Getting the Gigs Part 2…and finding your “Space.”
Moving forward, I am cutting back on the “event service” agencies. The investment for return on Gigs is not a win for me.
So, I’ve got some work cut out for me. I have to do my own SEO. Not my expertise, this is throwing spaghetti on a wall to see what sticks. Hiring a pro is too costly for my market.
Status is relevant for all gig workers. Your status determines your value…just the facts.
If you want to upgrade your status you must boost your reputation and clients.
An immediate bump in reputation is not easy, but for the hungry, you might consider an audition for AGT. The bad news is you have to be good. That is not unreasonable considering your goal. The good news is you do not have to win. You earn an immediate badge of honor. When you can claim, “As seen on…”
There are also local opportunities, be creative. You may be newsworthy. Exposure, exposure, exposure!
Upgrading your clients means seeking work from people with deep pockets. I work mostly at private events. Birthdays, holiday parties, weddings…occasionally I work at a corporate event. There is a lot more money available in the corporate world. You’ll have to bang on a few doors, but some low-profile magicians make serious money through trade shows.
(By low profile, I mean magicians who may not have a “Star reputation” in the magic community, but they have status in the corporate world.)
One of the best from my generation is Paul Gertner. Paul is not a low-profile Magician. Paul's creation “The Ring on the Hour Glass” was featured in one of David Copperfield’s TV Specials.
He’s fooled, Penn and Teller.
Paul was even seen in Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood. Lesson: Grab every opportunity.
I’m too old to follow my own advice, but the young can shoot for the stars. Again, you have to be good, real good. Just because you want to make a living as a magic performer doesn’t mean you can.
I don’t believe there is a magic mirror where we can truly see ourselves and our abilities and limitations. Perseverance without talent will not pay off.
I can tell you, if you are outstanding, you may do well. However, there is a lot of hard work involved. If you think of all you need to prepare for, you might choose a different path.
Have you thought about health insurance?
I remain surprised when “name Magicians” need to access Go Fund Me for medical bills.
Have you thought about retirement, or paying taxes? Don’t even think you can survive on Social Security. You are self-employed and are responsible for your own retirement.
One high-profile magician has combined his private business and still followed his passion for magic. Check out Marc DeSouza.
Remember, we can’t all be famous… but that’s not why we do this.
Good Luck.
Joe Ferranti
Boston Massachusetts Magician
