Hire Smart, Avoid Surprises
A flashy website or clever promo video doesn’t always mean a great live experience. To make sure you’re getting a seasoned pro (not a surprise act), here are five questions every event planner should ask before signing a contract.
1. Can I See a Full Performance Video?
Highlights are designed to impress. What you really need is the uncut footage. This shows how the performer interacts with the crowd, manages timing, and lands the finish.
Green Flag: They share a recent, full-length corporate or private event video.
Red Flag: They avoid sharing anything but edited reels.
2. Do You Specialize in Corporate or Private Events?
Someone who knows the world of conferences, galas, and staff parties will:
- Understand the tone and expectations
- Adapt to tight schedules
- Know how to keep things professional and clean
Green Flag: Their site, reviews, and material are corporate-friendly.
Red Flag: They focus mostly on festivals, bars, or public shows.
3. Can You Customize the Show for My Audience or Theme?
A strong entertainer can:
- Reference your industry or brand
- Use company names or products in routines
- Align their energy with the event tone (formal, playful, motivational)
Green Flag: They offer to tailor content in advance.
Red Flag: They insist the show is “one size fits all.”
4. What Are Your Technical and Setup Requirements?
Avoid surprises by clarifying:
- Arrival and setup time
- Sound check timing
- Mic and stage needs
- Backup plans in case of equipment failure
Green Flag: They provide a clear tech rider.
Red Flag: They say, “Don’t worry, I’ve got it all covered”—but provide no details.
5. Will You Provide a Contract?
A professional performer will offer a simple, signed agreement that protects both sides.
Green Flag: They use contracts.
Red Flag: They work on a verbal promise only.
Conclusion: A Few Good Questions = A Great Show
Ask these questions early, and you’ll weed out the amateurs fast. You’ll also build trust with the right performer—someone who makes your event easier, not harder.
Want to work with a corporate performer who checks all five boxes? Reach out today to discuss availability.