Date: Fri, 25 May 2001 09:14:45 -0700 (PDT)
From: Mark Nilsen <starrpower2001@yahoo.com>
Subject: Solving problems
To: balloon@balloonhq.com, facepaint@email.sparklist.com

Sher had some *wonderful* points. We talked bout
overtime/working for free in the past, but is bears
repeating: if you *give* it away, it loses value. Sher
charges by the 1/2 hour. I carry "overtime
authorization" slips -- if I don't get signed
approval, and I've finished my contracted time, I
consider the gig completed.

Your reputation's foundation is:

1) The quality of your work
2) The professionalism (appearance, communications,
written agreements, promptness, etc.)
3) Giving more than is expected (this doesn't mean
extra free work, but rather better quality work,
better costuming, etc.)

Price probably doesn't even make it into the top ten,
in my opinion. I think to avoid the situation of too
many people and too few balloonist, or painters, or
whatever, include your recommendations for time and
number of performers in the *written* proposal as well
as the *written* show agreements (contract). Then,
when going for the repeat booking you have
confirmation that YOUR WERE RIGHT in your professional
analysis.

You guys are great -- I love reading from
knowledgeable pro like Laura and Sher.

Regards,

Mark Nilsen
www.starrpower.org