#Auddev chat, Thursday, October 11 at Noon ET on Twitter for arts audience development

I wanted to make sure you were all invited to the #auddev chat we will be having this Thursday:

Audiences’ Preferred Connections
Co-host Cindy Marie Jenkins, L.A.’s own Storyteller/Outreach Nerd, and I will be conducting a chat about audiences and how they prefer to connect with us. So dig up your latest surveys and let’s chat about our findings!

We mainly will be discussing the various questions we tend to ask on surveys, and what information are we finding out about our audiences.  Are these the right questions to ask?  What do we need to know?

I feel many of our surveys do not find the answers we are most in need of, which is knowing how our audiences want to connect with us.  How are they finding their information now?  What drives them to buy a ticket?  How do they want to participate?  What makes them feel engaged?  What makes them want to come back?  What are the main reasons they may not come back?

It’s time to go beyond the general demographics and get to know our audiences’ preferences.  So, join us as we discuss these questions!  You’re invited!

Cheers to happy and loyal audiences,

Shoshana

Shoshana Fanizza

Audience Development Specialists

http://www.buildmyaudience.com

“Never treat your audience as customers, always as partners.”
~James Stewart

Although we are not a non-profit, if you would like to support ADS to continue our work, you can donate here.

***Purchasing my book will help support ADS and our mission.***

 

Is audience development for the arts the answer?

I have noticed that when I post tweets about arts organizations that are going bankrupt, I always tag it #auddev needed.  I know some people are questioning this and feel it better to attribute the downfall of these organizations to simply bad management.  Why would I continue to shout out about audience development?

To me, audience development is not just a method or technique of arts management, but an entire philosophy about how to run a business today.  In an age where crowdsourcing and social media are popular, the days of us dictating art are no longer valid.  Our business models of producing, marketing and fundraising without thoughts of our audiences are unraveling.  It is not wise to fall back on old business practices, and instead, it is better to be creative, engaging and involving with the people around us.

Some of us believe that the invention of the light bulb changed the arts from inclusive to entitled.  Elitism crept in to the point that the (benchmark) arts are not perceived as for everyone.  All of a sudden, the masses are not supporting the arts, and we have tiny niche markets that have developed due to this, well, development.

Audience development, true audience development, can change the way an arts business functions due to one very big reason.  Audience development is inclusive and focuses on partnering with audiences.  It is a team philosophy that not only includes everyone on your staff, all your volunteers, donors and sponsors, but it also includes your audiences.  This means that everyone will be on the same page working to support your business.

For producing and marketing, this is far different than simply placing an ad that professes (from your spinning marketing team) that your show is “something for everyone!” “spectacular!” “other marketing byte here!”  Instead, when partnering with your audiences, you can incorporate their perspective beforehand instead of attempting to sell something that they might not enjoy in ways that will be ignored.  A flop from the start is rather expensive to work with.  Wouldn’t it be better to produce something that has more promise?

In regard to fundraising, your audiences will help you to raise the money since they are a part of your team.  Your board members and staff will now have added energy to keep them going too. Everyone that is a part of your team will be helping to raise money for your business.  This team mentality for fundraising makes more sense than the “we are great, give us money,” shouted by a few people, views of old.  Plus, with all the people power combined, you can brainstorm new ways of asking for money.  Let’s face it, annual campaign letters have become trite and disposable.  You need to turn some heads and inspire some hearts!

I do hear one concern which I will quickly address. I am not saying that the audiences are now in charge.  You still have artistic license and the ability to create your own strategic plans.  The difference is, you will no longer be creating in the dark after knowing your audiences.  With this philosophy, you will be able to take more risks and produce new work that will have more of a chance of being successful. Your programming, marketing and fundraising can become fresh again.

If you are squeamish about this new way of producing art, and you rather be the sole creator without any feedback, perhaps use audience development to build the right audiences that will enjoy your art – find the best audiences for you!  Please do use audience development for your marketing and fundraising though in any case since you still need a team for support.

So, is audience development the answer? It does sound like audience development can promise the moon and the stars, and in a sense, it can.  With hard work and determination to build relationships and build your team of community support, I see a brighter future for the arts despite the light bulb.

Cheers to happy and loyal audiences,
Shoshana

Shoshana Fanizza

Audience Development Specialists

http://www.buildmyaudience.com

“Never treat your audience as customers, always as partners.”
~James Stewart

Although we are not a non-profit, if you would like to support ADS to continue our work, you can donate here.

New eBook!  The How of  Audience Development for the Arts: Learn the Basics, Create Your Plan

CRM: Who are we kidding? Arts Audience Development

Today is Wednesday, and you know what this means – guest blog post day!  Today we have a post from Lisa Baxter, Founder and Director of The Experience Business. She recently wrote a post that caught my attention that I would like to share with you.  Enjoy!

**********************************************************************************

Customer Relationship Management: Pulling the wool over our own eyes

12 Apr 2012

I was chatting with the Marketing Manager of a regional producing theatre the other day. The subject of Customer Relationship Management (CRM) came up. When I asked what they were doing to develop relationships with their first-time bookers, this was the answer (I’ve captured the spirit of what was said here, not the actual words):

“When they book a ticket [an advance ticket] we contact them to say thank you and tell them about our gallery, shop, bar and restaurant facilities … and then after the show, we send them a questionnaire about their first impressions of the visit … later, we contact them about other relevant shows that are coming up.”

Now, this might sound like ‘building bridges’ from a marketer’s perspective. But, and with no disrespect intended to this rather wonderful Marketing Manager, what this CRM gem actually represents is a predatory attempt to:

a) coax ancillary spend from the customer,

b) extract information about them and,

c) second guess what they might want to see next when all that is known is they booked a particular show.

The first is up-selling thinly-veiled as friendly information giving … ‘sharing’. The second is research thinly-veiled as ‘caring’. The third is blind optimism!

Let’s not kid ourselves about how caring and sharing we are with our customers. We’re not pulling the wool over anyone’s eyes except ourselves because our canny customers will see right through it, and that’s no way to start a relationship.

I think the root of the problem might be that arts marketers have been hardwired to ‘extract’ rather than ‘give’, to ‘sell’ rather than ‘connect’, and measure success in terms of short-term gains rather than long-term, genuine relationship building.

Does this resonate with you?

I’m going to write further about this in subsequent blogs, but here are some alternative suggestions to the insincere sharing and caring that passes for CRM in some arts organisations today:

GRATITUDE: Thank first-time bookers promptly. Tell them you’ll provide more information on how to get there nearer the time. Provide a contact in case their plans change or they need further information. That’s all.

HELPFULNESS & EMPATHY: Nearer the time of the show, when they are in planning mode, acknowledge the challenges of their first visit by providing useful ‘insider information’ on how to make their journey easier, timely, safer, cheaper.

INFORM: Where possible, provide interesting snippets of information on rehearsals, reviews etc to build expectation and excitement.

DELIGHT: Find ways of making their first ever visit really special. Exceed their expectations by, for example, offering a voucher for a free drink and/or programme. Install a Welcome Table FOH for first time bookers where they can meet a friendly face and be oriented around the building. Chat with them and make them feel at home. Share your passion. Show genuine interest: find out how their journey went, why they came etc.

CONNECT and VALUE: Invite them to take their first steps into ‘friendship’ by subscribing to a mailing list based on their preferences (not your assumptions). Seek permission to include them in customer research … because their views are important to you. Gift first-time bookers with a discount voucher for a subsequent ticket purchase … because you’d love them to come back.

Just some initial thoughts … I’m sure there are lots of other, better ideas and practices out there.

In my mind’s eye, I can see some of you throwing your hands up in horror at the additional work this will entail – for no measurable, immediate return …. but the returns will come. Given that customer retention beats customer acquisition hands down in the economic arena, it makes sense to invest in retention as assiduously as we seem to churn out sales messages to the faceless would-be attenders.

Now … how might you design a super welcome area that gives your first-timers a symbolic hug when they cross the threshold into your world? [:O)]

Lisa Baxter is the Founder and Director of The Experience Business. A trainer and author she is frequently invited to talk about her approach to Qualitative Research, Experience Design and Creative Thinking both in the UK and abroad.

A Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA), Lisa is known as an inspiring and creative thinker who likes to take her clients on a voyage of discovery. Her aim is to help arts and cultural organisations re-imagine their offer, think smarter, plan more robustly and deliver excellence. At the centre of everything she does is the beating heart of the audience. Lisa has worked with organisations large and small to connect them with their audiences in a way that generates both business and social value.

An elected Associate Member of the Market Research Society (MRS), Lisa follows their rigorous Code of Conduct to ensure the highest ethical and professional standards. She is also a member of the Association of Qualitative Research (AQR), the Arts Marketing Association (AMA), Audiences Europe and the Customer Experience Professionals Association.

**********************************************************************************

Cheers to happy and loyal audiences,
Shoshana

Shoshana Fanizza

Audience Development Specialists

http://www.buildmyaudience.com

“Never treat your audience as customers, always as partners.”
~James Stewart

Although we are not a non-profit, if you would like to support ADS to continue our work, you can donate here.

New eBook!  The How of  Audience Development for the Arts: Learn the Basics, Create Your Plan

Audience development for the arts – #Auddev chat 3/23 – Professional/Amateur audience perceptions

For our Monday Moment, take a moment to look at the #auddev chat we had on Friday, 3/23.  We were having a discussion about professional/amateur audience perceptions.  Do audiences perceive the differences?  Are they willing to pay more for “professional?”  How do we define “professional” vs. “amateur” anyway?  Why are some amateur companies funded as well as professional groups?  If “professional” means being paid, how do we factor in “guest artists” into the equation?  There were other questions and issues that came up as well.  One of the questions that didn’t come up is why are some “amateur” groups doing better than “professional” groups in terms of audience and funding? and Why are they considered in the same pool for various grants?  Should they be separately funded?  They are all “non-profits” despite “professional” or “amateur.”

What is your stance on these issues?  Please feel free to comment in the reply box below!

From User	Tweet
AudienceDevSpec	Welcome to #auddev chat! Today I am here with @maricarjagger events organisation and marketing professional out of Portsmouth, UK.
AudienceDevSpec	Hi @maricarjagger #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	Please use the hashtag #auddev to chat with us.
RachealMc	MT @audiencedevspec: Welcome to #auddev chat! I’m here with @maricarjagger events organisation & marketing profess. out of Portsmouth, UK.
AudienceDevSpec	The main question is: Do people differentiate going to professional vs amateur performances? #auddev
RachealMc	RT @audiencedevspec: Please use the hashtag #auddev to chat with us.
AudienceDevSpec	RT @maricarjagger: Yes. The question is whether we should differentiate between amateur and professional events through pricing. #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@maricarjagger So, meaning that the price of professional should reflect a higher price? #auddev
RachealMc	RT @audiencedevspec: The main question is: Do people differentiate going to professional vs amateur performances? #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	Right now I think there is all sorts of murky blur lines happening between “professional” and “amateur”. #auddev
THEATREtc	RT @RachealMc: RT @audiencedevspec: The main question is: Do people differentiate going to professional vs amateur performances? #auddev
RachealMc	@audiencedevspec That’s recently come up here in Toronto with a vengeance. #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@RachealMc Can you give me an example? #auddev
RachealMc	@audiencedevspec Our Actor’s Assn attempted a protest of one of our largest production companies over bringing in a non-union tour #auddev
Silagh	Yes, audiences do have different perceptions between professional and amateur productions. #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@RachealMc Yes, the Union issue comes into play in this discussion. Were they charging the same ticket price too? #auddev
maricarjagger	RT @AudienceDevSpec: Please use the hashtag #auddev to chat with us.
AudienceDevSpec	What also gets blurry is who is to define who is professional and who is amateur. #auddev
RachealMc	@silagh they do have different perceptions, but the question is what classifies amateur vs. professional? #Auddev
JessieRelephant	RT @AudienceDevSpec: The main question is: Do people differentiate going to professional vs amateur performances? #auddev
maricarjagger	@AudienceDevSpec @RachealMc I didn’t event think of the Union as part of the equation! Interesting #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	There are companies that say they are professional, but the quality may not be. Will the audiences know the difference? #auddev
Silagh	Some audiences expect lots of parents with video cameras at amateur performances. Even if not kids in show. #auddev
RachealMc	@audiencedevspec In the US being non-union does not automatically mean amateur, but it does here and the stigma’s huge. #auddev
RachealMc	Absolutely. RT @maricarjagger: @AudienceDevSpec Should we price a professional show more than an amateur show? #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@RachealMc Wow, so in Canada there actually is a standard based on “Union”? #auddev
RachealMc	@audiencedevspec 100%. #auddev
maricarjagger	@AudienceDevSpec @RachealMc We were discussing recently whether a ‘professional musician’ necessarily one who has a degree in music #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@RachealMc The lines completely blur in the US. I have been to amateur performances in one city that are professional in others #auddev
RachealMc	@audiencedevspec Yes, they were charging a comparable ticket price. #auddev
RachealMc	@audiencedevspec It becomes trickier because it was originally a US union tour & got downgraded before it arrived here. #Auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@RachealMc How does one get into the Union then? Are there quality standards or just a fee to pay? #auddev
RachealMc	@maricarjagger @AudienceDevSpec @RachealMc some of the most gifted & skilled musicians I know don’t. #auddev
maricarjagger	@AudienceDevSpec @RachealMc I suppose there lies the difficulty with pricing! #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	Will an audience member choose a higher price ticket for the perceived extra quality? #auddev
RachealMc	@audiencedevspec When I lived in Miami it was like that, same for my experience in Houston. #Auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@maricarjagger @RachealMc I have seen the same pricing for amateur/professional. #auddev
RachealMc	Great question. RT @audiencedevspec: Will an audience member choose a higher price ticket for the perceived extra quality? #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	This also relates to grants and other funding as well. #auddev
clydefitch	Pivots on what “extra quality” is, no? MT @audiencedevspec: Will audiences choose higher price tickets for perceived extra quality? #auddev
RachealMc	@audiencedevspec It’s much easier to get into CAEA than AEA. I got in with a letter. Many ADs won’t even look at a non Eq resume. #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@clydefitch So defining quality is an issue as well. #auddev
RRCreative	RT @AudienceDevSpec: Will an audience member choose a higher price ticket for the perceived extra quality? #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@RachealMc Union is a matter of having a company claim they are professional? #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	I do feel a professional company has the choice of pricing higher than their local amateur company. We pay more in other industries. #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	It gets tricky when amateur companies price on the higher side, then the professional company may be pricing too high for audience. #auddev
maricarjagger	RT @AudienceDevSpec: Will an audience member choose a higher price ticket for the perceived extra quality? #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	I know that professional companies that I consider professional get frustrated when amateurs call themselves professional. #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	RT @maricarjagger: A concert by a world renowned chamber group £15 & last week a local piano teacher charges £15 for her concert. #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@maricarjagger Was the chamber group upset by this? #auddev
maricarjagger	A concert by a world renowned chamber group is £15 here and last week a local piano teacher charges £15 for her concert. #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	Some Unions require an audition to get in, but some are fee based from what I am seeing/hearing. #auddev
maricarjagger	@AudienceDevSpec As a promoter, I was! We were careful to make sure the prices are affordable, but what is affordable? #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@maricarjagger Most reports point out that $25 or under is “affordable”. People will pay more for what they want. #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	What is also interesting is sometimes the amateur groups get more of an audience than the professional ones. #auddev
RachealMc	MT @maricarjagger: @AudienceDevSpec …We were careful to make sure the prices are affordable, but what is affordable? #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@clydefitch An amateur group can have a star show up too. #auddev
clydefitch	@audiencedevspec Also, wouldn’t you agree “extra value” varies (or differs) by genre, setting, time of year, magnitude? #auddev
maricarjagger	@AudienceDevSpec That begs the question whether less people will want it if the event is more expensive? #auddev
RachealMc	@audiencedevspec @maricarjagger That is a key question. #auddev
RachealMc	@maricarjagger @AudienceDevSpec I’ve worked with companies where the gross over spending & wastage is sickening. #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@maricarjagger That is a major question to consider. People will spend money on what they value. #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	I think it is about asking your audience for their perceptions before you price. What is worth it to them? #auddev
RachealMc	@maricarjagger @AudienceDevSpec The costs are then passed on to the audience & they wonder why people complain of high prices. #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@RachealMc @maricarjagger So some professional companies don’t have to price as high if not wasteful. Good point! #auddev
maricarjagger	@AudienceDevSpec I’m sure they will value something they know well and that means ‘touring’ artists cannot win #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@maricarjagger Great point, which is why #auddev is so important so they get to know!
maricarjagger	In the case of the local pianist I do realise there’s an element of ‘who you know’ determining attendance. #auddev
RachealMc	@audiencedevspec @RachealMc @maricarjagger I think we all need to be realistic about the economy & spending patterns. #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	So the audience needs to perceive as valuable to them and see the value in the extra cost of the ticket. #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	I do wish there were more standards for “professional” “amateur”. Being subjective, it may never happen. #auddev
maricarjagger	@AudienceDevSpec Are we saying that cultural offering need some longevity to afford time for audience development? #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@maricarjagger I’m not sure I completely understand your question. #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	Join us for #auddev chat!
maricarjagger	@AudienceDevSpec Audience development needs time, right? #auddev
dloehr	@AudienceDevSpec The reason my theatre co. uses “professional” is simply to distinguish between hobby & vocation. We also tour. #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@melissaimpact Interesting, so now we have more labels in the mix. LOL! #auddev
RachealMc	RT @audiencedevspec: I do wish there were more standards for “professional” “amateur”. Being subjective, it may never happen. #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@dloehr Do we have a list to define professional vs. amateur though. Couldn’t an amateur company tour. If they get a little pay…#auddev
melissaimpact	@AudienceDevSpec While not a fan of over-labeling, I think this one fills a definite need & eliminates some confusion. #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	I see some professional companies say they are community oriented, which also gets a little tricky. #auddev
maricarjagger	@AudienceDevSpec @dloehr So your definition is if this is your job (not hobby) then you are a professional? #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@melissaimpact Semi-pro is a label in the music world that is similar. #auddev
dloehr	@AudienceDevSpec We tour outside of the region, though. Our community group is largely shop owners, people with day jobs… #auddev
melissaimpact	@AudienceDevSpec The trickiness lies in the polyvalence of the word “community,” here used in a diff way than “community thtr” #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@maricarjagger @dloehr Right now, people piece together their income, so if they are paid, could be one of their jobs. #auddev
dloehr	@AudienceDevSpec …who can’t afford to take the time away from those jobs. #auddev
RachealMc	RT @dloehr: @AudienceDevSpec The reason my theatre co. uses “professional” is simply to distinguish between hobby & vocation… #auddev
melissaimpact	@dloehr @AudienceDevSpec Other issue is that many working at small thtrs of our own for no/low pay are pros working at larger thtrs #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	MT @clydefitch: Often I feel amateur vs. professional = issue for professionals, not amateurs. #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@clydefitch Really great point! #auddev
dloehr	@AudienceDevSpec But we try to work with them whenever possible; there’s no class warfare here, just different goals. #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@dloehr I know professionals that can’t afford it either. LOL! #auddev
melissaimpact	@dloehr @AudienceDevSpec “Amateur” and “professional” are inaccurate when tied only to pay grade in the arts #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	Here’s a monkey wrench, a professional could (and does sometimes) work for an “amateur” company. #auddev
dloehr	@AudienceDevSpec @maricarjagger I’m only talking about my town’s community group in terms of touring, btw. #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@clydefitch You can use the #auddev hashtag. You have great points for everyone!
dloehr	@melissaimpact @AudienceDevSpec Right. #auddev
maricarjagger	@AudienceDevSpec @clydefitch It’s money and income, it’s close to everyone’s heart! #auddev
RachealMc	RT @melissaimpact: @dloehr @AudienceDevSpec “Amateur” and “professional” are inaccurate when tied only to pay grade in the arts #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	RT @clydefitch Also, what defines amateur/professional? Most professional actors don’t live off their work but never ID as amateur. #auddev
maricarjagger	@AudienceDevSpec @clydefitch If you trained for years and pay lots of money for college, do you want to earn less that the hobbyist? #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	There are some groups in my town that claim to be pro, but quality wise, they really are not in MHO. #auddev
dloehr	@melissaimpact @AudienceDevSpec Tho I didn’t–and don’t–use the term “amateur.” #auddev
maricarjagger	@AudienceDevSpec I this case I have no quibble with them if they charge less for tix #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	I think it is some of our perception that amateur are “stealing away” from professional that is the basis. Am I right? #auddev
melissaimpact	@AudienceDevSpec Not sure you can tie “professional” to quality-All it covers is whether this is your career as opposed to a hobby #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@maricarjagger We would need to first establish who is pro and am and then figure out pricing as an industry. #auddev
RachealMc	@audiencedevspec as “Guest Artists” I would say almost all performers have done it here. #auddev
clydefitch	@maricarjagger @AudienceDevSpec Obviously not. I’m not celebrating the amateur vs. professional divide, I’m acknowledging it exists. #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@melissaimpact However, there are “amateurs” that can produce professional work. #auddev
melissaimpact	@dloehr @AudienceDevSpec Me neither–I think most thtr pros do not. It’s “professional,” “professionally-oriented,” and “community” #auddev
RachealMc	@maricarjagger @AudienceDevSpec @clydefitch When I interviewed Brian Dennehy, he said theatre school was… #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@melissaimpact I have performed in some “community” groups that were as good if not better than “professional” #auddev
maricarjagger	@AudienceDevSpec and that is difficult to establish and also regulate #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@melissaimpact Don’t they deserve to charge more then? #auddev
dloehr	@melissaimpact @AudienceDevSpec Yup. #auddev
RachealMc	@maricarjagger @AudienceDevSpec @clydefitch … the absolute worst thing an actor could do. #Auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@melissaimpact Oh I agree about the label, but they could charge more because they are awesome! ;O) #auddev
maricarjagger	@RachealMc @AudienceDevSpec @clydefitch In a sense you’re right, going to school doesn’t prove you have talents…#auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@melissaimpact We were talking about ticket pricing in all this as well though. #auddev
melissaimpact	@AudienceDevSpec Pricing isn’t just abt quality or value–often we price low b/c we’re trying to remain accessible. #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@RachealMc So the price of that “guest artist” ticket for the amateur group would go up. #auddev
melissaimpact	@AudienceDevSpec Pricing is about accessibility more than quality for most of us, I think #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	RT @melissaimpact: @AudienceDevSpec Pricing is about accessibility more than quality for most of us, I think #auddev
melissaimpact	@AudienceDevSpec Big pro thtrs make a minority of income as earned, majority as contributed #auddev
RaymondMcNeel	@clydefitch @AudienceDevSpec Per the Latin, an amateur does something for “the love”. (Oh, and Charlie Sheen is a professional.) #auddev
RachealMc	@audiencedevspec generally, the prices would be the same. The company would budget for the extra costs. #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@maricarjagger @melissaimpact So true! But then, this could make the ticket price equal to the amateur price. #auddev
maricarjagger	@melissaimpact @AudienceDevSpec Our prof concerts are accessible by ticket price, but not covering the full cost of the musicians #auddev
melissaimpact	@AudienceDevSpec @maricarjagger Pricing more abt marketing than abt income for nonprofit thtrs–majority of their $ is contributed #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@clydefitch @rachealmc @maricarjagger Plus, amateur companies can be non-profit too. #auddev
melissaimpact	@maricarjagger @AudienceDevSpec That’s the case for almost every 501c3 arts org in the country. High price isn’t a marker of quality #auddev
melissaimpact	@maricarjagger @AudienceDevSpec Low price isn’t marker of amateur. Big co.s use a plethora of price pts, some very low for outreach #auddev
RachealMc	@audiencedevspec @clydefitch @maricarjagger As can professional companies up here. #auddev
melissaimpact	@AudienceDevSpec @maricarjagger Big LORTs use lprice pts equal to smaller co.s as part of various outreach efforts all the time #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@melissaimpact @maricarjagger So if the price isn’t an indication, which we have established, will the audience get it? LOL! #auddev
melissaimpact	@AudienceDevSpec @maricarjagger Will they get what? #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@melissaimpact @maricarjagger The price is the same for both pro and ama. So, will they understand who is who? #auddev
clydefitch	@rachealmc @AudienceDevSpec @maricarjagger Curiously, it’s theatre that forever thrashes these issues. Er, amateur folk art, anyone? #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@melissaimpact @maricarjagger We may not see price as a distinguishing value, but our audiences might. #auddev
melissaimpact	@AudienceDevSpec @maricarjagger I think that’s true to a certain extent, depending on the marketing & culture of the producing org #auddev
RachealMc	RT @audiencedevspec: @melissaimpact @maricarjagger We may not see price as a distinguishing value, but our audiences might. #auddev
melissaimpact	@AudienceDevSpec @maricarjagger Big co.s offer luxury exp at high price pt- better seats, etc– outreach at lower price pts. I think #auddev
Becca_E_Smith	@RaymondMcNeel @clydefitch @AudienceDevSpec love that, but what abt pros? Is a pro in it for the $ or just some1 who gets paid? #auddev
melissaimpact	@AudienceDevSpec @maricarjagger the marketing of the experience is key. Are you there for a luxury exp? Or are you there to #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@Becca_E_Smith @RaymondMcNeel @clydefitch That’s a new kettle of fish there! #auddev
maricarjagger	@AudienceDevSpec @clydefitch @rachealmc Ego aside I think the important issue here is whether a pro can compete in the marketplace #auddev
clydefitch	@audiencedevspec @RachealMc @maricarjagger No more than boiling complex, nuanced socioeconomic trends to 140-word tweets. #auddev
RachealMc	@audiencedevspec @clydefitch @maricarjagger @clydefitch I think ego plays in any industry. #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	@maricarjagger I think you just rang the ding, ding, ding bell with that one! #auddev
melissaimpact	@AudienceDevSpec @maricarjagger see something cool you can share w/friends? The same big co can offer varying experiences #auddev
clydefitch	@audiencedevspec @RachealMc @maricarjagger More seriously, for some it’s totally tied to ego. Others don’t fret about labels. #auddev
melissaimpact	@AudienceDevSpec @maricarjagger A GREAT example of this kind of varied experience/varied price point is @berkeleyrep #auddev
melissaimpact	@AudienceDevSpec @maricarjagger This convo is so interesting, but I have to go teach! Loathe to leave you brilliant ppl. Thank you! #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	I think @clydefitch is right. All labels aside, it is going to come down to what is great & what is good. #auddev
clydefitch	@becca_e_smith @RaymondMcNeel @AudienceDevSpec I don’t think pro = monolithic mindset. Tho most people don’t turn down $, generally. #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	It’s been a quick, intense and interesting hour at #auddev chat.
AudienceDevSpec	Thank you to: @clydefitch @melissaimpact @RachealMc @maricarjagger @Becca_E_Smith @RaymondMcNeel @dloehr for stopping by! #auddev
maricarjagger	@melissaimpact We can reconvene the conversation another time with @AudienceDevSpec #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	Feel free to keep chatting at #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	I will have a transcript of this conversation on my blog Monday morning. #auddev
maricarjagger	@AudienceDevSpec @clydefitch @melissaimpact @RachealMc @Becca_E_Smith @RaymondMcNeel @dloehr Thank you all for the eye-opener on #auddev
maricarjagger	@AudienceDevSpec Thanks for hosting! #auddev
Becca_E_Smith	@AudienceDevSpec thanks for hosting! #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	We know that professional and amateur are clearly challenging to define. Price is not the indicative factor either. #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	What will ring true is not the labels, but the quality of the work. Everything else is merely technicality in MHO. #auddev ;O)
RachealMc	@audiencedevspec @clydefitch @melissaimpact @RachealMc @maricarjagger @Becca_E_Smith @RaymondMcNeel @dloehr Thank you all! #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	Whew! That was a fantastic conversation. We now return to our normal #auddev hashtag.
AudienceDevSpec	.@maricarjagger Thank you for the topic! #auddev
AudienceDevSpec	If you have a topic for #auddev chat, please contact me.
clydefitch	Thanks to: @AudienceDevSpec @melissaimpact @RachealMc @maricarjagger @Becca_E_Smith @RaymondMcNeel #auddev #FF
maricarjagger	@AudienceDevSpec Fascinating subject and I look forward to more #auddev sessions

Cheers to happy and loyal audiences,
Shoshana

Shoshana Fanizza

Audience Development Specialists

http://www.buildmyaudience.com

“Never treat your audience as customers, always as partners.”
~James Stewart

Although we are not a non-profit, if you would like to support ADS to continue our work, you can donate here.

New eBook!  The How of  Audience Development for the Arts: Learn the Basics, Create Your Plan

50 Winning Tweets from the 2011 NAMPC (many about audience development)

There are still some tweets and such floating around after the National Arts Marketing Project Conference – Winning Audiences.  Today I saw another tweet about the 50 Winning Tweets from the 2011 NAMPC.  I not only enjoyed the collection of tweets, but the format via Issuu, a free online publication program, is worth the mention too.

Enjoy!

Click Here to view what I am talking about!

Cheers to happy and loyal audiences,
Shoshana

Shoshana Fanizza

Audience Development Specialists

http://www.buildmyaudience.com

The Quarterly E-Newsletter is scheduled to go out in two weeks!  Sign-up for ADS’ E-Mazing Audience Development newsletter soon.

“Never treat your audience as customers, always as partners.”
~James Stewart

#NAMPC National Arts Marketing Project Conference – Winning Audiences – Final Day

After practically no sleep, I was still excited about the last day.  This was the day I was scheduled to present!

8:45 Engaging Audiences through Collaboration and Innovation

I had a great team to work with.  Our moderator was Kory Kelly, Director of Marketing & Communications at Actors Theatre of Louisville.  Also presenting with me were Sam Read, Deputy director of Theatre Puget Sound in Seattle, Washington and Greg Fiedler, President and CEO of the Greater Flint Arts Council in Flint, Michigan.  We decided to tag team our presentations so one would lead into another.

I started off the morning of our Engage Audiences through Collaboration and Innovation with an overall look at the variety of collaborations you can achieve.  Each type of collaboration had a case study story to give an example – the case study pointed out how it engages with your audience.  This presentation was from the view point of one organization working with many other arts and community organizations.  This was a milestone presentation for me too since I vowed to never do another “PowerPoint” presentation ever again.  You can hold me to it!

My audience was a little sleepy during the beginning of my presentation, but I could see them waking up in the middle.  8:45 am?  Much too early, right?

Sam Read took the ball and presented Arts Crush.  This festival is full of creative ideas on how to get the different disciplines of the arts working together and working with the community.  Innovative programming, venues, and audience development can result when a community gets together to co-create an arts festival.  His presentation was exciting and the theme of collaboration and innovation was demonstrated perfectly.  One of my favorite quotes – Move beyond the butt!

Greg Fiedler had a video presentation that spoke about the Parade of Festivals that his Arts Council is responsible for.  The point of the presentation was to not only show how different and interesting festivals can work together to build audience, but also how the arts are changing the perception that surrounds Flint, Michigan.  Unfortunately, almost everyone raised their hands (before the video) when asked if they heard something negative about Flint.  Fortunately, everyone raised their hands when asked if the video gave them a more positive perception of Flint.  The arts are making a difference in Flint, and through collaboration (and innovation), the difference is noticed!

10:45 Closing Plenary with Sam Horn

This was an interesting move since this talk tied together all the elements of the conference – marketing, development, audience development.  We all seemed a bit brain dead and Sam Horn was speaking in codes, or rather acronyms.  The messages of her talk were extremely valuable. Some of her main points are as follows. When relating to people – don’t just tell them what you do – tell them an example of what you are doing.  Tell stories instead of relying completely on facts and figures.  Get them to raise their eyebrows by asking “Did You Know” questions and supply them with some of the most interesting details about your organization.  Lastly, relate your message to who you are speaking to.  Instead of a typical elevator speech that states your mission, which is the same for everyone, first find out who they are and then give them something to relate to about your organization. Even though I was dog tired and ready for lunch, I got the messages and agree wholeheartedly.

My Final Tweets

Lunch

My last little session of hanging with some great people.  A group of us went to hotel sports bar and grill before we left in our cars, taxis and eventually our airplanes toward home.  It was a fantastic ending to the conference – down time with folks that understand you.

Overall Impression

I have to say that all in all, NAMPC was an amazing experience.  The people I met, the presentations, the building of relationships – all factors were well worth it.  I will also say that I am proud of myself for presenting in front of my peers (which can make you a Nervous Nelly).  I am also proud of all of us that attended (well most of us) for leaving our egos at the door and being able to share our good ideas with each other.

I look forward to keeping in touch with the many people I was honored to become associated with during the conference.  If asked again to be a part of this experience, of course, I would say yes!

Cheers to happy and loyal audiences,
Shoshana

Shoshana Fanizza

Audience Development Specialists

http://www.buildmyaudience.com

“Never treat your audience as customers, always as partners.”
~James Stewart

Audience Development and sexed-up arts marketing

I wasn’t planning on blogging today, but I read an article that had my mind buzzing:

Sexed-up arts marketing campaigns a rip off

Xenia Hanusiak, a composer, performer and music reviewer wrote this opinion.  Here are a few excerpts to discuss –

When we are promised ”the experience of a lifetime”, or ”a night of passion” and neither manifests, is there recourse? And if so, from whom do we seek it?

I have to agree with her here.  Unless the show is so amazing that we talk about it in the future, maybe we need to be more honest with our marketing.  I can say as an audience member that I have been hoodwinked more than my fair share taking a chance on these “experiences of a lifetime” hype and instead getting a mediocre production.  These performances are entertaining to pass the time, but they aren’t necessarily full of passion.  The arts need to be upfront about the type of experience they are sharing.  Not all performances and art are going to be mind-blowing, but that is okay.  The art is still worth sharing, but perhaps we need to package it for what it is instead of using language that oversells and deceives.  I’m guessing the problem is that every artist thinks their offering is the “greatest” or the “most spectacular” art that is being offered.  Perhaps we can use our audiences to get some honest feedback before we start promoting to the general public.

In the arts, offering proof before making a claim is a difficult proposition. We are, after all, in the business of subjectivity – one man’s passion is another’s poison. What’s more, in contrast to the commercial market, where product launches and marketing campaigns often go hand in hand, arts marketing is prospective. It is not unusual for marketing, with images and text ranging from confronting to salacious to divine, to arrive in subscription booklets six months before the creative team even sets foot on the rehearsal stage…

So, is using scantily clad models for your opera subscription false advertising when they won’t appear on stage? Is promising ”the greatest show on earth” or ”the experience of a lifetime,” an unsubstantiated claim?

I’m curious to hear what you think about this.  I do feel we need to be a little more responsible in how we sell our offerings.  Even though we do not have an organization that regulates our marketing, this should not mean that we don’t have an obligation to sell our art in an honest light.  Think about the audiences that are getting duped.  They will feel the old bait and switch has happened to them.

Or take the practice of misrepresenting from reviews for marketing purposes. All too often, the following occurs. A review reports that the entertainment at hand has all the ingredients for a thrilling night, but the production fails. Marketers cut and paste the single word ”thrilling”, magnify it on rooftop billboards and splash the out-of-context word on full-page advertisements.

I am in total agreement here too.  Taking a review out of context is distasteful and can ruin your reputation even more than a bad review.

Many similarly pernicious marketing trends exist, but my biggest gripe is the recent trend in classical music to popularise its product like a pop experience. This, in my view has been one reason for the public’s ambiguous response and falling attendances.

The disconnection promotes a disingenuous relationship. Why not take the road of it’s ”the real thing”? It is, after all, centuries old, it will never be hip – so represent it for its authentic self and perhaps people will respond. Arts marketing that promises to make Lady Gaga out of Beethoven doesn’t just mislead through hyperbole. It disrespects artistic authenticity.

This is where I part ways with her line of thinking.  I do feel that the classical music world needs to package the experience in ways that are relevant to today’s audiences.  If Mozart were alive today, do you think he would have settled for the same old boring classical music wrapping that we have been producing for decades?  Heck no!  He would have been a creative “pop” sensation in all that he did to sell his music.  The “real thing” can be “hip again” if we showcase it the way it was originally meant to be showcased.  You see, classical music was only put in a stuffy wrapper after the elite highjacked the genre.  Before then, the classical composers of the day were the rock stars of the day and they would perform for everyone and anyone.  They were flashy in their own way.

Classical music can be exciting again. I get excited when I see Beethoven produced in a more modern fashion.  It’s still the same amazing music that it will always be, but if it is performed in a way I can stand up and cheer, which some movements deserve that type of response, I bet more diverse audiences will be able to relate to it again.  As I mentioned in the past, traditions are only traditions because “we” make them so.  Change the traditions then!

For the most part, I agree that we need to be responsible for the marketing that we put out there.  I understand that you think you need to super hype it up in your marketing language to attempt to get an audience these days.  However, there will be more harm done to our industry than good if we continue to not present our art with more honesty.  Audiences will start to take “sensational” to mean something more mediocre.  “The once in a lifetime experience” will become the “last thing I want to attend again.”

This means, there is no replacement for high quality art.  If you have something that is high quality, something buzz worthy, this is when it is completely okay to “sensationalize” your marketing, because it will be the absolute truth and nothing but the truth.

What do you think?  Please feel free to comment by leaving a reply. 

Cheers to happy and loyal audiences,
Shoshana

Shoshana Fanizza

Audience Development Specialists

http://www.buildmyaudience.com

“Never treat your audience as customers, always as partners.”
~James Stewart

Audience Development and service with care…

I have been thinking about good customer service lately.   Good customer service is one way to establish yourself among our clamoring markets.  It is also a good way to show you care about your audience.  Good customer service, service with care, is good audience development.  The following is a quick list of suggestions to add to your daily life:

1. Spell people’s names correctly – You can view the complete blog on this one here: Audience Development and the name game

2. Go the extra mile and provide all the important information needed up front (as much as you can).   If you have people asking you:

a. What is the link?

b. When is it?

c. Where is it?

d. What’s the program?

etc.

either they did not read carefully enough or you did not provide the important what, when, who, how for them in a up front, easy to use manner.  For example, I was invited to meet at someone’s office and they sent me the details on the date, yet they forgot to give me the address.  They probably assumed I would look it up online, but why not provide that information up front in the email?  If it is a patron, it is more work on the patron, and some will say “forget it!” if you don’t supply the information needed.

3. Listen to your patrons and be helpful.  I don’t know how many times I have been on the phone with a customer service agent and they give me the panned answer “sorry I can’t help you with that” only to find out by calling back later, another agent was able to help me with the same request.   The second agent listened to me and was helpful by seeking out more answers when she didn’t know how she could help, and then she was able to help.   We no longer can afford to be the “nay sayers” when it comes to servicing our patrons.  We need to listen to them and be helpful to their needs and requests.

4. Follow up.  If you helped a patron with a problem, you have the opportunity to follow up to make sure you actually did help them.  For example, I switched seats for a person that called in since they broke their leg in a car accident.  I worked on finding the best seat to make them as comfortable as possible.  Then, I called them after the concert to see if the seat worked for them.  There was only one change like this, so why not take a moment to call?  If you say you are too busy, then you are too busy to have happy and loyal patrons.

Follow up can also mean finding out how they enjoyed a concert.  Try this, select a couple of patrons each concert to personally follow up with.  In fact, everyone on your “team” can do this.  A courtesy service call can go a long way in showing you care about their thoughts and feelings regarding your events and programs.

5.  Treat,  everyone with the care they are desiring.  This means that there are some folks out there that rather not get our mailings, but rather get an email.  Or, there might be some people that never want you to call them.  If that last example had “do not call” on their profile, I would have attempted to follow up in a different manner.  Find out how they prefer to be contacted.  You will then be catering their individual wants and needs and how they would like to be cared for.

6. Set a “get back” policy and stick to it.  People are falling through the cracks because sometimes we forget to get back to them in a timely fashion. Some businesses state they will return a call within 24 hours.  Some are less or more in their choice of window.  The point is to let your patrons know what you are capable of doing for them and then do it for them.  I have heard complaints from the general public that they have called or emailed, but no one responded back.  If you think you don’t have the capacity for this, you are setting yourself up for more decreases rather than increases.  People need to feel they are being taken care of.   It’s best to adjust so you can treat them well.

7. Be sure to thank them and be grateful for your patrons.  It’s time to stop being crabby when patrons call.  I have seen some arts orgs that actually feel put out when a patron calls.  Maybe sometimes it isn’t convenient for you when they call.  The best thing you can do is to take a deep breath and remind yourself that you are there doing what you are doing because they make it possible.  Being grateful to them, thanking them, and being there for them is what service with care is all about.

There are many more ways you can service your patrons with care.  If you think of any creative ones, please do reply with a comment. 

Cheers to happy and loyal audiences,
Shoshana

Shoshana Fanizza

Audience Development Specialists

http://www.buildmyaudience.com

“Never treat your audience as customers, always as partners.”
~James Stewart

Audience Development, Groupons and other promo platforms: #auddev chat transcript for 7/28 Noon ET

Today we had another installment of #auddev chat on twitter.  We had the pleasure of having Kara Whittington, who is part of the Marketing team at the San Francisco Symphony, as our guest co-host.  Kara manages the discounts, promotions, advertising and sales, and has a great deal of experience with a variety of different online promotions platforms.

We talked about making sure to keep your target audience in mind when choosing a platform, why you would want to choose to do a promotional discount, and how you can stay in control of your offer.  Of course we discussed whether or not audiences came back after these types of offers and steps to take to make sure these efforts are good audience development.  Other considerations were brought up such as complimentary tickets and papering the house options.  All in all, I think you will see that discount promotional platforms can be another tool to use if you learn how to use them in the best way possible for your arts business.

I want to give a big thank you to, Kara, for saving an hour of her time to make this #auddev chat possible!

If you have any questions or comments, you can leave a reply. 

Cheers to happy and loyal audiences,

Shoshana

Shoshana Fanizza

Audience Development Specialists

http://www.buildmyaudience.com

*************************************************************************
#auddev chat, 7/28/11, Noon ET

@AudienceDevSpec Welcome to #auddev chat. We will be speaking with @grizzwhit Kara Whittington. Kara are you there? #auddevThu Jul 28 16:00:29 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96610990879285248 – #42
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec Today’s topic will be Groupons and other discount promotions. Do these really work for audience development or are we losing money? #auddevThu Jul 28 16:01:24 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96611221528264704 – #43
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec Kara are you there? @grizzwhit #auddevThu Jul 28 16:01:53 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96611342022230016 – #44
tweet details

@grizzwhit @AudienceDevSpec I’m here! #auddevThu Jul 28 16:02:08 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96611403544281088 – #45
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec Excellent! @grizzwhit Why don’t you introduce yourself first. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:02:31 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96611499811942400 – #46
tweet details

@grizzwhit I’m currently in marketing for the @SFSymphony and manage discounts, promotions, advertising and sales for the org. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:04:14 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96611933515550721 – #47
tweet details

@chrisrusak @grizzwhit And we think you do a fantastic job. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:04:46 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96612067464843264 – #48
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec . @grizzwhit You have been using different discount platforms. Right? Which ones? #auddevThu Jul 28 16:04:58 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96612116269764608 – #49
tweet details

@grizzwhit born and raised in a family of musicians, I had an early start into the world of music arts and culture #auddevThu Jul 28 16:05:11 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96612170418225152 – #50
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec .@grizzwhit Do you plan an instrument? #auddevThu Jul 28 16:06:04 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96612393123196929 – #51
tweet details

@grizzwhit #auddevwe’ve used what feels like dozensThu Jul 28 16:06:12 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96612426149142528 – #52
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec Play an instrument. Typing woes. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:06:27 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96612491940999168 – #53
tweet details

@grizzwhit #auddevgroupon, living social, mamapedia, tabblehopper, gilt, travelzoo,Thu Jul 28 16:07:10 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96612671524315136 – #54
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec Wow, I’m not familiar with all of these. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:07:28 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96612746472337409 – #55
tweet details

@grizzwhit @chrisrusak thanks so much! #auddevThu Jul 28 16:07:34 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96612770073673728 – #56
tweet details

@grizzwhit @AudienceDevSpec I have but not currently- singer, violin, French horn, piano #auddevThu Jul 28 16:08:11 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96612929302048768 – #57
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec . @grizzwhit Another French horn player! Back to topic, which platform do you like the best and why? #auddevThu Jul 28 16:09:00 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96613131740119040 – #58
tweet details

@aaronmandersen Audience Dev meetup 1 wk from today in Chicago! http://bit.ly/n44oUJ #theater #theatre #2amt #dance #music #auddev@audiencedevspecThu Jul 28 16:09:56 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96613366637924353 – #59
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec .@grizzwhit So which platform do you like the best and why? #auddevThu Jul 28 16:10:59 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96613631290118144 – #60
tweet details

@grizzwhit #auddev@SFSymphony we have over 230 concerts each yearThu Jul 28 16:11:19 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96613715062960128 – #61
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec Right now we are having an #auddev chat. Talking about Groupon and other formats. Questions? Stories? use #auddevhashtag.Thu Jul 28 16:12:31 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96614017262551040 – #62
tweet details

@grizzwhit with all promotions, its important i’ve found to manage real expectations. what are you doing this for, and why? #auddevThu Jul 28 16:12:47 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96614084098785280 – #63
tweet details

@grizzwhit @AudienceDevSpec @annettecoleman can you tell me more about the offer and the results? #auddevThu Jul 28 16:14:01 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96614393814581249 – #64
tweet details

@grizzwhit I prefer @Travelzoo for one major reason #auddevThu Jul 28 16:14:40 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96614559699320832 – #65
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec That is a great point. It is good to conceptualize why you are doing a promo. What are the goals? Can you take the hit $wise? #auddevThu Jul 28 16:15:10 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96614684999942144 – #66
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec Travelzoo. How does Travelzoo work? @grizzwhit Is it similar to Groupon? #auddevThu Jul 28 16:16:01 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96614897835716608 – #67
tweet details

@grizzwhit #auddevtravelzoo sends people to your own website to book- this means you easily retain the new information of those purchasing…Thu Jul 28 16:16:16 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96614962667065344 – #68
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec That is fantastic! @grizzwhit #auddev. The main gripe I have against some of these promos is not being able to retain patron info.Thu Jul 28 16:16:55 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96615123090817026 – #69
tweet details

@grizzwhit #auddevwe’ve found that these people continue to buy tickets, and 2% even have purchased subscriptions!Thu Jul 28 16:17:00 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96615143940689921 – #70
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec Do any of them complain about the higher prices after the promo? @grizzwhit #auddevThu Jul 28 16:17:38 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96615304104378368 – #71
tweet details

@grizzwhit So this is totally different than other sites like Groupon. However, if you are a nimble small org, u can work around this to get… #auddevThu Jul 28 16:18:18 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96615474120491008 – #72
tweet details

@grizzwhit …the patron data and begin tracking the success of these #auddevcampaigns. because truly that is what these are. they’re lead generatorsThu Jul 28 16:18:49 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96615601182744576 – #73
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec The other reason Groupon seems not the way to go, especially for non-profs is that you only end up with 25%. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:18:57 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96615637203419138 – #74
tweet details

@grizzwhit p.s. advance apologies to my followers- the next hour I’m on a fund #auddevaudience development chat. Lots of tweeting!Thu Jul 28 16:19:19 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96615727422910464 – #75
tweet details

@grizzwhit we haven’t experienced complaints about prices after the promo. their first exp is w/ a discount, but they experience great product #auddevThu Jul 28 16:20:02 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96615907773792256 – #76
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec My local contemp museum is using Groupon for their memberships. The membership is $75, Groupon is $35, they get $17.50? #auddevThu Jul 28 16:20:24 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96616003659776000 – #77
tweet details

@grizzwhit and then see the value and return. #auddevBut we try to keep price point low- tickets start at $15 for most concerts @sfsymphonyThu Jul 28 16:20:32 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96616037147095040 – #78
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec That is another good point. For people starting out with discounts, make sure they know ticket price ranges for normal purchase. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:21:39 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96616317339172864 – #80
tweet details

@grizzwhit A good point. Be sure to negotiate as much as possible. You can sometimes negotiate better with these rev share models. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:21:44 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96616335634735105 – #81
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec Yes, you can create your own promos without these sites. @edithwarhol #auddevThu Jul 28 16:22:41 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96616574605213696 – #82
tweet details

@grizzwhit @thechicagored Yes we’re on tessitura #auddevThu Jul 28 16:22:44 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96616590287716352 – #83
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec I was wondering what price points these patrons purchase at after the great deal? @grizzwhit #auddevThu Jul 28 16:23:39 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96616818541740032 – #84
tweet details

@grizzwhit @AudienceDevSpec Yes- but look at it as a risk worth taking if you want new ppl, or you want to spread awareness about your brand #auddevThu Jul 28 16:23:53 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96616877014528000 – #85
tweet details

@grizzwhit These sites can also be a helpful brand awareness tool. For instance, we setup a promo with LivingSocial Escapes-with only 20 tix… #auddevThu Jul 28 16:24:37 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96617062344044544 – #86
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec The premise is to get your foot in the door, but it will only work if can convert to a regular buyer. @maricarjagger #auddevThu Jul 28 16:24:45 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96617097114824704 – #87
tweet details

@grizzwhit … that included a night’s stay at a local upscale hotel, plus breakfast and drink voucher at concert. #auddevit helped us get…Thu Jul 28 16:25:14 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96617217931747331 – #88
tweet details

@grizzwhit ..our message out to a larger audience, even though we limited the number of packages people could purchase. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:25:36 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96617309942185984 – #89
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec @grizzwhit That is true. My advice would be – make sure you can write off initial loss. For smaller non-profs might be a problem. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:25:57 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96617396642643968 – #90
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec That is a great idea. Limit number of tix, but it still goes to a larger group base. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:27:00 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96617662184046592 – #91
tweet details

@triadstage @grizzwhit Wow, that’s awesome. Those have been our main worries. Along with what our subscribers will think. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:27:03 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96617673374449664 – #92
tweet details

@grizzwhit @AnnetteColeman @AudienceDevSpec #auddevI’d suggest its best to use images that will encourage purchases.Thu Jul 28 16:27:06 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96617688910143488 – #93
tweet details

@grizzwhit @AnnetteColeman @AudienceDevSpec More importantly, its misleading if ppl can’t purchase your art at discount they’re promoting #auddevThu Jul 28 16:27:30 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96617788826861569 – #94
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec @grizzwhit Can you share another platform you have had success with? #auddevThu Jul 28 16:27:48 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96617863485468674 – #95
tweet details

@grizzwhit definitely. #auddevif you have inventory, test it with these sites to see what return you can get. if it goes unsold, that’s a loss too!Thu Jul 28 16:28:22 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96618005903048704 – #96
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec Please do use the #auddevhashtag to share with everyone. :O)Thu Jul 28 16:28:50 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96618124723503105 – #97
tweet details

@triadstage @audiencedevspec The initial loss is what prevents us from doing it for our Cabaret space…only $18 tix in a 90 seat space #auddevThu Jul 28 16:29:17 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96618236111622144 – #98
tweet details

@grizzwhit another platform we used last year was Mamapedia- which was as you might guess, for moms! #auddevThu Jul 28 16:29:34 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96618308920541184 – #99
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec @AnnetteColeman must have popped off of Twitter. I’m not sure it was her artwork. Good point. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:29:37 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96618320740098048 – #100
tweet details

@grizzwhit @triadstage I’ve found most reasonable subscriber audiences will understand an orgs need to get new customers #auddevThu Jul 28 16:30:24 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96618518111461376 – #101
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec @triadstage I have often wondered if the “Free” approach would be better than a promo is some cases. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:30:39 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96618579750957056 – #102
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec Finding targeted promo options is a great idea. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:31:37 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96618824027222019 – #103
tweet details

@grizzwhit We had 3 new concerts, that were not an easy message to convey, so we used Mamapedia and sold out. Huge success #auddevThu Jul 28 16:31:48 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96618871276044288 – #104
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec @grizzwhit What were the concerts? #auddevThu Jul 28 16:32:06 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96618948040200192 – #105
tweet details

@grizzwhit We would not have otherwise sold those concerts to capacity, without leveraging a new audience through mamapedia #auddevThu Jul 28 16:32:18 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96618996249534464 – #106
tweet details

@grizzwhit so my lesson there is that where/when you have opportunity, see how these would work to your orgs benefit #auddevThu Jul 28 16:32:42 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96619097936244736 – #107
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec I think if you have empty seats to sell, why not go for a promo, but be sure to have a follow up strategy. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:32:57 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96619159131131904 – #108
tweet details

@triadstage @audiencedevspec Exactly! If you’re not getting more than a few $ then just do a special free house and get new aud that way. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:33:09 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96619209311797249 – #109
tweet details

@AnnetteColeman Sorry took a call. It was my art advertising a discount amount that they could purchase from the gallery-didn’t say purchase my art #auddevThu Jul 28 16:33:12 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96619220867092480 – #110
tweet details

@grizzwhit @AudienceDevSpec the concerts were holiday-ish, right before christmas. some orchestra and chorus members. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:33:30 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96619298876956672 – #111
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec @grizzwhit Fun concerts. I can see why they sold. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:33:55 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96619405030592512 – #112
tweet details

@SkyArtsMgmt These Group stats are interesting, altho non-arts specific. http://t.co/1CZ7UBN #auddevThu Jul 28 16:34:07 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96619452992454656 – #113
tweet details

@grizzwhit We also use goldstar- when we give tickets at will call, we have a “sign up for our e-club list” invite in the tix envelope #auddevThu Jul 28 16:34:20 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96619509389070337 – #114
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec @AnnetteColeman That could actually work against the gallery & maybe you if someone really wanted to purchase your art after seeing. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:34:43 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96619603194675200 – #115
tweet details

@triadstage @grizzwhit I would hope so! But we’ve had enough ppl comment on other orgs use of them that it makes us hesitant. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:34:43 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96619605887422464 – #116
tweet details

@grizzwhit take in those discount seekers, and use your own online channels to reach them moving forward #auddevThu Jul 28 16:34:47 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96619622673022976 – #117
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec @grizzwhit I like the fact that Goldstar is event specific too. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:35:15 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96619737374654466 – #118
tweet details

@grizzwhit @triadstage that’s understandable. have you used any yet? #auddevThu Jul 28 16:35:21 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96619763173818368 – #119
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec @triadstage The one good thing about using the promo service is extra awareness through this marketing avenue. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:36:04 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96619945269530624 – #120
tweet details

@grizzwhit #auddevits easy to make your groupon offers concert specific. you can be as broad or specific as you’d like- its your offer 🙂Thu Jul 28 16:36:08 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96619961564405760 – #121
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec @grizzwhit Have there been any platforms that did not work for you? #auddevThu Jul 28 16:36:34 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96620070545002496 – #122
tweet details

@triadstage @grizzwhit Not yet! We closed out our season very well (yay!). We start back up in Sept so we’ll see then. I’m still so skeptical #auddevThu Jul 28 16:36:41 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96620098021896193 – #123
tweet details

@grizzwhit @AudienceDevSpec truthfully, the groupon, living social, etc are effective but they put a big strain on will call and the box office #auddevThu Jul 28 16:37:17 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96620251487281152 – #124
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec @grizzwhit I can see that! #auddevThu Jul 28 16:37:40 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96620346584739840 – #125
tweet details

@SkyArtsMgmt Also some potential exclusivity and offer timing issues with Groupon pointed out in @frogloops article in addition to stats. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:37:40 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96620346861555712 – #126
tweet details

@grizzwhit So we are using these sparingly- which keeps the value high for the majority of our product imho #auddevThu Jul 28 16:37:51 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96620393573531648 – #127
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec We are finding out that one size promo platform does not fit all, and make sure to tweak to fit your needs. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:38:32 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96620567117041665 – #128
tweet details

@grizzwhit if a concert isn’t selling, its not always the case that a deep discount will help it. its always a risk #auddevThu Jul 28 16:39:06 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96620706464407552 – #129
tweet details

@triadstage @grizzwhit We’re in such a small market and our prices are so low (comparatively) that it’s really hard for me to make that jump #auddevThu Jul 28 16:39:19 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96620763163009024 – #130
tweet details

@SkyArtsMgmt Has anyone tried the org. Houseseats? Used to paper a thin house, potential audience pays subscription to receive notice of comps. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:39:24 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96620781655703552 – #131
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec @triadstage What is your normal pricing? #auddevThu Jul 28 16:39:35 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96620829814697984 – #132
tweet details

@grizzwhit @SkyArtsMgmt @frogloops thats a good point. #auddevthey want exclusive deals. now i find they ask for even more within pkg.Thu Jul 28 16:39:55 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96620913549783040 – #133
tweet details

@grizzwhit @SkyArtsMgmt @frogloops most orgs dont have bandwidth to create these special packages. i usually roll my eyes when they ask #auddevThu Jul 28 16:40:28 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96621050699329538 – #134
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec @SkyArtsMgmt I have to say I do not like the “Paper the house” mentality since it is more along the lines of “butts in seats.” #auddevThu Jul 28 16:40:39 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96621097058967553 – #135
tweet details

@grizzwhit @SkyArtsMgmt interesting. no I haven’t used it. if we paper, we give to ppl we know directly. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:40:58 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96621178034196480 – #136
tweet details

@grizzwhit @triadstage that makes sense. i’d probably do the same thing #auddevThu Jul 28 16:41:17 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96621258699051008 – #137
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec Yes! RT @grizzwhit: @SkyArtsMgmt interesting. no I haven’t used it. if we paper, we give to ppl we know directly. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:41:18 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96621262037716992 – #138
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec You might as well use your comps for special gifts to people you know or want to get more acquainted with. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:41:45 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96621373543297024 – #139
tweet details

@triadstage Apologize for the Twitter spam guys, great convo going on at #auddevabout Groupon/Living Social etc and the Arts. Come join us!Thu Jul 28 16:41:55 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96621417604456448 – #140
tweet details

@grizzwhit there are definitely times when you need a good house, & paper the house. same reason that we’re mission driven, not market driven #auddevThu Jul 28 16:42:22 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96621528854179840 – #141
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec Or, use comps for another non-profit org and be able to say you donated tickets to the underserved. Good for publicity and grants. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:42:29 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96621558155579392 – #142
tweet details

@grizzwhit community groups, students, under served ppl in your community- great papering sources. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:43:14 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96621749277437953 – #143
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec @triadstage That is a lower price point range. I can see why 25% may not be the best thing for you. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:43:26 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96621800112394241 – #144
tweet details

@SkyArtsMgmt Not fond of papering either. If giving to own customers, u are reaching the converted. W Houseseats, move beyond your own contact. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:44:13 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96621997286621184 – #145
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec Although, you could look at the $ as an advertising cost. A promo of this nature might work better than an ad. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:44:25 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96622045697290240 – #146
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec @SkyArtsMgmt Unless you offer people to use as gifts to others that haven’t come before. Now that is #auddev!Thu Jul 28 16:44:58 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96622183429836800 – #147
tweet details

@triadstage @audiencedevspec That’s why we’re torn. Would love to get brand new faces, but we’d only be receiving a few dollars per ticket. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:45:11 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96622238501048320 – #148
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec @triadstage Maybe the simple 2 for 1 would be better. You’d be getting 50% and still get new faces. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:45:50 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96622400485076993 – #149
tweet details

@grizzwhit Recently we had 4 concerts that weren’t selling… we used our own email list (ppl in our “eclub” 4 discounts) promo 2 tix for $20 #auddevThu Jul 28 16:45:58 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96622436786765824 – #150
tweet details

@SkyArtsMgmt Reaching underserved can be problematic. Takes lead time. Toronto audience have low book-ahead ratio and subscriptions declining #auddevThu Jul 28 16:46:20 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96622527018844160 – #151
tweet details

@grizzwhit We thought we’d have to use groupon to sell the rest of the seats, but we sold out using our own internal list of emails… #auddevThu Jul 28 16:46:30 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96622569284833280 – #152
tweet details

@grizzwhit …of ppl who self identified as wanting to get discount offers from us. hugely successful. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:46:51 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96622658963243008 – #153
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec MT @parkcofield: Mixed results w/ daily deals. Doesn’t work for us on ind tkts, but great when we offer a discounted membership. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:46:54 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96622671336452100 – #154
tweet details

@grizzwhit so you can use the model of groupon, but not the rev share if you build a list of ppl that want discounts from you. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:47:15 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96622760196968448 – #155
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec @parkcofield How much of a discount was it for the membership? #auddevThu Jul 28 16:47:16 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96622762864553984 – #156
tweet details

@SkyArtsMgmt Yes, that is a good idea! #auddevThu Jul 28 16:47:31 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96622824579547136 – #157
tweet details

@grizzwhit @SkyArtsMgmt definitely. so make connections before you need to activate them #auddevThu Jul 28 16:47:42 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96622871543156738 – #158
tweet details

@grizzwhit @triadstage @audiencedevspec yes- its an advertising cost #auddevThu Jul 28 16:48:09 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96622983778537472 – #159
tweet details

@triadstage @skyartsmgmt I think that’s everywhere. These days planning ahead is 24 hrs, 48 if you’re lucky. Planning a year is just unheard of #auddevThu Jul 28 16:48:40 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96623117027385344 – #160
tweet details

@grizzwhit @parkcofield @AudienceDevSpec interesting. whats the price point difference or offering? #auddevThu Jul 28 16:48:43 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96623128993738752 – #161
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec @grizzwhit @triadstage This means that on the books, the loss of money is the cost of the advertising? Want to be clear for all. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:49:46 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96623393876619264 – #162
tweet details

@SkyArtsMgmt I have reluctance to offer last-minute discounts to core audience. We have trained them to wait for discounts. I offer early bird. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:49:48 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96623398486155264 – #163
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec @SkyArtsMgmt Major debate with this. Core aud. which buys early might not mind paying full price. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:50:42 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96623627209932800 – #164
tweet details

@grizzwhit @AudienceDevSpec @triadstage could be if you need to show the loss #auddev but i’d suggest otherwise- not a loss. lead gen… #auddevThu Jul 28 16:51:03 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96623713172209664 – #165
tweet details

@grizzwhit @AudienceDevSpec @triadstage send those leads to telemarketing next! #auddevor send follow up offer to get them to come backThu Jul 28 16:51:29 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96623823184605185 – #166
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec @grizzwhit How do you post this $ on the books since it doesn’t really “cost” to use the service. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:51:44 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96623888724787200 – #167
tweet details

@SkyArtsMgmt @grizzwhit Even with excellent existing connections, response is too slow to be practical. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:51:52 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96623920349847552 – #168
tweet details

@grizzwhit @SkyArtsMgmt love that. #auddevis about training as well, so thats hugely important.Thu Jul 28 16:51:56 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96623937236119552 – #169
tweet details

@grizzwhit @SkyArtsMgmt and in papering, 50% of folks are no shows. thats a waste. use groupon model to get some rev, commitment to show up #auddevThu Jul 28 16:52:55 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96624185387909120 – #170
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec @SkyArtsMgmt Low book-ahead and subs declining is happening almost everywhere. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:52:58 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96624199115878400 – #171
tweet details

@SkyArtsMgmt True, but it is rewarding loyalty. And many miss the discount anyway. Plus it helps predict which performances will be popular #auddevThu Jul 28 16:53:16 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96624274474934272 – #172
tweet details

@grizzwhit it amazes me sometimes how getting someone to pay something (anything) they are more likely to show than if comp’d #auddevThu Jul 28 16:53:27 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96624319492390912 – #173
tweet details

@triadstage @audiencedevspec That’s what we’ve seen it as…hence the reasons for being skeptical…i don’t have many ad $$ to start with! #auddevThu Jul 28 16:54:24 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96624558332841984 – #174
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec @SkyArtsMgmt There might be non-monetary ways to reward loyalty too. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:54:30 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96624583284764672 – #175
tweet details

@SkyArtsMgmt @grizzwhit Houseseats org removes no-shows from their mailing list. Maybe not an either/or. Could be used with Groupon. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:54:40 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96624626981019648 – #176
tweet details

@grizzwhit are there any other #auddevquestions? this has been a lot of fun, but I have to run for a call at the top of the hour.Thu Jul 28 16:54:48 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96624660199899136 – #177
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec I’m almost wanting to have people have the discount early, but then giving people the option to buy at full price to support org. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:55:13 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96624762784198658 – #178
tweet details

@grizzwhit @edithwarhol @triadstage excellent. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:55:44 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96624895496163328 – #179
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec @triadstage Perhaps try the promo w/ the loss that is similar amount to ad space and don’t purchase an ad – see what happens. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:56:34 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96625103135186944 – #180
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec @triadstage That is if the ad isn’t working that well to begin with. If ad working, then don’t bother and stick with ad. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:56:56 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96625194529071104 – #181
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec @grizzwhit We have 3 min. Do you want to say some final words? #auddevThu Jul 28 16:57:35 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96625360623505408 – #182
tweet details

@SkyArtsMgmt I have found early bird discount can lead to one or more early sell-outs, leading to great buzz. Works well with min. 2 week runs. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:57:46 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96625406693744640 – #183
tweet details

@SkyArtsMgmt @AudienceDevSpec How about early bird discount with a top up donation. Customer gets tax receipt for difference. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:59:33 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96625855509442560 – #184
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec We have learned that you need to consider the target aud, the costs, the gains and losses when using a promo platform. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:59:52 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96625934324604928 – #185
tweet details

@triadstage @audiencedevspec Exactly 🙂 We’re doing fine without the extreme discounts. I’m fascinated by the whole concept. #auddevThu Jul 28 16:59:54 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96625943975702528 – #186
tweet details

@grizzwhit @AudienceDevSpec thank you for the opp to have this #auddevchat! its been fun and i’m open if others who didn’t join real time to msg meThu Jul 28 17:00:06 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96625992449273856 – #187
tweet details

@SkyArtsMgmt @AudienceDevSpec Never tried that strategy — could be interesting. #auddevThu Jul 28 17:00:06 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96625991639773184 – #188
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec You can make the promo work for you by negotiating, limiting amounts, etc. #auddevThu Jul 28 17:00:18 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96626044773203969 – #189
tweet details

@grizzwhit target your audience, use discounts when you have an opportunity, and test various to see what works best for your org #auddevThu Jul 28 17:00:36 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96626117435330560 – #190
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec Always have a way to capture patron data and to follow up, otherwise the promo will not be an #auddeveffort.Thu Jul 28 17:00:45 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96626154496208896 – #191
tweet details

@grizzwhit don’t be afraid- its ok to start small. #auddevis about trying new things after all, isnt it?Thu Jul 28 17:00:56 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96626200864239616 – #192
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec Yes #auddev is about trying new things. Think about what is not working and shift that money to #auddevefforts to try.Thu Jul 28 17:01:48 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96626421543346176 – #193
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec You have just witnessed another fun and informative #auddevchat. I hope you can join us next time. I also need guest hosts. Contact me!Thu Jul 28 17:03:02 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96626729082290176 – #194
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec Thank you to: @triadstage @SkyArtsMgmt @parkcofield @maricarjagger @edithwarhol @AnnetteColeman for participating! #auddevThu Jul 28 17:03:46 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96626915426836480 – #195
tweet details

@AudienceDevSpec If you missed out on #auddev chat, I will be posting the transcript on my blog later today.

Thu Jul 28 17:04:13 +0000 2011 – tweet id 96627028924710912 – #196
tweet details

Announcing Audience Development Media – ADS and Rosebrook Classical partner

After several conversations with David Weuste of Rosebrook Classical and seeing the work that we both have accomplished, we realized that a partnership would be a fantastic addition for both of us.

Rosebrook Classical offers services that support artists and arts organizations in setting up anything and everything involved in social and digital media.  David has the know how and can teach you or give you hands on support to get you ready to attract your new 21st Century audience.

Audience Development Specialists (ADS)  helps artists and arts organizations build a quality audience.  We help define who you are so you can find the exact audience that will fit with your art.  We teach you how to attract, obtain, and keep your audiences as well as how to get your audiences more involved to help support you.

If you add Audience Development Specialists plus Rosebrook Classical, it equals Audience Development Media.  We give you the means to create the social and digital platforms you need to reach new audiences as well as the knowledge on how to build your audiences.

If you have questions on how to set up a social media or digital media platform and then what to do to engage your new audience and attract more audiences, contact us for more information about Audience Development Media.

Cheers to happy and loyal audiences,

Shoshana

Shoshana Fanizza

Audience Development Specialists

http://www.buildmyaudience.com

“Never treat your audience as customers, always as partners.”

~James Stewart