The moment you start looking for corporate entertainment ideas you get bombarded. Search results and entertainment agencies overwhelm you. There are so many different styles of corporate entertainers.
Before you begin to narrow down the selection, there is something important to know. Anyone can call themselves corporate entertainers. There is no license, or credentialed program that distinguishes one from another. So what makes corporate entertainers corporate?
First, you need to realize not all corporate performers are entertainers. Just because someone has a skill or talent, doesn't mean it is entertaining. Unfortunately some feel that is enough. They learn some magic tricks, or how to juggle and try to get shows. These acts borrow a couple of jokes from other entertainers and perform them. It may be entertaining at times, but they only know their act. If the situation changes, they suffer and can fail on-stage.
Entertainers on the other hand concentrate on the audience in front of them. An entertainer can talk about nothing and rivet the crowd. The talent is there as a vehicle to engage people through a personality driven program.
This makes the entertainer more flexible and more in demand than a performer. Would you want someone who could freeze when thrown a curve? Or someone that could run with changes, stay relaxed and make everyone happy?
How can you tell the difference? Read reviews, watch video, talk with previous clients and communicate with the act. Ask them what would happen if their show slot was reduced to 10 minutes instead of 30. Find out how they handle going on later than scheduled. Learn what they would do if the program had to be stretched to accomodate a change.
Now you know the difference between corporate performers and corporate entertainers. But what makes them corporate?
Corporate entertainers are not there to perform. They are there to represent your company. These entertainers realize the program is one small, albeit important, part of your event. Their concern is making certain your company's needs and goals are met.
Performers and entertainers who do not specialize in corporate entertainment don't think this way. They think in terms of their act. To them, the act is the most important part of your event. They lose sight of the bigger picture.
These part-time corporate entertainers advertise different types of shows on their web sites. If they perform for all occasions, beware. As an event planner, your reputation is on the line. You need entertainment that you can rely on. After all, their performance reflects on you.
How can you avoid part time corporate entertainers? Talk to them. Are they trying to sell you on the features of their program? If so, they have a product and want you to buy it.
An experienced corporate entertainer realizes they are not the right match for every function. They will ask questions and try to determine if the program would be a match for your needs. If it isn't, they will make suggestions. They don't want to look bad and that insures that you will look good!
If you need corporate entertainers for your next event, contact our office. We are happy to offer corporate entertainment ideas that can make your next event incredible!
