BlueRose,
Well, this is the way I do it, but I'm sure there will be many variations. First, I don't have a "paper" contract. Not in the usual context. I sit with the "powers to be" and we discuss what we both want, what we both DON'T want, and what we both hope the end results will be. I know that sounds very vague, but open discussion when getting an owner or a bar manager to hire you is, IMO, a very important tool. During these discussions, you can readily identify their "persona" if you will. This is the time to find out exactly what he's willing to pay (never low ball...start high), how many nights, what time you're expected to start and end. ( some will "let" you go over..especially if the crowd is into the action....make sure you're compensated for those instances also) What is included ( drinks, food, etc. ) and what is not. Are you able to take a 10 or 15 minute break at "the half". ( make sure that's allowed....when you gotta..you gotta.) All the variables that could possibly come into play include, patrons damaging your equipment, who pays, ( them, always them) who runs the show....you or the person who hired you (always you...as far as the actual show goes..including decisions about "who" ( meaning their friends ) sings next. ) As this discussion is happening, I write down everything we have discussed and agreed to. Here's where what I do is probably a little different. I go home, type out the agreed upon "document", one with my business name and a place for signatures, one without. The person who hires me gets the no name no signature copy, I get the other. Oh...I only deal with cash...no checks or charge cards...just cash..payable when my system is set up...not at the end of the night..like most. My reasons for doing it this way are my own, but it works for me. Just remember, a "blanket contract" seems kind of "cold". The person hiring you should be able to walk away "thinking" he actually decided what was in the contract. That's why I STRONGLY recommend that discussion. Also, it's very important that you make sure you and the person you're meeting with has the time to fully discuss all the issues that may be brought to the table without distractions. There's probably other issues that won't affect the way I run my show, so, I'll leave that to the other more professional individuals who I'm sure will assist you. Good luck and just remember..always discuss.
Donny "B" 8)
BTW: I almost forget....NEVER promise any owner or manager a following week to week. The first or second time it DOESN'T happen, chance are you won't be happening either. Be honest, look him/her straight in the eye during any discussion. Conclude the meeting with a firm handshake and again, always look them in the eye. ( something you may want to watch for when they're talking to you...if they're not looking at you when they're talking, old school says they're probably not being totally upfront...again IMO)
