Posted: Feb 24, 2020
Category: Show Booking
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**Guest post written by Rachael Rubright of Dozmia.
"Imagine this -- you’re at a club, dressed to the nines, when you see a super hot chick/dude at the bar across the room.
You really want to get their attention, but how? Should you just go up and introduce yourself? Walk up to the bar, order a drink right next to them and hope your snazzy clubbing outfit is enough to catch their eye? Maybe break out your wicked dance moves?
What would be the most effectual method(s) to get them to notice you?
In the context of this article, you are the attention-seeking single, and the hottie across the room is a booking agent.
Just like that hottie in our story, a booking agent has a lot of artists vying for their attention or pulling their interest away from you.
So, what can you do to put yourself on that booking agent’s radar? This article will outline some tips to help you get noticed.
+5 Huge Lies About Touring in 2020
But first -- what is a booking agent and why should I get one?
Great question! Fundamentally, a booking agent is someone who...well, books your gigs. They’re the ones who talk with promoters to get you into a venue or get a gig. But they do much more than that:
Having a booking agent takes a lot of the pressure off of you to do the above mentioned stuff. This allows you and your band to focus on making awesome, high-quality music. So if you like the sound of all that, read on!
+Meet the Music Booking Agents
How to get a booking agent's attention
As much as you can handle. Keep yourself in the public eye and people hearing your music irl. When a booking agent sees a full schedule, it tells them several things:
Booking agents are going to work hard for you, so they want to know you’re going to work hard for them. But, if maintaining a regular gig schedule is too much...
Releasing music is a solid way to build a fanbase, and doing it regularly can, like performing live, show booking agents that you’re an active, relevant, dedicated musician. Releasing your music can also help you to book gigs.
+50 Ways to Promote Your Music and Grow Your Fanbase
Literally one of the best ways to stay connected with your fans. Using social media is an easy way to let people know what your band is up to, where you’re going, what new music you have out, etc.
It’s also one of the first places a booking agent investigates when researching potential clients. They will often judge an artist by their social media presence, number of followers, and activity, so make sure your posts/tweets/selfies are frequent, professional, and up-to-date.
Also, if you can build a strong following on social media, it’ll reassure the booking agent that you’re a solid investment.
+8 Tips to Help You Maximize Your Efforts With Social Media Marketing
It doesn’t matter what industry you’re in, knowing people and networking is the easiest way to get what you want. Whether you’re trying to sign with a label, book a venue, or get an agent, having your foot-in-the-door will help you achieve that goal.
And don’t just aim for the big guys -- connect with anyone. Fans, DJ’s, managers, anyone in the music scene can help you move in the right direction.
And once you make a connection, don’t let them forget you! Keep people updated on social media.
For booking agents, they want to know how your career is progressing. So if you’ve managed to secure the contact info of one, when something significant happens to you, like you get a great review or you book a big tour, let them know. Keep yourself in their radar!
+6 Marketing Strategies Which Are Helpful for Music Promotion
Essentially your resume as an artist, an Electronic Press Kit is an online portfolio that provides access to all of your essential information, like bio, links to your music, links to your social media, tour dates, etc.
An EPK can be the first impression a booking agent has of you (and as they say, the first impression is the last impression), so make it professional. Keep it updated and provide only your highest quality stuff.
+Essential Elements of an Effective EPK
This may not be as glamorous as doing your own show, but it’s an opportunity to expand your fanbase and get your name on the radar of that band’s agent. Being humble enough to take 2nd place could lead to some great connections.
Booking agents don’t want the same old thing, they need something new!
Create a cohesive, definable brand that’s creative, different, and you. This will make you much more marketable. Know who you are as a musician, know what you want artistically, and know the niche you’re aiming for.
Making a brand for yourself makes you a complete product, and when booking agents see you as a complete product, they’re much more willing to take you on as a client.
A booking agent can be a useful tool for any musician who’s trying to reach that next level. It allows you the opportunity to focus on your music without worrying so much about other nitty gritty tasks.
If you do decide to look for a booking agent, try out these suggestions.
And as a final note, before you sign with any agent, make sure (1) you’re ready for a booking agent, and (2) do your research. Don’t just sign with anyone -- give it some thought and make the best choice for yourself. "
Related Blog Posts:
+When Should You Hire a Booking Agent?
+How to Get on a Booking Agent's Radar with CAA Agent, Kyle Wilensky