Staring at an empty calendar, filled with potential but void of bookings, can be disheartening for any performer. The world of corporate events, rich with opportunities, often feels like an exclusive club, hard to crack. But here's the twist: breaking into this market is more about strategy than luck.
This guide is your key to unlock those doors.
Understanding the Corporate Event Landscape
Corporate events are a different beast compared to traditional performance venues. They range from formal galas to casual team-building retreats, each with its distinct flavor and audience. Navigating this terrain requires a deep understanding of what makes these events tick. Corporate clients seek entertainment that aligns with their brand, message, and the tone of the event. They value professionalism and reliability as much as talent. As a performer, it's crucial to understand these nuances. It's not just about showcasing your talent; it's about tailoring it to fit the corporate mold.
Building a Corporate-Friendly Portfolio
Start from signing up and creating a profile on EVA's platform. This is your gateway to a world of opportunities, connecting you directly with corporate clients looking for exceptional talent. By showcasing your unique act on EVA, you increase your visibility, streamline the booking process, and open doors to a multitude of corporate events.
First impressions count.
Your portfolio is your audition tape for potential clients. It needs to scream professionalism, versatility, and adaptability. Begin by evaluating your current repertoire. Does it align with a corporate audience? Remember, these events often have diverse groups, so your act should be universally appealing and sensitive to a corporate environment.
A corporate-friendly portfolio goes beyond just performance clips. It includes testimonials from past clients, especially those from the corporate world, if available. This builds credibility. A well-maintained website or a professionally crafted electronic press kit (EPK) can be your strongest ally. They provide a platform to showcase your best work and client testimonials in an accessible, engaging format.
Marketing Yourself for Corporate Events
With your arsenal ready, it's time to market yourself. Effective marketing in the corporate event space is a blend of traditional methods and digital savvy. Start with a clear brand message. What sets you apart from other performers? Perhaps it's your unique style, your experience, or your ability to customize performances for different events.
Use the power of social media. Platforms like LinkedIn can be goldmines for connecting with corporate event planners and decision-makers. Showcase snippets of your performances, share client testimonials, and post engaging content that highlights your suitability for corporate events.
Your website should be more than just a gallery of your work. Include a clear, concise biography, a list of services, and contact information. SEO optimization is key – you want to appear in searches when someone is looking for 'corporate event entertainment.'
Networking and Making Connections
The corporate event market thrives on relationships. It's often about who you know as much as what you know. Start by identifying key players – corporate event planners, agencies, and even venues that frequently host corporate events. Make a list and start reaching out. Personalized emails or messages can open doors.
Remember, the goal is to build relationships, not just to get immediate bookings.
Attend industry events, trade shows, and seminars. These gatherings are where the corporate event community comes together. They are opportunities to meet decision-makers face-to-face, to learn about the latest trends, and to showcase your talent. Don’t underestimate the power of online networking forums and groups dedicated to corporate event planning. Engage in these communities, share insights, and make your presence known.
Crafting Your Pitch: Standing Out to Corporate Clients
When it comes to catching the eye of a corporate client, it's all about the pitch. Your approach should be as unique as your act. Start by crafting a compelling story around your performance – one that resonates with corporate values and objectives. Are you a magician who can subtly weave a company's product into your act? Or a musician whose repertoire can adapt to different corporate themes? Highlight these aspects.
Your pitch should be concise yet powerful, illustrating not just what you do, but how it adds value to their event. Tailor each pitch to the specific client – a generic, one-size-fits-all approach won’t cut it. Research the company, understand their culture, and align your pitch accordingly. And remember, follow-ups are crucial. A gentle nudge post-pitch can sometimes turn a maybe into a yes.
Pricing and Negotiating Your Services
Corporate events often have larger budgets than private gigs, but they also demand high standards and professionalism. Start by researching the going rates for performers in the corporate market. This gives you a baseline, but don’t just stick to it. Consider your unique selling points – what makes your act worth the investment.
When you quote your price, be ready to negotiate. But remember, negotiation isn’t just about the price. It’s about creating a package that offers value to both you and the client. Perhaps you can offer additional services, like customizing part of your performance to align with the event’s theme.
Delivering Exceptional Performances at Corporate Events
Once you’ve landed the gig, it's showtime – literally and figuratively. Corporate events demand a level of professionalism and adaptability that goes beyond just performing your act. You might need to adjust your performance to suit the event’s schedule or interact with an audience that’s not there just to see you. It’s about enhancing the overall event experience.
Focus on engaging the audience while respecting the formal setting. If you're a comedian, steer clear of controversial topics. If you're a musician, consider the volume and tempo of your performance in relation to the event's agenda. And most importantly, be punctual, be prepared, and be adaptable.
Building Long-Term Relationships with Corporate Clients
The gig might be over, but your job isn’t. Building long-term relationships with corporate clients can lead to repeat bookings and referrals. After the event, reach out to the client. A thank-you note can go a long way. Ask for feedback and be open to it. This not only shows that you’re professional but also that you’re committed to continually improving your act.
Stay in touch, but don’t spam their inbox.
Occasional updates about your new acts or notable performances can keep you on their radar. And always look for ways to add value. Share insights or trends in event entertainment that might interest them. It’s about being seen as a partner, not just a performer.
