In the competitive world of comedy, talent alone might not be enough to guarantee success. In fact there is nothing funny about the funny business.
It is hard work!
We've all heard the ancient question of "If a tree falls in the forest and nobody heard it...did it make a sound?"
Well if you put out that hilarious bit that took you 4 years and nobody watched it...did it make a difference?
5 Steps to Promote Yourself as a Stand Up Comedian
Self-promotion plays a crucial role in getting your name out there and building a loyal fan base.
Does more popularity mean better comedian?
Of course not.
First and foremost work on your art which is your product. This entire post assumes you already have a tight 30-60 minutes you can perform across the country.
But at the same time...if even billion dollar Oscar winning movies need a marketing team...well so too do you need to have a plan for getting your art to be seen.
Whether you're an aspiring stand-up comedian or already hitting the comedy club circuit, here are five key steps to effectively promote yourself and enhance your comedy career.
1. Treat Social Media as a Job
Consistent Presence
Social media is a powerful tool for self-promotion. Treat your online platforms like a job by maintaining a consistent presence. Regularly post engaging content, including jokes, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and updates on your upcoming shows.
Platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok are excellent for reaching diverse audiences. Your audiences are on their phone and you need to find a way to be in front of them.
In the olden days that meant getting a sitcom on ABC to sell tickets to see you live. Today it means grabbing their social media likes and then making sure they see your post when you pass by their city.
Build a Brand
Establish a unique and authentic online persona that aligns with your comedic style. Use a recognizable profile picture, create a memorable username, and develop a consistent tone in your posts.
Building a brand helps your audience connect with you and remember your comedic identity.
Engage with Your Audience
Respond to comments, messages, and mentions. Engaging with your audience fosters a sense of community and loyalty. Consider hosting Q&A sessions, polls, or live streams to interact directly with your fans.
The more personal and approachable you appear, the more likely people will want to support your comedy journey.
Every open mic has comics lingering around and gossiping while waiting to do their set.
Why not use that time to do your digital PR? Wouldn't that be time better spent?
2. Learn to Film Yourself
Quality Content
In an era dominated by visual content, filming yourself is a game-changer.
Correctly filming yourself is what separates good comedians from even better ones.
Invest in a good camera and lens. Teach other comics around how to use your gear.
Share snippets of your stand-up routines on social media, giving potential fans a taste of your comedic style.
Learn to Edit Videos and Create a YouTube Channel
Establish a YouTube channel dedicated to showcasing your comedy.
Regularly upload clips, vlogs, or even sketches to keep your channel active.
YouTube is a massive platform, and having your content easily accessible can attract a broader audience and potential opportunities.
It'll probably take you 160 hours...or four weeks full time to learn how to properly film and edit. You can find a million free courses online.
But once you do you are ahead of 90% of comedians and will have a skill for life. In fact you can even edit videos for other comics and make $50-$500 a pop doing it.
3. Learn to Comment on Current Events
Comics need to learn how to write on demand...not just when they feel like it or are in the zone.
If a late night talk show offered you $20,000 a month to write for them...wouldn't you be glad you can churn out zingers on the latest political gaff, athlete blunder or blockbuster movie?
Stay Relevant
Being aware of and commenting on current events demonstrates that you're tuned in to the world around you.
Incorporate relevant, humorous observations into your routines or social media posts. However, be mindful to avoid sensitive topics or controversial issues that may alienate your audience.
Timeliness is Key
Act quickly when commenting on current events.
Social media moves fast, and being one of the first to share a comedic take on a trending topic can garner attention.
Use trending hashtags and engage with ongoing conversations to increase your visibility.
A well timed viral tweet on a fresh topic can you get you 5,000 extra followers overnight which could be the difference between 10 people and 100 at your next club date in Orlando.
4. Networking and Collaborations
Attend Comedy Events
Networking is an invaluable aspect of self-promotion. Attend comedy events, open mics, and industry gatherings to connect with fellow comedians, event organizers, and potential collaborators. Establishing meaningful connections within the comedy community can lead to new opportunities and exposure.
Collaborate with Other Comics and Photographers
Collaborations on social media or live performances with other comedians can introduce you to their audience and vice versa. Cross-promotion allows you to tap into different fan bases and diversify your reach.
Utilize Online Platforms
Join online forums, groups, or communities dedicated to comedy. Platforms like Reddit or specialized comedy forums can provide opportunities to share your work, receive feedback, and connect with like-minded individuals.
5. Leverage Local Media and Publicity
Press Releases
Write compelling press releases about your upcoming shows, achievements, or unique aspects of your comedy.
Distribute them to local media outlets, including newspapers, radio stations, and online publications.
Getting featured in local news can significantly boost your visibility. Even a blog like this is a perfect example of just "being out there."
Build Relationships with Journalists
Establish relationships with local journalists who cover entertainment and events. Invite them to your shows and provide them with engaging content. A positive review or feature in the media can introduce you to a broader audience.
Utilize Local Platforms
Leverage local platforms, such as community bulletin boards, local magazines, or community radio stations. These outlets can help you connect with your immediate community and build a strong local fan base.
Conclusion
In conclusion, successful self-promotion is a multifaceted endeavor that involves utilizing social media strategically, creating engaging content, staying current, networking, and leveraging local media.
People like Gary Vee get a bad wrap...but if you read his books once you get past the bravado and loud persona...it all makes sense. Go where they eyeballs currently are...whether that is TikTok, Instagram, LinkedIn or who knows what tomorrow.
By adopting these steps, you can enhance your visibility, connect with a broader audience, and take significant strides toward a successful career in comedy.
Remember, it's not just about being funny on stage; it's also about effectively showcasing that humor to the world.
You could be that comic who is always complaining about how the less funnier comics are famous...or you could get to work.
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