In this digital age, it’s easy to get lost in all the content that’s out there. More than ever, entertainers are finding it difficult to get their talent noticed, much less requested for events. With a GigSalad PromoKit, performers can use our high search engine ranking to get discovered by event hosts and planners looking for entertainment. But how do you stand out among other performers listed on GigSalad? Easy. Market your talent with a great bio.
I guess “easy” might be stretching it a bit. A lot of performers struggle with the marketing aspect of their business because they are their business. How do you describe how unique your talent is without it sounding like shameless self-promotion? A well-crafted bio doesn’t have to be long and flowery, but it does need to be more than a laundry list of services. Here are a few tips to help you grab your reader’s attention.
Start with your purpose.
To prepare your bio, it’s important to have a goal in mind. Many performers are trying to stand out among the competition. Others are simply trying to show how their talent, although uncommon or even bizarre, can entertain guests at any ordinary event. Whatever your goal may be, keep this in mind when you’re brainstorming. Ask yourself these questions:
Who am I trying to reach?
What are their interests?
What do I want them to do?
Once you’ve pinpointed your audience, it’s much easier to find the best ways to spark their interests.
Find your voice.
Will you choose first-or third-person format? In first-person, you can make the readers feel like you’re speaking directly to them. If your goal is to create an emotional connection, brand marketers recommend using first-person format so your audience can easily relate to you. Write about what led you to your work, your greatest mentors, and your progress. If you choose to use first-person format, don’t be afraid to list off your achievements. Event hosts are more likely to book an accomplished professional with great reviews.
Third-person has its benefits as well. You can easily list out your achievements without feeling boastful, and potential clients may assume your PromoKit is being handled by your Act Manager. If written well, this presents you as a professional who operates a fully booked gigging calendar.
Be concise.
There are several sections in your GigSalad PromoKit where you can use text to market your talents. The most important section for you to be concise and engaging is in the brief overview that describes what you do. This is where you can really sell your services.
Because people tune out overly promotional or commonly used messages, you’ll want to use eye-catching language. However, make sure your text is tasteful and relevant to your services. Using all caps or symbols looks spammy and unprofessional. It’s also a red flag for potential clients who may already feel hesitant to book online.
If you’ve drawn a potential client in with your brief overview, now’s your chance to use your storytelling skills in your bio. In the details section, you can write about your history, your performance experiences, and all the things that make you unique.
It may seem like a good idea to display a wordy description of your talents, but this may be what loses your reader. Users are inundated with content, so you’ll want to get to the point right away. When you write concisely, your message contains more weight. You’re quickly delivering the information your readers are searching for. To help you edit your sentences down, we recommend a tool called the Hemingway Editor. This app highlights hard-to-read sentences and unnecessary words, making your writing clear and effective.
Be consistent.
Keeping a consistent message on all your platforms is important. Your voice is your brand, and your brand is what makes you recognizable. You’ll want to grab snippets from one well-written bio and place them on your other social platforms and website.
Each social media and marketing platform has a predominant demographic. In an article from Business Insider, the most popular social sites are listed with their most frequent users. Data like this helps you understand your audience and use content that engages them.
Get it proofed.
Spelling, punctuation, and correct word usage are essential for a great bio. We know firsthand, your content is only as powerful as your readers perceive it to be. When we write about the best practices to fill your “giggling” calendar, we’re not giving useful advice. One minor error can change the entire message.
This can be avoided with a fresh set of eyes. Having another person read your work can help you catch mistakes and clarify any concepts your readers may be unfamiliar with. If you don’t have someone available for final edits, read your piece out loud. You can find missing words that your brain may have filled in but your text did not.
Keep it updated.
Because you’re getting more experience with each gig, it’s important to update your information frequently. Potential clients want to know about your latest accomplishments. Include any awards and/or testimonials you’ve received and make a habit of keeping those current. This shows event hosts that you’re active, professional, and available to book.
We wish you the best of luck showing the world what makes you unique!
Excellent information. Thank you!
My pleasure! I’m so glad you found it helpful :)