At a networking event last year, I was talking publicity to a musician who complained that his own parents never attended his gigs. I asked, “Did you invite them?” and he paused and said, “I guess I thought my publicity person would notify them.”
Perhaps there was more to his story about why he didn’t directly invite his parents, but in any case, when a performer or artist wants an audience, Rule #1 is: publicity begins at home. You must tell your family and close friends about your events. People like to be invited and want to know their presence is wanted. In the case of older people, who may not use email or the internet, direct invitations are best. You can also print a calendar of your upcoming performances and post them right on Mom and Pop’s refrigerator.
If you want your publicity agent to notify your family and close friends, provide a list of names, email addresses, phone numbers and other contact information so the names can be added to your publicity list. A good publicity list often has categories including “VIP” or “Family” so key people are never left uninvited. Family and friends are the foundation for many things–and should be your biggest fans.
Performers who hesitate to become involved in their own publicity and marketing can still pack a performance hall, but when an important person like Mom or Dad are not in the audience, something feels amiss.
Look for more publicity tips on this blog, and if you have any questions, feel free to email me here or post a comment.
