What to Say
If you want to know what to say, put yourself in the shoes of the restaurant manager. What is the number one concern for him on a daily basis? It's to get more business into his restaurant. So how will you help him do that?
I would let him know that you offer a very visual form of entertainment that makes people not notice how much time they had to wait for their food, delights kids and adults and is very family oriented. If people know that a clown will be at their restaurant every Wednesday evening they will make it a practice to go there on a regular basis.
Talk to him/her about what is the slowest night of the week and how you can help boost sales. It would be great if you asked him what are typical Wednesday night sales and that you would be willing to track Wednesday night sales to see the impact of your performing. I know of clowns who have brought in over $1000 in business on the normally slow nights.
By offering to track this information you also put yourself in a good position to getting an increase later... but first get the booking.
What to Bring
You should bring some literature as you would to any presentation. References, business cards, any literature or pictures. You may or may not need them but better to have them with you. Also, consider bringing a sample of what you do.
If you do balloons, bring a small pump and a few balloons to make a sample on the spot. Or some pocket magic or walk-around gags. But try to walk in light. Don't drag in your large balloon bag and pump or your facepaint kit.
What to Wear
On the subject of what to wear, come in dressed as a business professional. This speaks volumes to them to let them know you ARE a professional. I do not advise that you come in wearing your clown costume. And speak professionally, not in your clown voice.
Expect to negotiate a rate anywhere from $30 - $75 per hour for your services. I also negotiate to get a meal as part of the deal. Not to eat it there in my clown costume of course, but to come back later or as a take-out order.
This isn't a high paying job but look at the exposure you are getting! Be sure to discuss that you expect to be handing out your cards, are tips acceptable or unacceptable, can you provide a coloring page with your clown picture and contact information, your picture on the marquee and other marketing opportunities. Try to make it as easy for them as possible.
In our next Clown Marketing Tip we'll talk about what to do once you get the restaurant gig.
Yours for more shows, more money and more fun
Esther Beris - The Queen of Clown Marketing
440-298-1536
The Clown Marketing Blueprint
Clown Marketing Institute - for Clowns Serious about Growing Their Business
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