We have been training performers at our Mascot Boot Camps for over 17 years now. We also have identified and placed dozens of great performers in full time mascot positions around the country. With that experience Raymond Entertainment has developed a proven search method that finds the most talented and safe performers in the business. Those of you who follow my blog know that I don’t mind sharing with you valuable information that help you save time and money while you are trying to develop your own mascot program. With that in mind here are the top five ways to find great mascot performers.
1) Develop a performer profile:
The first step is to identify a list of attributes that are consistent in most great performers. Our profile that has been developed includes background and talent “hints” that help save us time when we are reviewing resumes and performing phone screens. Some of these attributes include lettering in high school sports, having acting or dance training and having the ability to sketch or draw.
2) Require performance video:
Make sure when you post your performer opportunity that you require a performance video in order to be considered. It will help you prescreen the candidates and eliminate submissions that won’t be fruitful and will waist time. These videos must be no longer than 3 minutes and do not have to be in costume.
3) Use grass roots marketing:
If you are looking for a part time performer then you won’t be able to perform a nationwide search and will need to concentrate on local performers. First bring you staff together, give them the performer profile and let them know to spread the word. Use your mascot to show up around the local area and pass out the flyers announcing that you are looking for a new “best friend”. Tell a fun story about the search and present it to the media for coverage.
4) Run an audition:
After you have pre screened the resumes, videos and gone through a phone interviews eliminate 30% of the applicants based on that review. Invite no more than 8 qualified applicants to an audition format that includes in and out of costume interviews. Make sure you have professional background checks and drug screens performed!
5) Performer training:
Once you have selected both a main performer and back make sure you have them professionally trained. This training not only will insulate you from many liability concerns but will deliver a performer who understands how to entertain and drive revenue at the same time.
A trained performer is the single most important part of a successful mascot branding program. Put the time, effort and budget towards finding and developing a great performer and you will be rewarded with 3 to 4 times in new revenue and brand! If you want to learn more about finding and developing great mascot performers make an appointment with the Mascot Doctor today. Remember it is all about MoneyMakingFun!
