Companies hire entertainers for a variety of reasons, and understanding how the buying process works can help you get your foot in the door.  If you're a stage hypnotist who wants to get corporate hypnosis gigs, there are a few things you should know.

The first thing you need to understand is that there are three primary types of entertainers that companies hire: music acts, comedians, and variety acts. Stage hypnotists are a variety act.  Each type of entertainer serves a different purpose, and knowing which one you are can help you target the right companies and make sure you're the right fit for an event.

Music acts are usually hired to create a festive atmosphere or to provide background music. Comedians are usually hired to add levity and break up the monotony of a long event. Variety acts are usually hired to add excitement and energy to an event.

If you want to increase your chance to get corporate hypnosis gigs, then it is important to make sure that you are marketing yourself as an entertainer who can provide a unique and memorable experience. You are a novelty, and a stage hypnotism show is an exciting experience that most people have not had.  Company event planners are always on the lookout for new talent, so if you can show them that you have what it takes to provide an amazing show, then you will be one step closer to being hired.

The second thing you need to understand is that there are four primary reasons that companies hire entertainers: to thank employees, to impress clients, to generate publicity, and to increase morale. Knowing which one of these reasons is most important to the company you're targeting can help you tailor your pitch.  There are adjustments you can make to your show content that can play to some of these elements, and corporate planners love it when they feel like you're customizing something just for them.  It's good service to put in this extra effort.  Just make sure you don't promise anything you can't deliver on.

The third thing you need to understand is that there are three primary ways that companies find entertainers: through referrals, through entertainment agencies, or through online directories. Having a diversified approach to marketing your services is going to help you get corporate hypnosis gigs.  Maintain the relationships you have with people who make referrals, consider having an agent who specializes in the corporate market, and be sure that you are listed on various online platforms.

There can be a massive difference in the size and resources of these companies.  I once did a show for a paper company that was having a national meeting that brought together workers from all over the United States.  For them, paying me $3,500 to do a stage hypnosis show was not a big deal at all.  I also did a show for a company that provided social worker services to people.  They were a small organization of caregivers, and $3,500 was way out of their budget, so I adjusted my fee.  The buyer for each company is going to be different, even though on one level they're all the same, in terms of wanting to hire entertainment.

When you are trying to get corporate hypnosis gigs, one of the most important things that you can do is have a solid promotional video. (Ok, I don't appear in that video that's linked, but I did work that event.  It was the best corporate gig I ever had.) This video should highlight some of your best performances and give potential clients a taste of what they can expect if they hire you.  It's better to show them than tell them, and a promo video is a great way of showing them.

In review, keep the following points in mind when you're trying to get corporate hypnosis gigs:

1. Make sure that the event you're going for is a good match to you as a variety act.
2. Find out the primary reason the company is hiring entertainment and align yourself with that reason.
3. Work referrals, agencies, and online directories to source corporate gig opportunities.

Really understanding your buyer is the key to getting the gig.