Quite recently I have been getting booking inquiries and the person who is calling or emailing suggests meeting up over lunch to
'see what I do'. The thing is, my brochure explains in almost explicit detail what I do (normal close-up stuff) and I send out copies of testimonial letters so that people can see I am half-decent. Despite this, they still want to get together and see a few tricks. Does anyone else get this?!

Not often. Unless he/she's a wealthy eccentric who's going to give $1000 to entertain his pet poodles, I'd politely tell them that as a working professional, it's very hard for you, time from your many bookings (it doesn't matter how many you have, make it sound like a lot), just to show him a few tricks. Be very nice about it, of course, but I wouldn't do it unless you are guaranteed a gig.

Jeb (Sable)

Wow, do I disagree with that! One of my very favorite methods for getting a gig is to give a brief live demo, as opposed to sending a video. I don't even have a video or a fancy brochure!

It has got me the gig MANY times, as a lot of magicians aren't willing to do it. And I know that, at least in my area, if they are interviewing and previewing, I'm gonna get the gig!

Sure, it's a half hour out of my day. It's also pretty much a sure booking for hundreds or even thousands of dollars, and it gives them the feeling that they know me. They are comfortable hiring me, and they can discuss in detail any special requirements, etc.

As I said, this is one of my favorite marketing ploys, and it gets me hundreds of bookings and thousands of dollars per year, that the guys who are mailing the videos and fancy brochures don't get!

In this day and age, people are bombarded by media of all kinds. I have found that, at least for me, personal contact, service, and a willingness to go the extra mile makes all the difference!

It depends on the size of the gig and the distance involved. It also depends on the fees you are charging! For instance, if it would cost as much to travel to the meeting as your fee, it would be pretty dumb to go.

Otherwise Scott is right. Besides, I'll go anywhere for a free lunch.

Paul Hallas.

I give a demo if asked for providing that it does not cost too much. It has secured several bookings.

If you were going to hire a singer, comedian, or any kind of entertainer for a function, would you hire them without seeing them or hearing them? I wouldn't. I guess my only exception would be if they came recommended by someone I respect.

Clearly, I'm not talking about travelling out of my area for a free demo. Hence, the phrase, "It's a half hour out of my day."

And while I think there are WAY too many magicians charging for their shows too soon, I think there are equally as many accomplished ones who don't charge enough!

That is why it is important to have a place you showcase at. A weekly restaurant is great for this.

Also you don't have to impress the person hiring you, they will see the reaction of others.

"Tap dancing on a hot griddle in bare feet is hard, if your toe nails aren't long enough."

[sorry just wanted to have a quote like everyone else]

Personally, I think the best part of my promotion is...ME! If they are only half convinced about hiring me after the onslaught of the promotional blurb, I know they'll be impressed after seeing me in the flesh, so I take any chance I can to show them what I do (within reason, obviously!)

Some times people just want to meet you. Take your free lunch and get the gig...
Jim

Absolutly go do lunch. I get a lot of business exactly that way. Remember robots doing tricks would not be very interesting. So what I am trying to say is "You are what makes the magic special." They want to know that you are someone they can have around their guests. By the way, at this kind of lunch I never ask to borrow money for an effect. I don't want them to get the idea I am going to hustle their guests for cash. Make sure you have about 3 things you can do impromptu that are real good and tie together nicely while totally surrounded by people. Some of best contracts have been negotiated over lunch.
Go get 'em, have fun.
Telemus

I've gotten on a plane and traveled halfway across the country to meet with prospective clients. Of course you must qualify them making sure they are very serious about you and your show, but for the right gig for the right money, It's worth the trip. I don't think I've ever made one of these trips and not gotten the booking. I might not get on a plane to audition for a private show (I would meet them locally over lunch or other convenient place), but for a corporate meeting or trade show...I'm there.