P.T. Barnum, the remarkable showman and entertainer in 19th century America, once famously quipped: “The noblest art is that of making others happy.” And for Jeff Quinn, that sentiment truly fuels his calling as a magician and hypnotist.
“Being able to make someone smile, or laugh, or forget about their problems for a little while is a wonderful gift,” Quinn said. “As cliché as it may sound, the laughter from the audience means more to me than any paycheck.”
But during the pandemic of 2020, much of that laughter came to a halt as Quinn struggled (as did many small business and entrepreneurs) with the economic slowdown.
“I went from performing 400 shows per year to just over 40,” Quinn said. “I didn’t know what was going to happen and nobody had any real answers. Then, the Chamber reached out to me and offered assistance. It meant the world to me and I truly appreciated that kindness.”
Even though that time was a “low point” in Quinn’s life, this magician that built a sterling reputation for bringing joy and happiness to audiences everywhere, tapped into his own inner magic and found revenue streams elsewhere.
“I managed to pivot enough to survive that lean year. I produced a pre-recorded magic show which I sold to libraries across the country for their Summer Reading Programs.”
Now, two years later, Quinn continues to deliver ovation-worthy shows thanks to an exhaustive creative process that enables him to customize his performances.
“I try to personalize each and every show that I do. I talk to each point person in depth and determine what they want and what they don’t want. I find out names and inside jokes that I might be able to use in the show. I try to cover even the most minute problems that might arise. I think that my attention to details helps to put them at ease so that they can sit back and enjoy the show, too.”
Winning Insights from Our Winner:
Best Practice Tip for Small Business Owners
“My best advice would be to put yourself in your customer’s shoes. Understand what they want and what they expect from you. Once you identify that, do your best to exceed their expectations by a mile.”
The Value of Chamber Involvement
“I’ve been a member of the Greater Omaha Chamber for the last 20 years, and it has given my business a sense of legitimacy. A year ago, when everything started shutting down, I was devastated and scared. The Chamber reached out to me and offered assistance. This meant the world to me and really helped pick me up when I was at a low point both professionally and personally.”
Giving Back to the Community
Charitable service has been near and dear to Quinn’s heart ever since his first sleight of hand. Whether it’s dazzling children on the Pine Ridge Reservation, or performing for Methodist Hospital’s rehab unit, or supporting youth programs in North Omaha, Quinn has used his magic and entertainment skills to bring smiles to those who need it most. Back in 2020, Quinn even traveled across hemispheres to Sydney, Australia to help with the bush fire relief.
Exceptional Customer Service
“I realize that the reputation of the person who hired me is at stake. I want them to feel confident that they’ve made the right decision. I try to cover even the most minute problems that might arise. I think that my attention to details helps to put them at ease so that they can sit back and enjoy the show, too.”
Overall Operating Philosophy
“My philosophy is to be entertaining without being mean. As cliche as it may sound, the laughter, the special moments, and comments I get after the show are really priceless. Being able to make someone smile or laugh or forget about their problems for a little while is a wonderful gift.”
Many thanks to our generous sponsor!
Premier Bank is the sponsor of the Small Business of the Month award. View more information or nominate a small business online.
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