Hiring entertainment for a corporate event is always an important responsibility, your entertainment can make, or break your event – so keep these tips in mind when searching for your perfect entertainer.
Tip 10 – Plan early
Popular corporate entertainers book up pretty quickly. You can avoid disappointment by looking for the perfect entertainment as soon as you know the date of your corporate event.
Once you know the exact type of entertainment you are having, you can plan around that entertainment. Also keep in mind that the setup of the room can sometimes vary depending on the performer.
Tip 9 – Your budget.
Knowing your entertainment budget before contacting performers is a great start. That old saying, “you get what you pay for” applies to entertainment as well. What you can afford for an entertainer will dictate the quality. Fees for a top quality, professional corporate entertainer will depend on the performer’s experience and reputation as well as the date, location and size of the show.
Tip 8 – Open communication
Your entertainer is there to enhance your event, so keeping them fully informed of any changes in your event helps them bring you the best possible performance.
Many entertainers can customize their performance for your event. If you have a special request in mind, be sure to bring it up. If they’re doing a customized show it’s essential to get the required information to them as early as possible.
Tip 7 – What is the performers experience?
You want a corporate entertainer who primarily entertainers for corporate audiences and has a lot of experience doing so – so don’t be afraid to ask questions…
Is the performer an experienced full-time entertainer who makes showing up early and doing a great job for the client their top priority?
Have they performed at many events like yours so they’ll be prepared properly to provide an outstanding performance?
Do they have legitimate and glowing reviews from past clients for you to read?
Tip 6 – Set up requirements
Set-up needs for entertainers vary greatly. Some can perform in the corner of a room with just a microphone. Some acts need a minimum stage area and special sound and lighting equipment. Be sure your venue will be able to meet your entertainer’s set-up needs prior to booking.
Tip 5 – Special requests
Your questions may even lead to new ideas to enhance your event that you hadn’t thought of!
Ask the entertainer if they offer any special packages. Your entertainer may have a package that will make your event extra specials.
Tip 4 – What is included in the fee?
There are usually travel expenses associated with hiring International entertainers for your corporate party. Some entertainers include the travel expenses in their performance fee and for some travel will be an additional expense item.
Be sure to know what is included in the fee you are quoted to avoid any surprises!
Tip 3 – The right type
Make sure your entertainer is a corporate entertainment specialist who knows the needs and expectations of the corporate environment.
The most popular types of corporate entertainment shows are:
Comedy acts, magic shows, mentalists and hypnotists
No matter what type of act you choose, be sure the content is appropriate for your group. Performers have different ideas on what “clean material” is. be sure to discuss this clearly and see a demo video to preview the show if this is a concern
Tip 2 – Sign a contract
The entertainer (or their booking agent) should provide you with a simple contract outlining your agreement along with the date, fee, location of your event as well as any other arrangements agreed upon.
The contract should clearly state what you will be required to provide for the event, such as a sound system or lighting requirements, and exactly what the entertainer will be providing.
Tip 1 – Always watch a demo video
Seeing an act in person, or a demo video is the only way you can truly judge whether a corporate entertainer will be right for your company event.
The demo video should be short highlights of the segments of an entertainer’s show. The video should be filmed in a front of a live audience so you can see how a real audience reacts to the show. If an entertainer cannot provide you with a video or you have not personally seen and loved their act… DO NOT hire this performer!
We hope this helps with your next event!
