Thread: How would you respond to this?

I got a lead for a gig outside my usual travel radius and they are trying to negotiate a performance for 50% of the going rate.

The possible responses I can think of are:

1. Skip the gig altogether.
2. Maybe cut a bit off travel since I shouldn't run into traffic at the time they want me to perform, but not cut into my rates for performance.
3. The "option that's not an option" - undercut my own rates.

WWBD? How would you reply to this?

Personally, I would probably skip the gig all together. A fee for traveling so far is not unreasonable. Also, if you charge the going rate, not only will you be undercutting yourself, you would be undercutting other dancers.

I agree with startdancer. Just the fact that they are telling you they are willing to pay half seems offensive to me. You are charging for a professional show, and if they are not willing to appreciate that and your time, then they are not the right venue for you to perform.

It's a negotiation. Why not throw some things in to the negotiation that don't cost you anything, but are a benefit to them. Decide what is non negotiable (from your post that is money for the show, and length of time spent on the show and at the gig). It seems you would be willing to cut down cost on the travel time (from your post). What things do you feel you can offer that don't encroach on your 'non negotiables'.

Do you know why they asked you to bid? Were you someone's first choice or did they contact many dancers for bids? If someone really wanted YOU, that's a leg up.

At this point, we'd emphasize our brand (make sure the potential customer understands the variety of genres, quality, previous accolades, experience, etc) with a reminder that the gig requires four hours of travel time that has to be paid for, as well as the time spent planning the show and getting costume and make-up ready. You really need to charge a very fair (to yourself) price on long-distance gigs because of the wear-and-tear on the car. The IRS allows over 50 cents a MILE deductible, which is a good reminder of how much it really costs to operate a car. The only slack I think you have here is if they'll pick you up and bring you back:)

Stardancer and Dahabiya - I agree and my knee jerk reaction was to forget it and say that I'm not dealing with that. The girl I'm talking to is super sweet though and she's not the one balking at the price. Apparently it seems that most of their performers are volunteer but she was convincing them to pay me because I am a professional and she was lobbying for full rates.

Caroline - Yeah, I've been thinking about how to word a negotiation e-mail to her as that's been our primary method of communication.

Ruric Amari - As far as I know, I am the only dancer they contacted.

I really appreciate the insights everyone and after sleeping on it, I think I know how to reply to her and more importantly, the committee. Thanks! :)

I'm going to edit the original post too, just in case...