The quote “aligning yourself with the right individuals increases your chances of becoming a successful dancehall promoter” holds truth, because not having a reliable network will result in a premature end to your career. Nevertheless, the fact it is a relatively easy career to get into isn’t the slightest indication that your journey will be a smooth ride. There is a lot of hard work involve; many sleepless nights, phone calls to be made and people to fire, but at the end of the day, when all is said and done, only those with enough drive and determination will stand the test of time. Most importantly, maintaining a good reputation will ultimately determine whether or not you see a return on your investment.
The following includes a list of suggestions on how to maintain a good reputation as a dancehall promoter.
- Maintain at least two active profile accounts on social networking websites such as Facebook and Myspace. And use them as a means to say connected with your targeted population
- Avoid participating in online bickering
- Post an open apology that expresses your regrets about any violent incident that occurred at your event without excluding yourself as one of the persons at fault
- Be selective of those you have on your promotional team, because the manner in which they present themselves may have a negative effect on the outcome of your event
- If you are unable to pay your party photographers, promotional team or DJ in a timely fashion – make it your duty to inform them of any late payments
- Never, under any circumstances use the line “no ID at the door” as a means to attract more people to your event
- Do not inflate entrance fee more than what was advertised on your promotional flyer
- If you are not 100 percent sure that a popular DJ or dancer will be able to attend your event, do not put his or her picture on your flyer as the main guest
- Always offer special incentives that includes, but not limited to reduced entrance fee and a special prize for the best dressed male or female
- Inform the individuals that are in charge of security at your event to enforce a strict no-smoking and no-fighting policy.
