How to Hire a Corporate Magician

Corporate magicians can infuse any corporate event with vibrant energy, often creating memorable moments that attendees will talk about long after the event has ended. However, not all performers may meet your company’s high standards. It’s crucial to find an entertainer who is not only skilled in their craft but also personable and professional. So, how do you make sure you’re choosing the right entertainment for your event? Whether you’re considering hiring a magician, juggler, comedian, or another type of performer, here are some steps to help you secure the best possible corporate entertainer.

The most straightforward method to find a top-notch corporate magician is through a trusted referral. Check with colleagues who have organized similar events to see if they have any recommendations. If that’s not feasible, consider these steps:

  1. Start the Search: Begin by identifying potential entertainers who specialize in corporate events.
  2. Look for Reviews: Check online reviews to gauge past client satisfaction.
  3. Watch Videos: View performance videos to get a sense of their style and audience interaction.
  4. Check Availability: Ensure they’re available on your event date.
  5. Verify Insurance: Confirm that the entertainer has the appropriate insurance.
  6. Request a Proposal or Quote: Have them provide a detailed proposal outlining their services and costs.
  7. Make Your Decision: Choose the performer who best fits your event’s needs and budget.

When planning an event, whether it’s to celebrate an anniversary, a successful deal, or to recognize a company’s high achievers, choosing the right entertainment is critical. For instance, a face painter might not be the best choice for a law firm’s celebration. Consider what you want your guests to experience—do you prefer an interactive show to keep them engaged, or something more subdued to add a touch of intrigue and wonder?

Strolling entertainment suits a cocktail hour or reception where guests are mingling, but you may need a stage magician, mentalist, MC, or comedian for an awards ceremony with a seated audience. Tailoring the entertainment to fit the nature of your event requires thoughtful consideration but is essential for ensuring its success.

1. Begin the Search

When you don’t have a referral, the internet is your best friend. Thanks to the wonders of Google, you can access a plethora of entertainment options with just a few keystrokes. Start by entering terms like “Magician for Corporate Event,” “Corporate Mentalist,” or “Corporate Entertainment Ideas.” This will give you a vast array of potential entertainers right at your fingertips. Begin by compiling a list of possible entertainers for your event. In the steps that follow, we’ll guide you on how to refine this list to identify the best candidates.

Once you’ve gathered a few ideas for corporate entertainment, it might be a good idea to involve your audience in the decision-making process. After all, the event is for their enjoyment. With the overwhelming number of entertainment options available online, asking for their input can help ensure that the entertainment you choose will engage your audience effectively.

2. Find Reviews

Personality and professionalism are crucial when choosing a corporate entertainer, and reviews often provide a wealth of insight. When scouting for a performer, it’s important to find someone who has a solid track record of entertaining adult audiences. Examining a performer’s reviews can quickly give you a sense of their experience and suitability for your event. Pay attention to three key aspects: the quality of the reviews, the quantity, and whether the reviews reflect experiences from similar types of events as yours. The language and descriptors used by reviewers can clue you in on whether the entertainer’s style aligns with what you’re looking for. If the reviews are promising, the next step is to view the performer’s videos to get a better feel for their act.

3. Watch the Highlight Reel

Watch the performer’s promotional video to gauge their style and level of talent. A high-quality video often indicates that the entertainer is serious about their craft, as professionals typically ensure every aspect of their brand reflects their commitment to excellence. Ideal demo reels are concise, typically around 60 seconds, and showcase highlights from previous performances. It’s particularly promising if the video includes clips from events similar to the one you’re planning. Additionally, these videos serve as a useful tool you can share with colleagues or others involved in the hiring process, allowing you to gather their opinions and make a more informed decision together.

4. Check Availability

Once you’ve brainstormed some corporate entertainment ideas, it’s wise to engage your audience in the selection process. After all, the event is for their enjoyment. With just a few searches on Google, such as “Magician for Corporate Event,” “Corporate Mentalist,” or “Corporate Entertainment Ideas,” you’ll find a multitude of options. This variety, while beneficial, can sometimes feel overwhelming.

There are several platforms that can assist you in finding local talent. Start by exploring the top search results and compiling a list of potential entertainers for your event.

Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, it’s time to determine if a performer is the right fit. Contact them via email, phone, or their website’s contact form to check their availability. If they’re available for your event date, that’s great! Next, you’ll want to gauge their professionalism further. A phone call can reveal a lot about their energy, personality, and punctuality—all important traits.

5. Ask for Certificate of Insurance

This is an essential step. Every professional full-time performer should have an insurance policy for their events, which is often required by venues. Request a copy of the performer’s insurance certificate. If they can provide it quickly and easily, that’s a good sign of their professionalism.

6. Ask for a Proposal (or Quote)

The next step is to request a proposal. If the performer can provide a detailed and professionally crafted proposal promptly, it’s a strong indicator of their professionalism. If they only offer a simple quote over email, it might suggest they lack the professionalism you require for your event. After collecting proposals or quotes from various candidates, reflect on the options and decide how much you’re willing to invest in entertainment. Remember, the more experienced and reputable a performer is, the higher their fee is likely to be.

7. Make Your Decision

Now it’s time to make your decision. This thorough process equips you with the information needed to evaluate each performer’s professionalism. Choose the entertainer who best aligns with your event’s needs and seems poised to provide an exceptional experience for your guests. Then, finalize all the details with them. Chances are, any professional you select will have a standardized contract ready, which will help formalize your agreement and secure their services for your event.

Conclusion

While it may seem like a lot of effort, investing a bit more time in the planning stages can prevent headaches later on. By following these steps, you’ll ensure that the entertainer you choose is professional, experienced, and personable. Most importantly, they’ll deliver a performance that your guests will remember for years to come!

If you want a performer that will uphold the integrity of your brand and make it one to remember, fill out the form below and we’ll be in touch!