walk around for Free. You can easily position this word in your show, all marketing and in your phone scripts.

Here are some others I use all the time.

Call RIGHT NOW to book the date that you want.
I personally Guarantee…
You’ll get or You’ll receive (Instead of this is what “I do”)
Hassle-Free
Imagine
Peace of mind

I also use three “power words” in my USP for Rebel Entertainers. See if you can pick them out: Inspiring Live Entertainers to Create Innovative Marketing & Breakthrough Performances.

Here are my favorite books that I highly recommend for wordsmithing:

Words that Work - Dr. Frank Luntz - By far THE BEST book on how to use specific words and phrasing to get what you want.
The Power of Outrageous Marketing - Joe Vitale - Has an amazing chapter on how to write great headlines.
Rebel Entertainers’ Success System - Oh, wait, that’s mine. Includes an entire copy writing seminar in a two Cd set.

The first two are also available as audio books.

Marsha Gallagher of Laughsbymodine asks:

What are your favorite sources for learning about trends in children's and family entertainment, and how do you keep ahead of the curve?

Answer:

You can certainly go online and read the Disney and Nickolodeon websites and blogs. But that’s just someone’s commercial interpretation of what kids like.

The real secret is this: Sit down with kids in your demographic and watch TV with them for a few hours. You’ll see exactly what they watch, exactly what they get exited about, and what’s in and what’s out. When you’re at a show, ask the kids who their favorite singers are, what TV shows they like, what movies are they into, what video games they like, what’s on their Ipod etc... If you have kids, it’s easy. If not, do you have nieces or nephews?

I’ve been lucky enough to be able to sit with my two kids day after day and watch what they watch. It’s really kept me up on what’s cool to them. Now my youngest is 11 and pretty soon I’ll have to turn into that weird creepy guy that watches children’s programming without any kids in the room. What we do for our art!

Leo Cruz had this question:

Hi John,

I am a balloon Artist/Decorator, in this area people have to see your talent to appreciate it and realize why your rates are higher than other Entertainers. I do promotions in Farmers Markets, and local restaurants. I spend a lot of time away from home but my name and skills are getting out and my bookings are increasing. In your business when you started, how much time did you dedicate to promote you services and how long would you say it took for your name to be well known?

Answer:

The definition of “Well known” is hard to quantify. For me, I’m satisfied when I’m completely booked up four or five days a week with two or three shows each day. It’s different for everybody.

I’ll be honest with you. When I first started, I knew nothing about marketing my show. I just put the ad in the yellow pages and expected the calls to come in. Well, since I did offer something completely unique, it took about a year and a half until I was booked up all the time (at the time, I was satisfied just booking up weekends).

By the time I was ready to attack my other markets I had created a system for getting to them and getting to them very quickly. This system includes direct mail, internet, magazine/directory ads, monthly newsletters etc… Now, when I attach a new market, it takes about 3-4 months to get that phone humming ALL THE TIME. All of those letters and marketing materials are available in my Success System ready for you to change with your own information and use as needed.

The initial attack is some work, but once you have all those loyal clients, it’s simply a matter of following them up and keeping them. The work obviously pays off.

By the way, if you are just marketing at the Farmers Markets and local restaurants, it will probably take quite a while. Think about it. There are 1000's of perspective customers that never attend either of those places. But if you’re willing to really do the work, you can charge way more and get booked way more often.

Oh, and also, the idea that people must see your talent to pay you more is a myth. They can be convinced of it in your marketing. You can also use video on your website.

Mike Shenhouse aka Balloon Man Mike asks:

Hi,

I was just asked this question today. How would you answer it? "Mike, How do you work the fundraiser events?"

Answer:

There are a lot of ways to do it, but a standard formula for fundraisers for schools, churches etc is this:

You offer a fundraising show that’s Free to the client. You supply them with all the materials to promote the show and the evening. The customer charges a certain amount at the door and you split the money from the ticket sales. You always have to build in a minimum fee for yourself, even if the split doesn’t add up to your fee. You must require at least your minimum fee, then the rest is gravy.

Also, make sure your client has snacks and other things to sell at intermission or after the show. You can also sell additional products to make more money for yourself. If your client has a problem with you selling stuff at their event, offer to split the profits.

Charlie Brust bought my Success System and had this question:

Hi John,

In the school market, do you find that sending out a series of three lead generation letters books more shows than sending out three variations of a full sales letter (different first page/different color paper)? I can see the importance of wanting to get people who are raising their hands that also makes them a more valuable prospect, but aren't you going to lose some leads when you make them do an extra step (have them ask for the full information/sales letter)? Have you ever tested this, or have any more thoughts or observations on this?

Answer:

Hey Charlie,

Once you have a show that’s appropriate, schools are all about two things: Timing and getting something (or as many things) in that PTA folder that they’ll keep and look at again and again.

In general, a prospect won’t read a long sales letter unless it was requested. Yes you want to use the 3 letter lead generation system to get them to raise their hand so you can send the most interested ones the follow ups AND something monthly for the rest of the school year: Newsletter, specials, gift certificates and other incentives.

But, in the 3 letter sequence I would sweeten the pot. Offer a gift certificate and a free bonus along with the free info. Also, I would have the sales letter available in e-mail or downloadable form for someone who needs the info right now.

And lastly, in your 3rd letter and in the free info pack, you need to send them something inexpensive with a summary of your program. But it’s gotta be something that will stand out in the folder and something that they are sure to keep (not just a three fold brochure). I have the perfect SECRET WEAPON for this, but because I’m using it myself right now I can’t give it away in this blog. I'll be releasing it soon on my DIABOLICAL MARKETING WEAPONS OF A REBEL ENTERTAINER.

But, since you bought my Success program, I’ll be happy to give it to you personally. Just shoot me out an email or give me a call.

Jason Vaughn asks:

John,

What is your weekly marketing/promotions schedule look like?

Answer:

Hey Jason,

Great to hear from another marketer.

It's pretty simple. It’s a spreadsheet that has my 3 major markets across the top. Then on the left hand column it has each week listed and then every corresponding holiday to remind me. Then in each column, under the specific markets, I’ve put the action I’m going to take. Actions range from prepping and sending my monthly newsletter, to reminders to current clients, holiday specials and even additional marketing for what was a slow month last year.

I don’t always get to every single thing on the calendar, but it keeps me moving.

That's it for this session. Make sure to visit www.rebelentertainers.com.

Thanks for all the questions.
- John Abrams
Rebel Entertainer

The Economy and Your Brain

2009-03-30T07:00:00.000-07:00

I'm friggin' sick and tired of the news. I understand that people are being laid off and that banks are going out of business and that we're all going to be swallowed up by a giant vortex of financial ruin, that we'll become a third world country, that cats will be eating dogs and that Godzilla is invading wallstreet.... ENOUGH ALREADY!

I know that this economy has affected a lot of people. But, believe it or not, listening to the media's doom and gloom only perpetuates the problem.

The stock market (and every other financial institution) increases and decreases value through speculation, through confidence and through fear. The more we listen to and accept the media’s interpretation of the financial status of America, the less confidence the consumer has, the more we’ll be sucked into that vortex.

How does this constant barrage of hysteria help you or me? It doesn’t! It only depresses us all - even people who are not directly affected by the economy.

What can we as Rebel Entertainers do about it? Here’s what. Turn off the friggin’ news every time you hear about death and destruction. Change the channels on the TV when they talk about “financial collapse”. Clear your mind of all the doom and gloom.

Replace that time with education on how we can market our shows better. Inspirational success stories. Take this time to re-tool your business. Re-tool your services. Re-tool your thoughts.
We are Americans, damn it. We’re a creative, innovative people that are not controlled by the reportings of the media.

I’m not being blind to facts of the economy. I understand very well what’s going on, but I also understand the effects that the media has on our psyche.

Here’s some good news that they don’t report:

Battery Companies - Business is up because people are keeping their electronic devices longer.

Vasectomy surgeons’ - business is (pardon the expression) up.

Bowling Alleys - Business is up because people are looking for cheaper entertainment.

Auto Repair Shops - Business is up because people are keeping their cars longer instead of buying new ones.

Grocery Stores - Most are up because people are eating out less.

Comfort Foods (junk food) - Business is up because people eat when they’re depressed.

Here’s something else. People that had ten million dollars in the bank, still have five or six million left. Our fees are still a drop in the bucket to the affluent. If you want to make some money, you may have to sell to a different market, or re-think your marketing. But the money is still out there.

Here’s something else that most people won’t tell you. Now is the time to INCREASE your marketing, not decrease your marketing.

Why? It’s simple Very soon, you will see less competition in your markets. Less direct mail, less ads, less everything. Entertainers will be going out of business right and left. The people that are aggressive NOW, will keep the lions share of the business. A year ago, I saw the writing on the walls. Instead of being timid, I did a HUGE marketing campaign for my particular market and literally took a number of my competitors out of the game. While they were waiting people to call, I was going after the calls.

In this economy, only the very best will survive. The entertainers that are sitting by their phone, just waiting for it to ring, will die on the vine. Being depressed and being in-active is not the way to go. Instead, take this opportunity to be aggressive and go for it.

It’s time to market smarter and more thoughtfully. Turn the negative TV and Radio time into positive study time!

Only when we change our attitudes about the economy and our own businesses will the economy start to turn around.

Q & A Session - April 2009

2009-03-06T07:30:00.000-08:00

You got questions, I got answers!

Whew! Lots of great questions. Tons of useful info in this blog. If you like what you’re reading here, and if you’ve been liking the emails I’ve been sending, can ya do me a favor? Get on the discussion boards for your particular variety art and talk up RebelEntertainers.com. It’s the best way to spread the word so we can help more people succeed.

Allright, on with your questions….

Jonathan Fudge of Florida writes:

QUESTION: I'm looking for content on my blog that birthday moms will enjoy. I've read through your (Show Building) course so I know it says to ASK them what they want. They responded with the following: -"Entertaining and educational activities for different aged children 1-3, 4-6, 7-12".

Where can I find the specific content I'm looking for in those categories?

ANSWER:
Great idea Jonathan. Any time you can supply a potential customer with information that they need, you are more likely to sell them and keep them coming back for more. Here’s a few for ya:

http://www.familyfun.go.com/ - Fun site sponsored by Disney. Even has ideas broken down into ages.
http://www.amazingmoms.com/ - Fun site sponsored by Highlights
http://www.familycircle.com/ - A national magazine
http://www.fathermag.com/ - An occasional dad blog isn’t a bad idea
http://www.informedparent.com/ - Online mag with articles and advice from experts

Here’s some books I found on Amazon. All under $10.00 and some for only a few pennies.

Great Big Book of Children's Games by Derba Wise
Games Magazine Junior Kids' Big Book of Games by Karen C. Anderson
Kids Summer Games Book, The: Official Book of Games to Play (Family Fun) by Jane Drake, Ann Love, and Heather Collins
Collect-n-make Crafts For Kids (Teacher Training Series) by Susan L. Lingo
Better Homes and Gardens Holiday Crafts Kids Can Make by "Better Homes and Gardens"
One Hundred Twenty Three Gift Crafts Kids Can Make (Highlights Creative Crafts Series)

Good luck. Hope it helps.

Travis Schwartz of Houston, PA wrote:

QUESTION: What kind of equipment do you use for small outside birthday parties, larger outside parties, and on stage in front of a 1000 people? And has anything blown out during a performance?

ANSWER: I use music and a Shure cordless mic in ALL of my shows. It saves my voice and allows more dynamics in the show. I personally use a Passport 150 for almost all my events. That sucker can blast up to 400 people - outdoors. I do use a few little tricks to boost the volume, but it will definitely work for almost any small to medium venue. It has 4 inputs for music and mics and has simple equalizers for each. And it’s very inexpensive and super durable. For a smaller event (birthday, classroom, etc…) I use the exact same system, but I only use one speaker.

For extra large events (over 500 or so), the client must supply the sound system. I have attachments for my Ipod, my cordless and my remote system that are compatible to just about any large sound system.

For emergencies, I have a passport 250. I'll use it if my other one dies. I just hate to take it out of my garage.

It did blow out on me once years ago. Literally blew a fuse. Yes the show went on. I did it without. Luckily it was a small b-day and nobody really knew the diff.

Karen Sidell writes:

QUESTION: As I am new to the industry, I am wondering how one goes about creating the initial call from the potential client, and then how to sell to them once they are on the line?

ANSWER: Ah, Karen, that’s two completely different questions. I’m feeling extra saucy today, so here’s a couple of answers. First, getting those first few calls. There’s a million ways to go about it, but here’s 4 cheap quickies for someone just getting started:

1.) Build a website or have it built for you. There are so many ways to do this for cheap or free. List your website with every free directory service you can find on line. Many directories will build a small one for you free of charge. Also, take a look at paid listings such as www.partypop.com. Sometimes it’s worth your while to pay a little to get the best listings.

2.) Advertise in a magazine specifically for your market. Example: If you are doing birthdays, advertise in a local parenting mag.

3.) Advertise on Craig’s list. It’s free and done properly will get you a few gigs.

4.) Send a personal letter with your promotional material to all the local party planners. Follow it up with a phone call. Keep in contact with them monthly through a newsletter or other monthly offers.

The second part of your question is “How do you sell them”? - Once again, a million different ways. I teach folks to use a phone script listing all the benefits that the customer will receive when they hire you. That way you have everything you need to say right at your fingertips.

If you're interested in seeing and utilizing all the promotional material and phone scripts I’ve used in building my business, they are available in the Rebel Entertainer’s Success System.

Annie Banannie (aka Laura Caldwell) of Orange, Ca writes:

QUESTION: Any tips on time management? Right now the urgent is pushing out the important.

ANSWER: I feel your pain! As Rebel Entertainers we have to be great marketers, office managers, computer geniuses and GREAT PERFORMERS. Sometimes it can be overwhelming.

Focus. First, the obvious. When getting to work, turn off all distractions. That includes the TV, the radio, cell phone, phone etc.. And don’t check your email. More time is wasted doing these things than anything else.

Appointments: Next, make appointments with yourself a couple of times throughout the day to return calls and emails. Don’t do them randomly as they come in.

Eat That Frog: Brian Tracy has a great book called Eat That Frog. He explains that you should do the nastiest, worst tasting, most disgusting task first. That way the rest of your day is left with clear thoughts and inspiration, instead of worrying about that big fat Frog. I think it’s good advice.

Lastly, create a “To Do” list system.

Here’s the system that I use. I have three “To-Do” lists. One for the year. One for the month. And one for today. I put the items on each list in order of importance and in order of the ones that make me THE MOST MONEY. Big, nasty frogs first, then the next pending item, then the next, on down the line.

Your list will change as time goes by. Some tasks will become more important as the deadlines draw closer. They change position on your list.

Every day I print it out. Every time I finish a task, I cross it off. At the end of each day I look at the list and appreciate what I’ve gotten done. On a psychological level, once you see how much you’ve gotten done in the day, you’ll become excited instead of overwhelmed.

Marsha Gallagher of Laughs by Modine asked:

QUESTION: What is the most difficult challenge performers face when re-imaging themselves, and what is the best way to overcome that challenge?

ANSWER: To study re-imaging or re-inventing on a large scale, just take a look at the careers of Justin Timberlake (from Boy Band to Solo Artist and Peoples Choice favorite entertainer), Queen Latifah (from Rapper to Academy Award Winner), Britney Spears (from pop star to dysfunctional mom back to pop star), and most recently Mickey Rourke. You can find bios on all them on line and on the Biography channel on TV.

But on a smaller scale, where most Rebel Entertainers live and breath, here’s how it works. Entertainers only re-invent themselves to further their career, increase their income or because they become sick of what they’ve been doing. The biggest PERSONAL challenge is to find a persona that you will be happy with and that your new market will accept and WANT to buy.

From a MARKETING standpoint, the biggest challenge is “Do I keep my current customers with my new image or do I try to sell the new image at a higher price to a new market?”

The answer on this scale may be a bit surprising. Here it is. Use different images for different markets. Eventually, the image that makes you the most money will win out. The image that makes you least money will slowly do less and less gigs.

Here’s an example: Image #1 - The Birthday Magician - When I first started, I did mainly birthday parties.

Image #2 - The Inspirational Animal Magician - I started performing specifically for Libraries

Image #3 The Educational Entertainer - I specialized in Schools - image #1 fell off.

Image #4 You know me as the Rebel Entertainer and guy with the answers. I no longer do b-days, and image #2 has begun to fall off.

Get it?

Oh, final note on that subject. You will have to create all new websites and other promotional material for your new image. Don't just simply try to alter your old ones.

Ken Shute, AKA Super K Balloon Twister asks:

QUESTION: What to do about marketing to businesses / private clients that may already have an entertainer or service-Is it ethical to bid out a gig in this situation?

ANSWER: I look at it another way. Is it ethical to allow a potential client to receive inferior service, when the very best service hasn’t even been considered?

Here are my ethics when it comes to booking a show and competing with other entertainers.

1.) Never steal a show from a friend (self explanatory) - If the prospect is considering someone else, you can always ask who it is.

2.) Never say anything bad about another entertainer - EVER.

3.) Never try to out-bid another entertainer on price alone - a lower price is NEVER a good negotiating tool. It lowers your worth and lowers the overall prices for all entertainers. In a price bidding war, nobody wins.

Anything other than that is fair game. I have a number of entertainer friends that I compete with. Including some big names that you know. It’s a friendly competition, and we refer business back and forth.

When you get a call, assume that you are, by far, the best option for that person calling. Offer them the most value, the most friendliness, be the most on time and the easiest entertainer they will ever deal with.

If you take that position, then whether or not they are considering another act will never enter the picture.

Here's proof:

You never want another entertainer saying "Oh, man, he just undercut me"

You'll never hear another entertainer complain "Oh, man, he got the job because he was better than me!"

Pete Ellison of One World Rhythm asks:

QUESTION: What's the best way to obtain testimonials either audio, written or video to use for promotional purposes?

Finally an easy one. Here ya go. The quickest and easiest ways.

ANSWER:
Audio - www.audiogenerator.com - You get a phone number your client can call. It records the testimonial and you can post it on your website or create an audio postcard.

Video - I use my little Flip Video camera. Santa got it for me around Christmas for under $100.00. Uploads directly to youtube. Can carry in you pocket. You can use youtube tools to put it on your site.

When to get them - Option #1 - The best time to get an audio or video testimonial is right after the show. When they are telling you “That was the best thing I ever saw, you’re great, etc…”, just simply ask them if they’ll give you a testimonial right then and there and repeat exactly what they just told you. They can remember the show, what they said, and keep the excitement in their voice. Whip out your video camera or cell phone and record it right there.

But, if they’re not comfortable with doing it right there, you must offer them option # 2. Right there give them a little post card with your audio testimonial phone number, your email address with a note explaining what to do. “When you get back to a quiet place, call that number or email me the testimonial”.

Lastly, if they still don’t send you one, request it in your “Thank-You” note.

There. Three easy steps to great testimonials.

Hope you enjoyed the answers. Now go spread the word about http://www.rebelentertainers.com/!

John Abrams - Rebel Entertainer and Answerer of Questions

Is Your Show "Cool"?

2009-02-26T16:24:00.000-08:00

Learning from a Grey Goose

I have a confession. I am addicted to audio books. I drive A LOT! I find it’s the best way to take advantage of all the driving time to and from shows.

I just finished listening to Chasing Cool, an audio book by Noah Kerner & Gene Pressman, while driving home from San Diego (same area as I found the Ostrich Egg).

They have figured out ways of making your product or service be "COOL" (ie. Ipod, Nike, etc..). They tell a fascinating story about Grey Goose Vodka and how the creator, a guy named Sidney Frank, created the vodka and made it the most PREMIUM and SOUGHT AFTER VODKA, period... in less than 7 years.

Now pay close attention, because his strategies can be used by YOU to sell your shows.

Let's think about this. In general, his task was to convince the public that his tasteless, colorless, non-descript alcoholic beverage was better and made you feel more important than drinking the other guy's tasteless, colorless, non-descript alcoholic beverage.

How'd he do dat?

First, Sidney knew that to become the "it" vodka, he would have to appeal to the high end drinker and also the less financially fortunate vodka guzzler.

Ok. First, the high end drinker (the connoisseur)

1.) The vodka is produced in the fancy schmancy “Vodka region of France”. Who knew that there was a vodka region of France? Does that really make it taste better? No. But it is “imported”. That’s one of the most high end words you can use. Also, France is where we perceive all the great food and beverage to come from.

2.) He imported the bottles in wooden crates like fine wine is imported. More expensive than the conventional cardboard, but adds perceived value.

3.) Charged $30.00 a bottle, double the price of the most expense brand of vodka at the time (Absolute). Gave additional perceived value.

4.) The Beverage Tasting Institute named Grey Goose “World’s Best Tasting Vodka” . Sidney used this as his USP and created an entire campaign around it.

Ok, how about the low end guzzlers?

1.) He got 8Ball and MJG to put it in their rap Almost Famous. Upon the release of Almost Famous, Grey Goose sales went up 600%.

2.) Other rap artists copied them and for a while, every drink in every rap song or video was “The Goose”.

Add a cool frosty design on the bottle and voila! You’ve got the drink that is perceived as the highest, most premium brand of vodka around.

Here’s the funny part and THE BIG LESSON.

Although the perception is that premium Vodkas taste better than low end vodkas, the truth is that they almost all taste exactly the same. In fact, most folks drink vodka with a mixer (O.J., cranberry, Red Bull) that masks the vodka taste completely.

Here’s proof. In a taste test put on by the New York Times, premium and ultra premium vodkas tested no better than the lower priced ones. In fact, Smirnoff, arguably a low end vodka because of the labeling and reputation, won the taste test HANDS DOWN!

So now the question for YOU is this: How is your show different than the others in your market? If it isn’t that different, than how can you convince your market that it is BETTER... MORE HIGH END... WORTH MORE... MORE FUN.. MORE EDUCATIONAL.... whatever! This is YOUR TASK.

There are gigantic lessons throughout this blog on how to do it. If you didn't get them, read it again while thinking about it.

Work on it and figure it out and you’ll have a huge advantage over your competition!

To learn more about how to position yourself as different than your competition, check out the Rebel Entertainer’s Show Building Course pages 20-31.

Dedicated to your Success
John Abrams
Vodka drinker and Rebel Entertainer

The Fred Phenomenon

2009-02-18T09:56:00.000-08:00

How To Create Millions of Fans

I'm a big fan of children's TV shows. I grew up with Gilligan's Island, I Dream of Jeannie and The Brady Bunch. I still occasionally watch some of 'em with my kids on the random satellite channels (especially Jeannie, because I had a crush on her for years. I think my kids are suspicious).

Since they watch MY shows, I, in turn, have to sit through THEIR shows. I think I've seen the same Hannah Montana episodes about 20 times each!

But the other day, something AMAZING happened. I believe, probably the first time this thing has EVER happened in this way on this large of a scale. Juna and I both sat in aw and wonderment!

Here's what happened. We were watching a commercial advertising a brand new Icarly episode. If you haven't seen Icarly, it's a kids sitcom on Nickelodeon about a girl (Carly of course) and her friends that have a webshow. Cute show.

They were advertising the guest appearance of Fred. Both Lily & Juna went completely ape-shit!! "omg, Fred, I can't believe it...."

Now, who's Fred? If you surf youtube at all, there's no way you can't ... know who Fred is. He’s the crazy, high voiced, insane teenager on youtube that always needs his meds. He’s become a viral phenomenon. He’s posted I don’t know how many videos on youtube, each getting 7 to 15 million hits.

Just about any kid with internet access loves Fred (and many adults including me)! That’s a butt-load of fans.

So what does Nickelodeon do? They get him to guest on their show about a webshow. Why is this so amazing?

Let’s see, Fred has millions of internet fans that were driven to the Icarly show through his sites. Icarly has millions of fans that are now introduced to Fred. Yes, they have a lot of cross over fans (fans of both already), but millions of new people are introduced to both shows OVERNIGHT. The show will play over and over and over (that’s how Nick does it).

That’s a multi million person increase in each fan base. That adds up to lots and lots of advertising dollars. That’s one idea. Millions of dollars. Wow.

Disney must be pissed! But I guarantee, within the next few weeks, you’ll see Disney copying this model.

The Big Lesson:
Actually there are three big lessons here. First, Disney will model this and perfect it, add the Disney twist and make the idea even better (that’s what they do). So the first big lesson is this: What processes/systems do you see that you can model. Take a look at the people in and around your field that are successful, and model their “system” or “method” for becoming successful.

Secondly, can you combine your list of customers with a friend’s list to increase both of your businesses? Most customers have to do more than one event. Why can’t those events involve you and your friends?

Lastly, when you create a win win situation for everybody involved, there’s no stopping you.

Dedicated to your success!

John Abrams
Fred fan and Rebel Entertainer

"Inspiring Live Entertainers to Create Innovative Marketing and Breakthrough Performances"

www.RebelEntertainers.com

P.S. If you want a terrific money making model to look at - that has every piece of marketing material that I’ve used in my entertainment business to make literally hundreds of thousands of dollars. Material that is ready for you to steal, change with your information, and use for your own business - then you need to invest in the Rebel Entertainer’s Success System. It has all that and more. Click here to find out all about it.

PSS - Oh, by the way, if you want to see my favorite Fred video Click here.

Making More Money Twisting

2009-02-12T17:50:00.000-08:00

I normally don’t write about one particular industry. But I was so inspired by my visit to the recent Twist & Shout balloon convention, I felt compelled.

On a personal note, the folks at Twist and Shout were some of the nicest people on the planet. No egos. Very giving, open to new ideas, and ready to learn. A GREAT EXPERIENCE.

Now, on with the subject of Making More Money In Your Twisting Career. The question I got asked the most at the convention was simply “How do I make more money?” Everyone from line twisters to folks that already have a “Show” had the same question.

I did a lot of thinking about this. And I came up with a number of ways to DRAMATICALLY INCREASE YOUR INCOME. But before we talk about the solutions, let’s bring up a few problems that balloon artists have when trying to sell their services.

Problem #1 - Whether you like it or not, the general public has the perception of balloon artists as “The guy at a birthday party that twists swords and doggies for my kids”. They don’t understand the talent and the value that you bring to an event.

Problem #2 - Most balloon artists charge by the hour. No matter how much you charge per hour, you still can’t make more than an hourly wage.

Problem #3 - We love twisting! This is a double edged sword. At the convention I heard on more than one occasion “I’m happy as hell to get paid any amount for something I’d gladly do for free”. It’s OK to love your art. In fact it’s a requirement. But what your doing has HUGE value.

Most balloon artists are dramatically undercharging for their services. I’ve seen your work. I know how intricate an art it can be . I understand the “Wow” factor when someone first experiences an amazing balloon sculpture. THAT‘S WORTH A LOT OF MONEY.

So, the question becomes…

HOW CAN WE CHANGE THE PUBLIC‘S PERCEPTION OF BALLOON ARTISTS?

How can we convince a potential customer that what we have to offer is worth way more than what they are used to paying?

It’s a pretty broad question. And there are a hundred different answers. I’m not even going to attempt to answer them all here. There’s not enough space. But there’s a secret formula that entertainers all over the world have used to increase the perceived value of their show. I am now going to reveal it to you, free of charge, no strings attached. Are you sitting down. Here we go.

The big secret is this.

To increase the perceived value of your services you must answer this question:

“What do I offer that no other entertainer in my field offers and why should someone pay more for my services than they pay for anybody else even remotely in my market?”

That’s it. Answer that question and you will DOMINATE your market and get payed more than any other balloon artist in your market..

But how do you do it. How do you offer something “different”. If everybody is offering balloon twisting at an hourly rate. Or a small show and 30 minutes of twisting for one low fee, how do you break the mold.

Here’s one very good answer: Package Selling.

Instead of selling twisting at an hourly rate, sell in packages. Have additional services that increase the perceived value of your art. Offer at least two, but better three, different packages.

Here’s some examples:

Package A
- Comes with 1 hour of twisting
- Plus a balloon dress for the guest of honor - “Imagine the look on your guests face when your daughter walks in wearing an original piece of art….”
- And an autographed picture of the Balloon Artist with the girl and the dress
(Of course you’ll put it in a cardboard frame with your name and contact info all over it)

Total Fee is ____________
- Over one hour is _______ per hour (a huge rate)

Package B
- Comes with 1 hour of twisting
- Plus I arrive early and make sure the party is decorated with 15 large balloon sculptures

Total Fee is ____________
- Over one hour is _______ per hour (a huge rate)

Package C
- Comes with a 1 hour of twisting
- Plus a custom made life-size balloon sculpture of the guest of honor, ready to greet your guests when they come to the door

These packages are worth way more than an hourly rate. You may or may not have the skills right now to offer these particular packages. But these are just examples. Be Creative! You’ve got to offer them something different!

Here’s an idea if you do strolling.

Most people sell strolling balloon twisting. The interesting thing is that the perceived value of “balloon animals”, no matter how intricate, is fairly low.

You and I both know that when you twist in front of people, you are entertaining them at the same time.

So, instead of selling “strolling balloon twisting”, sell the same service as “An hour’s worth of Mini Comedy Shows for groups of 2-7 people at a time, and at the end of each, one lucky participant gets an original piece of balloon art”. That will increase the perceived value of your service.

What you do IS ART! We just need to convince the rest of the world that it’s so!

If you MUST sell by the hour, and the client is not interested in anything else you have to offer, here’s a way to increase your pay and the perceived value of your hourly rate.

Package A
Doggies, Swords and Simple Hats for every guest
(Very easy and you can whip them out quickly and easily)
One low price of ______________

Package B
Looney Tune Characters for every guest
Plus a super sculpture for the guest of honor
Medium price of ______________

Package C (for the small audience)
Extravagant Balloon Sculpture for every guest
Plus a super sculpture for the guest of honor
High price of ________________

Now, of course, this is just scratching the surface of your full potential of what you can create.

Think Outside of The Balloon!

One last thing: To charge more for your services, YOU MUST BELIEVE THAT YOU ARE WORTH IT! When you give someone a price that is double or triple or even ten times what you’re used to charging, you must believe that they are getting value. That your services are worth even more than you are charging. That they are lucky to get you at all. Once that idea is deeply ingrained in your psychological make-up, you will make more money.

Good luck and may the latex gods be with you.

Dedicated to your success…
John Abrams
Rebel Entertainer
Inspiring Live Entertainers to Create Innovative Marketing & Breakthrough Performances

P.S. For more info on package selling and increasing your perceived value, I urge you to invest in the Rebel Entertainers Success System. It’s worked for many other entertainers and it will work for you.

Ostrich Egg Marketing

2009-01-23T10:16:00.000-08:00

Are you marketing your shows like an Ostrich Egg?

So, I'm driving back from San Diego after doing a couple of shows. I look to the side of the road and there's a wooden-shack fruit stand.

It had the same old signs as all the other fruit stands I've seen on the side of the road. The signs read "Strawberries, Cherries, Papayas" etc.. and then there was one more sign. It said "Ostrich Eggs". Ostrich eggs?! Are you kiddin' me.

I immediately pulled over and talked to the guy at the counter. His name was Juan. I remember because it is like my name in Spanish. He was short on fruit, but he definitely had ostrich eggs. They were from a nearby ostrich farm.

He had two batches. One batch was for decorating, and the other was for eating. I couldn't leave without buying an ostrich egg! What other chance would I have.

I couldn’t wait to take it home to Shelley and the kids and tell them that it was dinner. At first they were grossed out, but it was actually a really fun experience and tasted pretty good.

The Big Lessons:

1.) Juan was selling something unique and unusual and he wasn't afraid to advertise as such. My guess is that he sells a lot of these things to out-of- towners. Let's face it, I wouldn't have pulled over if it wasn't for the ostrich eggs.

2.) When I bought the egg, I wasn't thinking about how good it would taste. In fact I was a little nervous about it. All I could think of was how my family would react to it when I brought it home. And what a neat experience it would be to try to cook the darn thing.

How 'Bout You?

Is your show something "different"? Do you offer something that is so fascinating that it gets people to pull off the road and almost wreck their car? Or are you simply trying to peddle the same thing every other entertainer in your field is? If it is different, are you stating the differences in all your promotional material? If it isn't different, is there any way you can give the perception of it being different, unique and unusual?

Is your promotional material itself different? Or do you have the same old 3 fold flyer that everybody else does? How can you make it look different?

And lastly, always remember, when you're selling your show, people aren't buying the magic or juggling act. They are buying the experience. They are buying the feelings they'll get whey they see it.

Click Here to see the video of Lily & I cookin' it up
See ya soon!
John Abrams

"Inspiring Live Entertainers to Create Innovative Marketing and Breakthrough Performances"

www.RebelEntertainers.com

Making Money at a Bizarre Bath

2008-12-16T08:46:00.000-08:00

How a small time entertainer in England figured a way
to make $110,000.00 a year working every other night
for only 8 months.

On my recent trip to England, my daughter Juna and I were visiting the gigantamous Bath City Center shopping area. If you’ve never been, it’s quite spectacular. It runs about 20 or 30 city blocks and houses thousands of indoor and outdoor shops along with the ancient Bath Cathedral and the Roman Bath Houses. All of which are international tourist attractions.

In the midst of all this craziness, Juna spotted a small flyer that told about something called the Bizarre Bath Comedy Walk. It’s described as “…the unique evening entertainment that appeals to everyone. You’ll laugh yourself silly when you join this celebrated stroll which takes an irreverent look at Bath. So, if you’re looking for something hysterical rather than historical, why not join us?”

It started at 8:00pm after all the shops had closed. We met with about 70 other folks from around the world in front of the Huntsman Pub. At about 8:05 the entertainer introduced himself. He was a spry 61 years old. Jolly yet acerbic. The first thing he did was collect the money (lesson #1). All cash of course (maybe lesson #2). Gathered everybody around and started the show.

I won’t bore you with the details of his show, but basically it consisted of this: A very funny guy, performing about five standard magic and mind reading routines with one additional original (and hilarious) routine. All broken up by walking through and making jokes about the not-so-famous parts of the area.

Now, let’s do the math. He charged 8 pounds (about $15.00) per person, cash. There were about 70 of us there that night. October in England, rainy, definitely off-season. My guess is that during the busy season it’s more like 100 or 150 people a night. But let’s go ahead and use the 70 people number. That’s $1,050.00 per night, 7 days a week from April through November. That’s $220,500.00. He switches every other night with another entertainer. So that means that each of them make at least $110,000.00 each. They only work every other night. Holy cow! Not too bad for a standard type comedy magician. No additional promotion. Only expense is the flyer. Lots of flyers but very cheap.

The Big Lesson: The most important thing that he did to make that kind of money for doing what is more or less a standard show is this: He positioned himself different than any other entertainer in the country. He was really simply a magician performing a show. But he positioned himself a “Bizarre walking tour…”.

The Flyer consisted of a couple of pictures of the performer and a laughing audience, a butt-load of testimonials and a short description. Heck, you didn’t even know you were seeing a magician!

How did he get the shops to agree to let him bring a crowd in after they closed? He promised to promote their shops during the show to tourists with lots of money. The assumption is that they will visit those shops the next day.

How did he find a meeting place for all those people? He made a deal with the pub that there would be people buying drinks and ordering food at the restaurant before the show. He would also dump off about 100 thirsty folks after a two hour walking show with no drinking break. And he put the pubs name on the all the flyers that went in all the shops. Everybody wins.

You may be thinking “That’s seems like a lot of work.” Yes it is. At the beginning. But let’s think about this:

1000 bucks a night
Steady 7 nights a week work for 8 months
No theater rental or overhead expenses (except for flyer)
No driving
No assistant
And you have daytime free to pursue other shows

Pretty good for a guy that simply tells some jokes, does a little magic and takes a walk every night.

What can YOU do to position yourself as different than the rest. Not just a magician, or a dancer or a juggler. But something completely different than anything in your town. Do it.