For comics, being booked frequently is a basic goal.
We WANT that stage time. It’s an opportunity to be seen, potentially increase our following, and show what we represent as a comedian.
While there is a desire for opportunities, there is a frequent trend of unreliability.
What exactly do I mean by unreliability? It’s comics receiving opportunities that they either flake out on completely or they treat it with such a blasé attitude.
While some may not care at the moment, such instances have an overall impact on how you are ultimately perceived (and handled) in the industry.
Here’s what I have seen.
It’s business, so treat it as such.
Comedians are the designated goofball of the industry and this allows us to get away with A LOT compared to any other profession.
I’ve often been told (primarily by naive open mic comics both online and in-person) that you can’t expect comedians to be so professional. Ironically, these are the open mic lifers who will likely never rise above the local scene.
This is where the problem lies. When it boils down to the nitty-gritty, this is a business and the comedian on stage should not overstep the business person we are expected to represent.
People who choose to work with you only care that you can deliver and this mentality is synonymous with any producer, booker, casting director, agent, etc.
It comes down to respect and showing that means you’re on time, you’re prepared, you listen, and so forth. Failure to do so only leads to a negative impression which will inevitably be felt for a period of time after.
Your passion ultimately comes into question.
Passion is what drives us to keep going and reach our own personal success. Not only does it drive us as comedians, but it is an indicator of our potential to those around us. Being unreliable is a roadblock that we put in our own way.
What are the reasons? Sometimes we fear success. Other times we lack direction. It cannot be pinpointed to just one thing.
Regardless of the reason, your passion will be questioned. Once passion is questioned, don’t expect opportunities to readily come your way.
From experience, producers, agents, bookers, etc. all want to work with comedians that exhibit a certain type of passion. This passion is the type that is willing to make moves, be present, figure out the direction to take, and exhibit the right amount of aggression for those opportunities.
If any doubt is felt, don’t expect such relationships to go far. You’ll likely only get booked once and never again.
It’s a simple concept: commit and follow through. Talent means very little if you can’t back it up with a business prowess. The comics who leave a positive impression and are easy to work with are the ones who will flourish.
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