"How long does it take to secure my first booking?" it's a common question that often pops up when musicians join Encore.
Understanding the Booking Process
First things first, it's important to understand that the process on Encore can vary, and every musician, customer and gig is different. It's not a one-size-fits-all scenario. The time it takes to secure your first booking depends on several factors:
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Your Profile Strength: The more in-depth your profile is with lots of reviews, high-quality media, and detailed pricing information, the more appealing you'll be to potential clients. A strong profile can speed up the process.
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The quality and speediness of your responses: Musicians with fantastic and zippy responses that put the customer and their needs tend to do well on Encore.
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Gig Type and Demand: The demand for specific types of gigs can vary. Some may have more competition, while others are in high demand, making them easier to secure.
Setting Realistic Expectations
While we can't predict an exact timeframe for your first booking, we can provide some guidance:
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Patience is Key: It's not uncommon for musicians to apply for 10-30 jobs before securing their first booking. This isn't a reflection of your talent; it's just the nature of the industry.
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Quantity and Quality: The more applications you send out, the better your chances of securing a gig. Don't be discouraged if you don't hear back from the first few customers. Keep applying, and your efforts will pay off.
Tips for Success
Here are some tips to increase your chances of securing that first booking:
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Optimise Your Profile: Make sure your Encore profile is complete with high-quality media, detailed descriptions, and reviews. This makes a great first impression.
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Apply Actively: Don't hesitate to apply for multiple gigs, even on the same day. It's entirely okay to apply for more than one gig, and it can improve your chances. In the early days, it can be a bit of a numbers game.
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Communicate Clearly: Once you get in touch with potential clients, clear and prompt communication is key. Be responsive and professional.
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Learn from Feedback: Feel free to reach out to the Encore team to ask for feedback. It can help you improve and increase your chances in the future.
Learn From Others
Encore Saxophonist m-Sax secured 75+ bookings in his first 7 months on the platform.
While this is a record, there is lots to learn from him.
Read our full interview with him here.
Securing your first booking on Encore is an exciting journey. While it may take some time and effort, remember that persistence and dedication are your best allies.
Keep adding reviews + media to your profile, actively apply for gigs, and stay positive. You've got the talent, and with time, the bookings will roll in. Happy playing! 🎶
Have more questions or need further guidance? Feel free to reach out to our support team anytime at help@encoremusicians.com