Why Your Attitude Matters as Much as Your Act
Here’s a hard truth from the world of corporate events: a client once told me they’d never book an act again because, while the performance was great, the entertainer was impossible to work with and clearly only there for the money. Ouch.
As a magician and corporate entertainer relied on by UK and international professionals, I’ve learned this the hard way: your act might wow the room, but your attitude wins the repeat business.
If you want to be the awards show host that companies call first (and last), your performance starts long before you hit the stage — and continues long after you step off it.
If you want to know how to host a great awards show, look beyond your performance. Hosting is as much about collaboration and care as it is about charisma.
Below are five practical habits that keep event bookers happy, reduce stress on the night, and turn one-off gigs into long-term relationships.
1️⃣ Be Relentlessly Positive
Event teams juggle venues, AV, VIPs, timings, and a hundred tiny moving parts. Therefore, your energy should lighten the load, not add to it.
A calm, upbeat presence is part of the product — and it makes you memorable for all the right reasons.
2️⃣ Be Prompt With Paperwork
Fast contracts, rider details, POs, and invoices signal professionalism. No one wants to chase.
I use a manager and PA to keep us ahead of deadlines so the organiser feels supported from day one.
That’s how you create a lasting professional approach as a corporate magician, awards host, or corporate entertainer in general.
3️⃣ Insist on a Prep Call
Non-negotiable. A 15–30 minute run-through surfaces timings, names, pronunciation, sensitive topics, and potential pitfalls.
If you want to know how to host a great awards show, this is where you gauge tone, pace, and key details to make sure your performance connects perfectly with your audience.
The call protects the organiser and protects you.
4️⃣ Be Crystal Clear on Requirements
Surprises are brilliant in magic, not in logistics.
Be upfront about mic preference, stage size, power, lighting, walk-on music, and any table/stage interaction.
A transparent, concise tech and host brief is one of the easiest wins for any corporate entertainer or awards host.
5️⃣ Be Mindful and Inclusive
It’s 2025: read the room, respect the brand, and avoid material that alienates people.
When you’re booked as an awards show host, you’re representing the client as much as yourself.
Inclusive content = safer rooms = repeat bookings.
Final Thoughts
So, if you’re new to the stage and working to grow your client base – or even if you’re an experienced performer reflecting on how to host a great awards show – remember: preparation and professionalism are key.
Your job is to make the organiser look like a genius and the audience feel seen.
Being outstanding on stage earns applause.
Being outstanding to work with earns rebookings, testimonials, and referrals.
That’s the difference between a one-night gig and a multi-year client.
👉 Want to level up your hosting and stagecraft? Visit my Awards Host page to see how I help organisers create engaging, unforgettable events.