Spring had just arrived and it was a perfect Sunday for poking around the French Quarter with friends. After visiting a few local stores and strolling down Royal Street, we did what any group without a game plan would do… we ducked in the nearest bar for a cocktail.
We found ourselves near the Cathedral just as the Master Dragon Showcase was about to begin. It had been years since I actually sat and watched the acrobatic break dancing performance and it was just as entertaining as I’d remembered it.
Sitting among the ever growing crowd of long time fans and completely fascinated first timers, I realized something… these guys have 
themselves a sweet local business going on. Not to mention, they really seem to be enjoying themselves.
Watching the remainder of the performance with this in mind, I took note as to what it was they had done right and the unconventional biz lessons I took away are noteworthy.
1.) Keep it Consistent
As we stood in the back row, all of us broke out in chatter. How long have these guys been doing this? To be perfectly honest, I can’t remember them not being there. As far as I know, the core group members have showed up in the same spot and performed… consistently been busting it out…. for over 15 years.
2.) Keep it Authentic
Not only do they keep their show fun… they keep it real. In between flips and break dancing, they have the crowd chuckling over jokes. They keep the whole bit authentic to who they are, why they do it, and where they’re from. Easier said than done.
3.) Create an Experience
They double as their own opening act and main attraction. You won’t find these guys on break, nibbling beignets. They take advantage of the down time between performances to interact with the audience, throw out a few one liners, and keep everyone engaged. They seize this valuable time to warm up the crowd and add value to the whole experience.
4.) Close the Deal
Sure, these guys technically perform for free but after delivering such a good show they wouldn’t think of leaving money on the table. They ASK for the money and the audience is so willing to pay that they are holding cash up in the air.
I have to admit that I was not waving money in the air, and one of them snuck up behind me and attempted to “steal” my purse… we all laughed and I threw in some money. Yeah, they’re good.
These guys have got it down from beginning to end. Which of these four lessons can you improve on in your business?