From Zero to Fully Booked: How NZ Entertainers Specialists Get Their First 10 Clients
Getting started as an entertainer in New Zealand can be daunting when you're trying to secure those first few paying gigs. But with the right approach that's tailored to Kiwi audiences and communities, landing your first 10 clients is absolutely achievable. This guide shares 10 practical, real-world tips to grow your bookings and build a sustainable entertainment business.
Here are some tips that you might find interesting:
1. Start with Family and Friends
Your immediate circle is often the most supportive place to begin. Family, friends, and neighbours are likely to give you those early gigs and honest feedback to help boost your confidence.
One Wellington musician landed a steady stream of bookings by performing at friends’ and family gatherings - these turned into paid gigs through referrals.
Weirdly enough, even small shows for your community can lead to bigger opportunities.
2. Join Local Online Groups and Forums
Facebook groups such as “Auckland Events & Entertainment” or “Christchurch Community Hub” are where event organisers and locals look for entertainment recommendations.
Share compelling snippets of your performances, helpful industry advice, or behind-the-scenes content to build genuine interest.
Neighbourly is also a great community platform where thoughtful posts get noticed and discussed.
3. Build a Simple, Mobile-Friendly Website
Your website is your digital stage. Showcase your talents, upcoming shows, testimonials, and contact details so clients can book you with confidence.
Wix and Google Sites are great for building affordable, mobile-ready sites tailored to Kiwi users.
Including videos or audio clips helps prospects get a feel for your style and skill.
4. List Yourself on Yada and Other NZ Platforms
Yada lets entertainers connect directly with clients without commission fees, making it a great platform to gain exposure as you start out.
Its rating and review feature helps build trust quickly and ensures you’re matched with ideal clients.
Pair Yada with listings on TradeMe and entertainment-specific directories to widen your reach.
5. Offer Special Introductory Rates
Discounted rates, package deals, or free trial performances encourage clients to give you a shot.
A Dunedin comedian offered discounted sets for local events and landed several repeat bookings this way.
Think of it as an invitation to show off your talent without the risk for your clients.
6. Network with Event Planners and Venues
Local event organisers, wedding planners, and community centres have their fingers on the pulse of upcoming gigs.
Introduce yourself with business cards, offer to perform at smaller events to build rapport, or volunteer at local festivals.
In Christchurch, stronger networking led a local band to a monthly residency at a popular café.
7. Collect and Showcase Testimonials
Ask every client or event host for feedback you can display on your website, Yada profile, or social media.
Positive reviews build social proof and help potential clients feel more comfortable booking you.
One Auckland magician found that client testimonials were crucial to growing his birthday party bookings.
8. Share Behind-the-Scenes Content Regularly
Post photos and videos of rehearsals, gigs, or your setup process on Instagram or Facebook.
This casual, authentic content builds a connection without sounding like an ad.
Weirdly enough, fans love seeing the real work behind the scenes, which keeps you on their mind.
9. Advertise Locally via Flyers and Vehicle Branding
Flyers on community noticeboards, local cafes, and libraries reach audiences less active online.
Car magnets or branded clothing offer subtle mobile adverts when you’re out and about.
In smaller towns like Timaru, such grassroots buzz helps attract community event gigs.
10. Stay Organised Using Scheduling Tools
Use apps and calendars to manage your bookings, invoices, and client communications efficiently.
Professionalism in your scheduling and follow-ups wins client trust and repeat work.
A Nelson singer credits her well-kept schedule for growing from zero to a fully booked gig calendar.