1. It is important to carry writing materials with you at all times, even if it's just a scrap of paper and a pencil. It's a cliche, but it's true, funny things really do occur out of the blue. And if not written down, they are easily forgotten.
2. One of the main rules to success in comedy, is to 'know your audience' it's also another cliche, but true nonethless. Sometimes it can be difficult to judge a crowd, but it's often a case of trial and error. Eventually, the material should be tailored for the audience.
3. Confidence is key. If an audience senses that the man or woman on stage is not confident then it will have no confidence either. A comedian needs to believe that they are funny. Half the battle is in getting the audience to feel comfortable with a comedian, and they are much more likely to feel comfortable with a confident comic.
4. A Comedian needs to have a relatively good memory, or methods to bypass a bad one. Lots of comics write little notes on the back of their hand, to prompt themselves if they dry. This is again linked to self-assurance. A comic who is confident about his or her ability to recall the material is likely to feel more relaxed.
5. It's often a good idea to expect the worst. For many comics, their first gig is a stinker. It doesn't mean that they are bad and often it can be a great part of the learning curve. It's best to remember that comedy is a very subjective thing, and what one group of people finds hilarious the next group will hate. Therefore, comics need to grow a thicker skin and try not to take the bad gigs personally.
6. It is imperative that if there is a time limit to a set, usually five minutes, that that time is adhered to. Comics who overrun their time become unpopular with other comedians on the circuit.
7. It's a good idea to seek advice from other stand up comedians. Obviously, a comedian does not want to be badgered before he or she goes on stage. But, if it is possible to approach a comedian once they have performed they may well be able to offer some interesting information and advice.
8. Comedians who let promoters down will not be invited back. Although, it is clearly a nerve-racking experience it is important not to bail out at the last minute. Word travels fast in the world of comedy and once a comic has a reputation for being unreliable they will find it difficult to get gigs.
9. As with many things in this world, it's not what you know but who you know. It's important for a comic to make contacts with other comedians, promoters and bookers. These are the people who will be able to aid a comedian's career, so it's a great idea to be on good terms with them.
10. Get out there and do it! Although it's terrifying, the only way for a comedian to gain experience and to become better is to practice. And the only real way to practice is to perform in front of a live audience of strangers.
