|
|
Dennis Michael Inner circle Southern, NJ 5821 Posts |
Goal Setting: A Key to Success: Master Plan to Specifics
In other thread "Making A Million Dollars A Year in Magic Shows" the topic of goal setting was mentioned. It is such an important topic and it should have it's own thread. It could be placed under Tricky Business, however, the topic discussed within is related to a specific goal for children entertainers. This thread is about goals and objectives and how they can work for you to be successful in the children entertainment arena. Goal Statement: To Be Know Nationally as one of the Best Children Magician in the Country It is a goal which is a broad statement which does not define how to reach that goal. Goals are for the purpose of this thread, "Broad Statements". One could redefine the goals like these Broad Goal Statements:
Each one would be easier to define these goals than the original Goal Statement. Objectives are: Specific Objectives should be in written format spelling out how to reach that goal as well as how that goal will affect other goals. The Objective should be Specific and Detailed as much as possible, including a Meaningful Reason (The Motivation) on why you want to obtain that goal. It must be Measurable, so you can see the progress you're making toward that goal. It must be Attainable and Realistic so frustration and failure are not options. There must also be a Timetable for reaching that goal, including a Specific Periodical Evaluation of the Objective so it can be modified to meet the changing events that occur while accomplishing the objective.
For the purpose of this topic, in these times not the past, lets say one wanted "To Be Know Nationally as one of the Best Children Magician in the Country." They must be recognized by most children entertainers and what they do is liked by most children entertainers. How can this be accomplished in today time. These would help very much:
Add in:
Based on the Above can you think of individuals that would be considered having reached this goal? David Ginn, Sammy Smith, Barry Mitchell, Silly Billy, Dave Risley, Ken Scott, Jozo Bozo, Mike Bent, Tim Sonefelt, Marty Hahne, Kimmo, BJ Hickman, Terry Herbert, Trever Lewis, Emanuel Shabum, Duane Laflin, Mark Wade, Mark Daniel, Steve Axtell, etc. I sure there are more. Pick one and look at the lists. This give you ideas on what they did to accomplish the stated goal. It also lets you know what you need to do if this is your goal. If you are using stock routines with stock patter, then the chances are you will not accomplish this goal. Originality seems to be a major criteria in all/most those listed. Where do you start? How about a Signature Routine? How about being a great Birthday Party Magician or School Show Performer? Already do a great Birthday Party or School Show then Create a DVD.
Goal: Create a Birthday Party DVD. Objective: I will create a Birthday Party DVD based on my show and explain how and Why I do and say the thing I do in the show. This will increase sales for me, establish me as a Children Birthday Party Performer. (Meaningful/Motivation), This will be done by September 1st, 201x, I will begin and complete with the outline and script this week. This will detail the audience, place of performance, cameras and staff need to accomplish this DVD project. I will have a booklet which will accompany this DVD which will sell for $30.00. As you can see the first step in reaching the "Master Goal" is through a series of smaller goal accomplishments. The DVD is a good start, using the existing knowledge, and performance skills. For the DVD to sell well, a lot of originality would be an asset. Doing several DVDs set you up for the ability to combine this knowledge into a book. From this material, you may be asked to lecture, and the road to stardom begins.
Dennis Michael
|
magicgeorge Inner circle Belfast 4299 Posts |
Nice work, Dennis. I'm sure everyone who is similarly motivated will appreciate the time, effort and thought you put into it.
Although, is it wrong that I don't have any such goals? |
Dennis Michael Inner circle Southern, NJ 5821 Posts |
Not having goals is the norm. Goals only focus and lead to a desired direction. Written Objectives means you are really serious about obtaining that goal.
One additional thought, not having a goal may indicate you are content with where you are "at in life".
Dennis Michael
|
magicgeorge Inner circle Belfast 4299 Posts |
I think everyone has goals.
I personally just don't have goals related to making a zillion dollars or being famous among magicians. Most of mine are related to giving a great performance. I'll write that down and see if my act gets any better. |
Dennis Michael Inner circle Southern, NJ 5821 Posts |
I should have said not having written goals is the norm.
Unwritten goals, sure, like getting married, having kids, buying a car, etc. is in everyone. The point of this thread is the "How-To" reach a realistic goal, whatever that may be. Most people can have a goal but are not sure of the steps (objectives) necessary to reach the desired goal, whether it is a small goal or large goal. Once a goal is broken down to smaller stepping stones with an overall written plan, it makes it so much easier to reach that goal.
Dennis Michael
|
Dennis Michael Inner circle Southern, NJ 5821 Posts |
"Given a Great Performance" is a broad reachable goal. One must be careful on who's perspective what is a considered "a great performance". Many things can effect it like region, culture, age group, etc.
I would be interested in knowing what criteria you have in defining what exactly is a great performance. I am no asking for one that fits everyone, but one that fits you and your area of performance. A quick thought....Laughs Per Minute might be one way of defining a great performance.
Dennis Michael
|
Donald Dunphy Inner circle Victoria, BC, Canada 7563 Posts |
Dennis -
It would seem that you equate being nationally known among fellow children's magicians as a worthy goal. But I don't think it's quite the same as being nationally known among the public. Do you think that's a possible goal? It is for some children's musicians. Does being nationally known (and respected) by fellow children's magicians lead to being nationally known by the public? - Donald
Donald Dunphy is a Victoria Magician, British Columbia, Canada.
|
TomBoleware Inner circle Hattiesburg, Ms 3163 Posts |
Dennis, that is an excellent post. Well done. I am always amazed at how you break things down into lists. You make planning look so easy. When in reality that is what holds most people back. They can never see a clear path to the goal so they never begin.
Donald does bring up a good question. There has never been a nationally known children's magician among the public. Has there? I don't know of one, so certainly none of the laypeople I know could name one. Some may try and claim that title, but I would challenge any of them to prove it. We could call a few random numbers from an out of state phone book and see. Tom
The Daycare Magician Book
https://www.vanishingincmagic.com/amazekids/the-daycare-magician/ My Blog - https://boleware.blogspot.com/ |
TomBoleware Inner circle Hattiesburg, Ms 3163 Posts |
Well the old Mark Wilson TV show just popped in my mind.
So maybe a few in the public back then could have recognized the magic man on TV, but those days are over. Nobody like that today is it? Tom
The Daycare Magician Book
https://www.vanishingincmagic.com/amazekids/the-daycare-magician/ My Blog - https://boleware.blogspot.com/ |
Dennis Michael Inner circle Southern, NJ 5821 Posts |
Thanks Tom,
As you said before on the topic of goals, anything can be realized if the goal is realistic. There have been a few well know TV performers. Dick Williams Magicland and Mark Wilson's Land of Allakazam come to mind. Although not well know here there is Emanuel Shabum. Brad Ross got to be know because he was a major performer for Disney, however, the show was not about him it was to promote Disney. Donald, There is recognition among peers and public recognition. A goal could be either. I was focusing on how one could be recognized among peers, steps to get into the Magic Castle, or Lecture at KIDabra are two examples. If one wants to be a Chris Angel or David Blaine, then one needs to study their progress to stardom. (Good/Bad is not the issue from our perspective, it is from the public) TV boosted their careers. Same for the Mask Magician. TV will boost one quickly. See: Emanuel Shabum Bio to the TV World (You Tube Video) Quote:
Does being nationally known (and respected) by fellow children's magicians lead to being nationally known by the public? A quick answer to this is NO. Magicians view magicians much differently than would the public, IMO. TV is one of the most powerful marketing tools. Ask anyone "Define Sesame Street", Who is the Cookie Monster, etc. There is the magic of puppetry coming alive burned in the minds of children, their parents and now the grandparents. I can't name the actors, but I sure can name the puppet characters and sing the jingles. Exposure is a key to public recognition. Silly Billy's claim of being the #1 children magician came from where? TV. The top ten children entertainers is self proclaimed. The same is true if one has a TV program. One can say anything on TV and the viewing public WILL "believe it". Please don't misinterpret this about David Kaye. He has reached a level of Expert just by publishing his book among his peers. As for the #1 children entertainer, there are many different opinions on this. I think this title is still open to the right someone. Getting it will require numerous set of goals and well defined objectives.
Dennis Michael
|
pradell Special user Alaska 560 Posts |
It sounds like you are discussing the bare bones of a business plan.
I prepared business plans both for the day job and the entertainment business, and the plans were revisited and revised over time. They became living, breathing documents and helped me to become successful. There are many good books and templates which can help you formulate your "mission statement" i.e. your "goals" as Dennis describes, as well as your "plan" to realize these goals. Stepping back and seeing the big picture is always a good thing to do at certain intervals. It can help you make important decisions about where you have been, where you are, and where you want to be in the future. Without goals and a plan to achieve them, you spend your time primarily focusing on the fire you are putting out right now. Steven |
keeblem Inner circle Essex, UK 1167 Posts |
Quote:
On 2010-07-15 07:54, Dennis Michael wrote: If your main goal is to make a million dollars I don't think doing children's parties is the ideal business to get in. There must easier ways! Mark |
Dennis Michael Inner circle Southern, NJ 5821 Posts |
Quote:
On 2010-07-18 03:01, keeblem wrote: Ah..Yes Mark, but what fun it would be doing something one loves and getting paid for it. True, it is questionable making a million dollars just doing birthday parties. On the other hand, lets look at that goal: Goal: I want to make one million dollars a year doing Magical Birthday Parties. Now lets break this into smaller bits, and write some objectives. 1. One Million is $84,000 a Month. (Rounded up) 2. One Million is $20,000 a week. 3. One Million is 80 Birthday parties a week at $250 per party. 4. One Million is 40 Birthday Parties on a Saturday, and 40 parties on Sunday. Now we must ask ourselves how can we do this. If one person can do 4 shows a weekend, 20 persons can do 80 shows and 40 persons can do 160 shows and 60 persons can do 240 shows. Obviously, we need a business to accomplish this. We would need to design a great pack flat play big quick, set-up and reset show. We would need to train 60 persons to ensure they make money, you make money after expenses, and national advertisement. With 60 persons employed each doing 4 shows a weekend (240) at $250 per show, this would bring in $60,000 a week, grossing 3.12 Million a year. It doesn't seem so far fetched when we look at it this way. It would be easier if we could get people willing to come to us. Here's an idea (not new), lets create a place like Chuck E. Cheese! With back of the room (BOR) sales, pizza, soda, amusement games, etc. it now seems very possible. Objective: Within one year, I will create a MAGIC PARTY store front, by converting a building into a theater, amusement, electronic wonderland, and offer one different half-hour magic show every hour, starting at 10 AM and ending at 8PM. Store will be open from 9 AM to 9 PM. There will be numerous back of the room sales, magic kits, electronic games, prizes, food, and drinks. I will design this building and write a business plan, and apply for a small government business loan. Now is it doable? As Tom Boleware said: "It is impossible to set a realistic goal that you cannot reach. The mind will not allow you to write it down. Don't believe it? Try it. You CANNOT Seriously set a realistic goal that you can't reach. "
Dennis Michael
|
Dennis Michael Inner circle Southern, NJ 5821 Posts |
Steven,
Yes a business plan is all important. Here is the older one I created with comments showing I have met my objectives. The newer one limits Birthday Parties and incorporates Elementary Schools and Daycare/Preschools. ---------------------- Dennis Michael Magical Birthday Party Business Plan ----------------------- Draft Ver. 1.0: 1/01/2001 (Earlier Version) ----------------------- :ohyes: means I met or exceeded the criteria Vision Magical Birthday Parties vision is to make a "Magical Star" out of the local area children by providing them and their families with memories which will last a lifetime. ----------------------- Mission To provide the local community with a professional quality Magical Birthday Party Magic Show and though this medium become know as one of areas top children magician. ----------------------- Goals * Market Niche Goal: To Focus on the Children Birthday Parties in the Tri-State Area :ohyes: Unique Selling Position (USP) Goal: Provide a Complete Magical Birthday Party Package with a focus of turning the Birthday Child into Magical Star Magician for the day. The entertainer acts as a facilitator and guides the show in an entertaining way at the same time maintaining the focus on the child not the entertainer, which is normally the common method. :ohyes: Recognition Goal: To be Known a Top Children's Entertainer in the area :ohyes: Teaching Goal: To Lecture at Magic Conventions and Conferences at Local and National Levels :ohyes: Performance Goal: To Provide 100 Quality Birthday Party Magic Shows a Year in the Tri-State Area * Legacy Video Goal: To Prove the Magic Community with an Instructional Birthday Party Video * Legacy Writing Goal: To Prove the Magic Community with an Instructional Birthday Party Book :ohyes: Income Goal: To be Positioned at the top of the pay scale in the area. :ohyes: Market Tool Goal: Develop a Database of Satisfied Customers :ohyes: Market Tool Goal: Develop a Magical Birthday Party Internet Presence * Market Tool Goal: Develop a Magical Birthday Party EZ-to-Do Magic Video * Market Tool Client Awareness Goal: Send a Newsletter 3-4 times a Year * Market Tool Client Awareness Goal: Maintain Client Membership Fan Club ----------------------- Strategies :ohyes: Strategy Plan: Magical Birthday Party Package will be a complete party package, with balloons, costumes, and gifts which will focus on the birthday child as the star magician who will be a magician's assistant and produce a rabbit, float in the air, involve the parents, produce scarfs, and magically make things happen as if it was done magically by the birthday child. Even though the birthday child is the star, all of the party guest will be entertained, involved in the show, and enjoy the performance. The 45 minute magic show will add as an alternative, a balloon animal making session, and/or a tattoo session, and/or teach magic tricks for the older children's parties. :ohyes: Marketing Strategy: Advertise through Parent's Magazine, Flyers in places where mom's congregate such as beauty saloons, supermarkets, dance studios and use varies Promotional Strategies during the show to seek out additional shows. :ohyes: Technical Strategy: Be proficient with the selected magic effects and have various plug-in effects to add variety to the show for repeat customers and offer alternative entertainment packages such as balloon animals, tattoos, magic classes for older children. * Financial Strategy: Invest 20 percent of profits in Marketing Method to maintain and Increase Awareness of the Magical Birthday Party magician (Deleted) * Client Financial Strategy: Provide Costumers with Multi-level Shows to meet their budget :ohyes: Performance Strategy: Book up to 6 Magical Birthday Party Shows on Weekends to meat or exceed the goal of 100 Annual Shows ------------------ Tactics :ohyes: Marketing Plan: Develop a market plan and promotional strategy plan to gain customers by November 2003 :ohyes: Promotional Strategy Tools: List the Promotional strategy tools to be used. :ohyes: Marketing Tools: List the Marketing tools to be used. :ohyes: Magic Act 1: List of magic effects and illusionettes to be performed. ------------------------- The above was my original business plan for Birthday Parties plan. It has going through revisions sin that time and has been view the 1st of every year. I no longer do 6 shows a weekend, I took out the Multi-level shows (Basic, Enhanced, Deluxe Shows and present one show). I found it difficult spending 20% Marketing, and reduced it to 10%. I still haven't created a video, wrote a book, send newsletters, or created a fan club. I have performed and lectured at KIDabra International and Local Organizations, meeting some objectives. I have created and maintain a local KIDabra Chapter to further promote the business of entertaining children.
Dennis Michael
|
TomBoleware Inner circle Hattiesburg, Ms 3163 Posts |
Quote:
On 2010-07-18 06:10, Dennis Michael wrote: Dennis, having a party store is not a bad idea. In the right location it could actually become a million dollar business. Yes it would require more than just doing a few shows, but that is the price you must pay. Let me also add that, the 'how to' will always come to the person that 'wants to.' Sure you may have to brainstorm through some wild ideas to get to a realistic idea, but so what. You may have to change plans along the way too, but so what. Also worth saying, you can't keep doing the same thing you doing now and expect different results. Reaching a goal, especially a big one, will require some change. Most people aren't looking for change so they reject a plan that requires it. But you know what, goal setting is not all about making a million dollars, and many think unless that is the goal, then you don't really need a goal at all. You do. You need to set (and reach) smaller goals in order to gain confidence. How can you earn a million dollars without first earning a few thousands. You need the self-confidence. As your confidence grows, the bigger goals become more realistic. I personally believe that it all comes down to having the confidence to just try. Most people are already earning what they "think" they are capable of earning. Most people never begin because they can't see a possible end. This is why planning is so important. If a goal and a plan could increase your income by fifty thousand, ten thousand, or even one thousand dollars, wouldn't it be worth it. Of course goal setting and planning is not nearly as easy as Dennis makes it look with his examples. For most people that is the hardest part. Honestly, he should write a book on magic planning. He certainly has the knack for mapping goals out. Having sample plans for setting the many needed goals within magic would certainly be a good investment for any magician. Maybe call it, "Magic Mapping For Magicians." Go for it Dennis. Tom
The Daycare Magician Book
https://www.vanishingincmagic.com/amazekids/the-daycare-magician/ My Blog - https://boleware.blogspot.com/ |
JamesinLA Inner circle Los Angeles 3400 Posts |
Dennis,
I like the way you think. One question: how does creating a birthday dvd of your show help you make a million? Thanks for all the hard work. Jim
Oh, my friend we're older but no wiser, for in our hearts the dreams are still the same...
|
Dennis Michael Inner circle Southern, NJ 5821 Posts |
OK, there are two topics here. One is theoretical, to put out any goal can be realized if one looks at it in it's basic parts.
Your question relates to the question where goals are similar to a business plan. I showed my business, plan, and explained it. No where is it listed I would make a million in my business plan. Only that I wanted to make Develop a Magical Birthday Party EZ-to-Do Magic Video, which I haven't done yet. In the example of millions, I suggested BORs in a Chucky E Cheese like Party room where DVD would be sold. DVDs add to the total income if one has a goal to reach a certain amount.
Dennis Michael
|
JamesinLA Inner circle Los Angeles 3400 Posts |
Okay, it sounds like it's a personal goal to have a dvd for other magicians. But it is a very limited market. However, making a dvd to sell as BOR makes sense to me as a money making goal.
Jim
Oh, my friend we're older but no wiser, for in our hearts the dreams are still the same...
|
Dennis Michael Inner circle Southern, NJ 5821 Posts |
One of my goals is to: Develop a Magical Birthday Party EZ-to-Do Magic Video which consists of 25 EZ to do tricks, to sell as a BOR sales, during the numerous fundraisers I've been doing. It just one of those things I never got around to doing.
I considered it as a generic DVD that could be used by other magicians with just a voice over change in the beginning so it could be personalized for any magician, such as yourself.
Dennis Michael
|
The Magic Cafe Forum Index » » The little darlings » » Goal Setting: A Key to Success: Master Plan to Specifics (0 Likes) |
[ Top of Page ] |
All content & postings Copyright © 2001-2024 Steve Brooks. All Rights Reserved. This page was created in 0.11 seconds requiring 5 database queries. |
The views and comments expressed on The Magic Café are not necessarily those of The Magic Café, Steve Brooks, or Steve Brooks Magic. > Privacy Statement < |