BEST PRACTICES FOR HIRING ENTERTAINMENT VENDORS

Audition them. Referrals and recommendations are a good start but you need to put your own eyes and ears on them to ensure they present well (grooming habits), sound quality (not too quiet or too loud), content appropriate, and know how to engage an audience in a positive and fun manner.

Do you work in a community with multiple levels of care? If so, book a vendor for each area during one visit as opposed to multiple visits. That way you make best use of your time and their time as well as negotiate a better hourly rate.

Negotiate annual pricing. If there is a beloved performer or lecturer, book them out for the year and negotiate an annual fee that helps save your community money while still providing engaging events for your residents.

Be bold. Performers and entertainers do not always need to be 50s music, Rat Pack, or instrumental serenades. Ask your residents for their favorite types of music, singers, and bands. You might be surprised what you learn!