You may want to pick up some of the older marketing oriented books that are out there in the magic world. My suggestion would be to check with a reputable dealer like Stevens Magic. Just email Mark and tell him you would like to take a look at some of the less expensive business & marketing books they have to offer. I'm amiss as to titles right now, but I do know you don't want (or need) to invest in the big expensive programs that are out there.
Joel Bauer's HUSTLE HUSTLE is a classic and will open your eyes to a good deal of things.
Too, your marketing strategy will depend greatly upon the kind of act you are developing and the direction you wish to move. Know however, ads in a phone book simply do not work (they are bloody expensive and rarely pay for themselves). On the other hand a sharp, concise, easy to use and understand web site will give your results... it's the business card of the 21st century.
My site offers down loads of pdf materials that give more information to the potential client and though we are still working on it, we have PowerPoint presentations and will soon be adding some flash as well as audio & video files so the casual browser can learn all they need to learn and not have to deal with all the postage, printing and clutter that used to be such a common element in show biz.
EXPERIENCE is a biggy... though you are looking at things "down the road" you will be doing yourself a tremendous favor if you found a place you could do table magic at, even if it's just for tips. This kind of situation can (and will) open doors to private parties and even corporate deals. It also allows you to build on a local reputation, a stock pile of reference letters, quotes, video footage of you at work, and of course your Resume.
DO NOT WORK FOR FREE if people ask you to do a show. You can charge a nominal sum but always get something for your time and talent. This includes non-profit situations who are always encourging young performers to come in and get some "exposure"... well, that's nice but it don't pay the bills.
As to rates of charge, a beginner such as yourself, should keep things a bit fair at first and go with the regional averages. If you're doing kiddie parties as a warm-up act to the ice cream & cake, then set your rates in around $75.00 to $125.00 at first. Once your reputation builds and you are more prepared to move into things full time, you can raise the bar. Know however, you will never get the "real" money working your home town (nor the respect).
If I travel to do a show that is more than an hour's drive from where I live I know I will see no less than $1,500.00 for that date (it's a great incentive to do the trip). If I cross state lines the rate goes up considerably, especially if it's a corporate event. If you're willing to hustle you can easily do 3-5 shows at that kind of money, each day of the week, at least 4-5 days there of. As ironic as it sounds, that's nowhere close to the "big money" some performers see (you would be surprised as to how many magic performers generate millions of dollars a year that you barerly, if ever hear of.)
I hope these insights help you a bit
