I was filling out an online survey for the online marketing site www.thumbtack.com. They are a party planning site. Basically their advertising and marketing team generates leads and then sells them to performers based on geographic location.
I’ve received a few leads from them (a mysterious “Heather”, though I’m skeptical there is such a person!) so they obviously do attract some traffic. After uploading my name, contact info, and a few photos they asked a number of generic questions. As I was putting more and more time into my online profile I thought, “Hey, why not get double duty from this?” So, here are my brief answers to their questions. Note that this profile was intended for the niche market of kid’s birthday parties. However, some of the advice holds true for other types of events as well!
What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?
Get references! These days anyone can put up a nice looking website and look professional, and even videos can create the illusion of a good performance through slick editing. Ask if you can attend a performance. If you’re talking to a professional, chances are good they are working in the area.
The next best thing is to ask for two referrals. These should be recent clients planning an event similar to yours. For instance, if you’re planning your child’s 7th birthday party, talk to someone who also booked that performer for their child’s birthday. Call this person and find out what their experience was.
You can also read online client reviews. Here are a few of mine: http://local.yahoo.com/info-22241729-amazement-productions-olympia
If you were a customer, what do you wish they knew about your trade? Any insider secrets to share?
Did you know that very few kidshow performers are full-time professionals? I’ve performed magic full-time since 1998 and do over 250 shows each year. I work in many arenas, from private parties in the home to corporate events for the largest companies in the Pacific Northwest.
It’s hard to put a price tag on that sort of experience. What it means to you as a client is that you can relax knowing that whatever happens, your show and PARTY will be the absolutely best it can be for the situation. The type of magic I perform on the back patio for Tim’s 8th birthday party is different than what I’ll custom-design to entertain prospective clients at an industry tradeshow. In both cases, from my costuming to my patter to my props, I’ll choose my material for maximum impact for my audience.
What questions should a consumer ask to hire the right service professional?
Do you offer a guarantee?
All of my performances are backed with my Money-Back Satisfaction Guarantee. If you’re not completely thrilled with my performance at your event, you don’t owe me a dime. But don’t worry; no one has ever had to take me up on the offer!
You’re welcome to check out my listing for magic shows in Seattle at Thumbtack.