From a very young age we learn that selling is bad. Anyone who is constantly pushing their goods or services and doesn’t take no for an answer shouldn’t be trusted. We’re taught that any sort of marketing might be unethical. We’re taught to be bashful when it comes to promotion.
We don’t want to bug people or seem needy so we don’t promote. Do you think marketing is a bad thing?
If you answered “yes” and you’re still wondering why you don’t have anyone coming to your productions. It’s time to STOP THINKING THAT WAY.
If you’re not so shy and do plenty of promoting but it’s still not working, I’ll have another post for you soon.
Let’s look at it from another point of view…
Have you ever been to a performance and been inspired? Did it brighten your day? Did it teach you something about yourself? Did it make you laugh or cry? Did you feel more alive after going? Did you get ideas for your next show? Did you find new meaning in your life or career?
I’m guessing you have.
So now that you have a production that could have the same effect on someone. By not actively promoting it, you may be DEPRIVING SOMEONE OF THAT SAME EXPERIENCE.
That’s right. You could be doing a disservice to the world by not promoting your show.
So find those people that your show appeals to, who you think would be inspired by what you have to give. Don’t say everyone or anyone — be specific — there’s no way that one show appeals to everyone in the world, let alone everyone you know. Give it a try. Remember that you could be helping someone, hell, maybe even saving someone’s life. So stop being shy, emerge from your chrysalis of bashfulness and emerge a beautiful marketing butterfly!