🚨Business Talk Learning Guide for Aerial Performer’s

 

 

1. Booking Shows and Events

 

• Understand Your Market: Identify and Prioritize locations and audiences that will appreciate your skills. The sky is the limit! Don’t hesitate to find your creative niche with aerials and implement that in different ways.

• Networking: Build relationships with venue owners, event planners, and fellow performers. Attending showcases, aerial and non aerial events, and any industry events that can be open doors for future gigs.

• Pitch Perfect: Develop a compelling pitch that includes your unique strengths, experience, and a link to your portfolio or website. Being concise, having multiple talents and apparatuses/ talents and showcasing what makes you different will increase your chances of getting noticed.

 

2. Our Price Range

 

• Know Your Worth: Pricing yourself appropriately depends on several factors, including your experience, event type, audience, and location. Research standard rates in your area and align your rates with the quality you deliver. I would recommend starting around $200- $300/ hr when it comes to booking pole and aerial gigs.

• Tiered Pricing: Set flexible rates for different event types. Private events, corporate gigs, and large festivals can all have different pricing structures based on scope and audience reach. Always ask lots of questions!!!

• Avoiding Undervaluing: Be mindful of what you offer beyond just the performance, such as the preparation, rehearsal time, and physical demands. If you start low it’s harder to increase later.

 

3. Advertising & Building Your Brand

 

• Define Your Brand: Your brand should reflect your persona as an artist. Think about your style, color palette, and signature moves or props that set you apart.

• Social Media Strategy: Post consistently on platforms where your target audience is most active. Consider sharing a mix of performance clips, behind-the-scenes content, and personal stories.

• Professional Portfolio: A professional-looking website or portfolio is essential. Include high-quality images, videos, a bio, and testimonials.

 

4. Why We Decline Low-Quality Bookings

 

• Identify Red Flags: Watch out for events with unclear requirements, low budgets, or poor organization. These are often signs that they won’t be worth your time.

• Set Boundaries: Saying “No” to a booking that doesn’t meet your standards protects your energy and ensures you’re available for better opportunities.

• Long-Term Strategy: Accepting low-quality gigs can sometimes impact your brand negatively. Focus on bookings that elevate your profile.

 

5. Getting Paid Your Worth and Then Some

 

• Confident Negotiation: Be clear and upfront about your rates and value. Don’t be afraid to ask for what you’re worth and to articulate the benefits you bring to the event.

• Discuss All Fees: Factor in travel costs, costume expenses, and any setup fees. It’s okay to adjust your rate based on these additional demands.

• Be Professional but Firm: When dealing with clients, maintain a positive attitude, but be assertive when it comes to negotiating your pay.

 

6. Setting the Standard

 

• Exceed Expectations: Strive to deliver more than promised. This could be a small, unexpected extra touch in your performance or a follow-up message thanking the organizer for the opportunity.

• Feedback and Referrals: Request feedback from event organizers and audience members. Positive testimonials can build your reputation and lead to referrals.

• Create Signature Moments: If possible, incorporate a unique or memorable element in each performance that distinguishes you and encourages repeat bookings.

 

7. Operating as a Professional Aerialist

 

• Preparation: Always be on time, prepared, and bring all necessary equipment. This reflects your reliability and respect for the event.

• Dress for Success: Your costume should be appropriate for the event and align with your brand’s style. This includes being mindful of safety and comfort, especially for aerial performances.

• Stage Presence: Engaging with the audience before, during, and after your performance leaves a lasting impression and increases the likelihood of being booked again.