Over the past year, more than 20 promoters from within the Touring Network have taken part in members’ networking meetings and workshops focussed on marketing. In particular, how to market effectively on a shoestring budget and with limited time.
The following Top 10 Tips have been devised from the notes collated during these meetings.
1. Use social media to connect with performers and other Touring Network promoters
Include the #epicstage hashtag in your social media posts to make it easy for audiences and other Touring Network promoters to find out about your events online. Read more…
2. Reach potential new audiences by listing your programme online
Your regular audience may come from your local community, but what about people visiting your area? Do they know about all the great shows you programme? Read more…
3. Convert potential new audiences into ‘bums on seats’ by selling tickets online
Once you’ve grabbed the attention of a potential new audience member online, it’s important that there are simple and efficient systems for them to then buy a ticket before they lose interest. Read more…
4. Targeted distribution of leaflets and posters
The Touring Network’s #epicstage leaflets and posters have been designed to highlight some of the events happening across the Network, and push people to visit the website to find out more. Read more…
5. Create ‘package deals’ with local businesses, and connect with tourism websites and travel companies
With so many small & medium sized enterprises in the Highlands and Islands there are plentiful sponsorship opportunities available. Read more…
6. Woo the Press
We have been working hard to achieve National press coverage for the #epicstage campaign, in a bid to boost awareness of the vibrant cultural happenings in the Highlands. Read more…
7. Incentivise audiences
Ever thought of offering those who don’t attend your events in your community free tickets to entice them along? Read more…
8. Make better use of The Touring Network brand
It’s our aim to establish The Touring Network brand as a mark of quality performances. Read more…
9. Refresh and update mailing lists
We’re all guilty of letting our mailing lists gather dust, but when did you last spring clean yours? Read more…
10. Gather feedback and audience data
Every promoter’s favourite topic! Gathering feedback from your audience can be tiresome, but it really is an important and useful thing to do, as it helps you validate your programming choices to funders and provide statistics on cultural engagement within the Highlands and Islands. Read more…
Members can access the full resource in Tourbook.