Hiring corporate entertainers is not always an easy task for those who are not experienced event planners. Here are some suggested questions to ask when wanting to hire an entertainer for your next corporate event.
1. Do you specialize in entertaining at Corporate Events?
You want a specialist; someone that understands the unique demands of your event and what is expected at corporate programs! This is a question that is rarely asked but is supremely important! Example: He/she may be a wonderful magician and did a great job at Johnny’s 8th birthday party, but this material will not work for corporate clients.
2. Do you have any references?
If the performer was not personally recommended to you, then you must do the research! Ask for references; if they can’t provide you with some then DO NOT engage this entertainer. There are some performers that do a lot of shows, but never in the same place twice! Call their references and ask some questions, better you find out the bad news now rather than with a room full of your peers.
3. What type of set-up is needed?
I hate to say it, but most of this falls on the event planner. I have seen big events where the planner has paid big money on entertainment, food, drinks, etc. Everything is top-notch but they drop the ball on simple coordination. Things such as sound systems that are not big enough for the room, improper lighting and staging mistakes that seriously distracted from the event. A true entertainment professional should be able to guide you in the right direction for the needs and what will work best for the facility. Take their advice!
4. What do you charge?
This is a pretty obvious one. It may be the first thing you ask prospective entertainers. Whatever fee you are quoted, be sure to find out if that is the total fee! Some performers charge mileage, hotel room, meals and more – which is fine, just so long as you know about it in advance and are prepared for it.
5. Do you have any package specials?
Most professional entertainers will offer different entertainment packages. Every event is different and this gives you a chance to match the entertainment to best suit your needs. Whether they provide mingling entertainment during the “cocktail” hour, special gifts from the performer for the attendees, or whatever it may be. Ask your entertainer what they can package together to make your event extra special.
6. Do you offer any performance guarantee?
If a performer presents a quality presentation and has enough experience, they should absolutely guarantee their services. Why wouldn’t they? As with any product, the producer should stand behind it! Ask them what they guarantee!
Event planning has high risks and high rewards. Event planning can be a high-risk business. Many things can go wrong, and by answering these six questions you will minimize your risks and will maximize your rewards. Have an unforgettable event!
Great tips! I would also add, be sure to memorialize your agreement in writing with all the essential terms (time, place, what exactly the entertainer will provide, fees, payment terms).
I think where lots of people go wrong when planning this type of event is they treat it a lot like a child’s birthday party when it’s not. Adults need adult entertainment and that’s something that many overlook.