Booker

Term from Standup Comedy industry explained for recruiters

A Booker is a professional who handles scheduling and coordinating live entertainment acts, particularly in the comedy industry. They work as the bridge between venues and performers, selecting talent and arranging performances. Think of them as matchmakers who connect comedy clubs, events, or venues with the right comedians. Similar roles might be called talent coordinators or entertainment programmers. Bookers typically handle multiple aspects of show planning, from negotiating fees to creating balanced performance lineups that will attract audiences.

Examples in Resumes

Served as Booker for three major comedy clubs, scheduling 200+ shows annually

Successfully worked as Comedy Booker managing relationships with 100+ comedians

Lead Talent Booker responsible for curating weekly showcase lineups

Typical job title: "Bookers"

Also try searching for:

Talent Booker Comedy Club Booker Entertainment Booker Show Booker Venue Booker Comedy Talent Coordinator

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle difficult situations with artists or venues?

Expected Answer: Should discuss conflict resolution, contract negotiation experience, and maintaining professional relationships even in challenging situations. Should mention specific examples of problem-solving in the industry.

Q: How do you build and maintain a successful comedy lineup?

Expected Answer: Should explain audience analysis, market trends, budget management, and maintaining diverse programming while ensuring show quality and ticket sales.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What factors do you consider when matching comedians with venues?

Expected Answer: Should discuss audience demographics, venue size, comedy style compatibility, and budget considerations.

Q: How do you stay current with new talent in the comedy scene?

Expected Answer: Should mention attending shows, networking events, social media monitoring, and industry showcase attendance.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What's your process for organizing a typical show?

Expected Answer: Should describe basic scheduling, communication with performers and venues, and understanding of standard booking procedures.

Q: How do you maintain an organized booking calendar?

Expected Answer: Should explain basic scheduling tools, follow-up procedures, and methods for avoiding double-bookings.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic scheduling and calendar management
  • Communication with artists and venues
  • Understanding of standard contracts
  • Social media awareness

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Talent scouting and evaluation
  • Contract negotiation
  • Budget management
  • Event promotion basics

Senior (5+ years)

  • Strategic programming and season planning
  • Industry relationship management
  • Crisis management
  • Market trend analysis

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of standard industry contracts
  • Poor communication skills
  • Lack of experience with talent relationships
  • No understanding of audience demographics
  • Unfamiliarity with local comedy scene