Episode 14: How Do You Approach the 'Business' in Show Business?

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How to Approach the Business Side of Show Business

The term "Show Business" is a two-part equation: the Show (the art of performance) and the Business (the strategy behind the scenes). In this EPICsode of Put Your Funny Where Your Mouth Is, Vince Carone and Dobie Maxwell delve into the Business side, breaking down the essential practices every comedian needs to master offstage.

From recording your sets to building a web presence and valuing your time, this episode offers a comprehensive guide to navigating the often-overlooked aspects of the industry. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your career to the next level, Vince and Dobie share actionable tips and hard-earned insights to help you succeed in comedy as a sustainable business.

Record Everything: Your Performances Are Your Product

Every time you step on stage, you’re presenting a product: your act. By recording your sets, you create an archive that allows you to evaluate your performance, track progress, and showcase your skills to potential bookers. More importantly, having a record of your work enables you to adapt your material for different venues and audiences.

Whether it's finding the bits that resonate or discovering areas for improvement, recordings are invaluable for growth. Plus, they can serve as proof of your ability to deliver clean, sharp performances for corporate gigs or festivals.

Pro Tip: Set up your phone or camera at every show. Even if the venue is small or the crowd isn’t ideal, you never know when a spontaneous ad-lib could turn into comedy gold.

Build a Web Presence: Your Brand Lives Online

If a booker or potential client searches for you online, what will they find? A web presence isn’t optional—it’s the cornerstone of your professional credibility. Whether it’s a full-fledged website or an active Instagram page, your online footprint should clearly showcase who you are and what you offer.

Think of your web presence as your digital business card. It should include a bio, headshots, videos, and a way to contact you. For more privacy, consider creating hidden pages that only bookers can access, featuring exclusive content like polished clips and electronic press kits.

Pro Tip: Keep your online content polished. Avoid sharing early performances or unrefined material—it’s better to have fewer, high-quality clips than a library of “dirty diapers.”

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How to Approach the Business Side of Show Business

Success in comedy isn’t just about being funny—it’s about understanding and mastering the business side of the industry. The behind-the-scenes effort is often what separates those who succeed long-term from those who remain stuck. From recording your sets to establishing a strong web presence, the steps you take offstage are just as critical as the performance itself.

Record Everything: Your Performances Are Your Product

Every time you step on stage, you’re presenting a product: your act. By recording your sets, you create an archive that allows you to evaluate your performance, track progress, and showcase your skills to potential bookers. More importantly, having a record of your work enables you to adapt your material for different venues and audiences.

Whether it's finding the bits that resonate or discovering areas for improvement, recordings are invaluable for growth. Plus, they can serve as proof of your ability to deliver clean, sharp performances for corporate gigs or festivals.

Pro Tip: Set up your phone or camera at every show. Even if the venue is small or the crowd isn’t ideal, you never know when a spontaneous ad-lib could turn into comedy gold.

Build a Web Presence: Your Brand Lives Online

If a booker or potential client searches for you online, what will they find? A web presence isn’t optional—it’s the cornerstone of your professional credibility. Whether it’s a full-fledged website or an active Instagram page, your online footprint should clearly showcase who you are and what you offer.

Think of your web presence as your digital business card. It should include a bio, headshots, videos, and a way to contact you. For more privacy, consider creating hidden pages that only bookers can access, featuring exclusive content like polished clips and electronic press kits.

Pro Tip: Keep your online content polished. Avoid sharing early performances or unrefined material—it’s better to have fewer, high-quality clips than a library of “dirty diapers.”

Get Yourself Booked: Be Your Own Agent

Learning to book yourself is one of the most empowering skills you can develop. This isn’t about waiting for opportunities—it’s about creating them. Reach out to venues, introduce yourself professionally, and clearly outline what you bring to the table.

Understand the economics of putting on a show: How many tickets need to be sold to cover costs? What’s the best ticket price for the audience and venue? Taking ownership of these details will not only secure gigs but also deepen your understanding of the industry.

Pro Tip: When pitching yourself, provide bookers with everything they need: a polished video, a professional bio, and a clear pricing structure. Make it as easy as possible for them to say yes.

Know Your Value: Charge What You’re Worth

One of the hardest lessons in comedy is learning to value your time and talent. Undercharging can cost you gigs just as much as overcharging. When setting your price, factor in not just the time spent on stage but also the preparation, travel, and overall value you’re providing to the event.

Remember, your rate communicates your professionalism. Charging too little may make clients question the quality of your work, while charging appropriately shows confidence and ensures you’re compensated fairly.

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure about pricing, research what others in your field are charging for similar gigs. Don’t undervalue yourself—experience and professionalism come at a premium.

Brand Yourself: Make It Memorable

Your name alone might not stand out in a crowded industry. Attaching a memorable brand or hook to your act can make you more marketable. Whether it’s a moniker like “The Bad Father” or a tagline that reflects your comedy style, a strong brand helps bookers and audiences remember you.

A brand isn’t just a gimmick—it’s a signal to the audience about what they can expect. It also makes it easier for venues to market you and for you to build a loyal fan base.

Pro Tip: Invest in a logo or visual identity that reflects your brand. Use it consistently across your website, posters, and promotional materials to reinforce your image.

Why the "Business" Matters

Mastering the business side of comedy is about more than getting booked—it’s about building a sustainable career. From recording your sets to branding yourself effectively, these steps ensure you stand out in a competitive industry. Remember, being funny is just one part of the equation; understanding the business is what keeps you in the game.

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