Scam artists? No way! As opposed to scalpers (illegal cons who sell inferior
seats or counterfeit tickets for sky-high prices), ticket brokers own reputable
service businesses. They procure tickets for people who need them, usually
offering a wide variety of events and options.
"What we typically do is advertise to buy tickets. Enterprising people
will call us as a way to help them sell their tickets. Sometimes they sell
their tickets because they can't go, sometimes they want a profit," explains
Karl Roes, ticket broker.
Tired of busy signals? Ticket brokers save clients from endless lines and
dreaded "sold-out" shows. Both individual and corporate clients rely on brokers
to find the crucial concert, play and sports tickets they need -- even at
the last moment!
"Ticket brokers are small businesspeople that provide a service to the
public," explains ticket broker Barry Lefkowitz.
Ticket brokers are like savvy commodity traders. They evaluate the hot
events and buy a certain number of tickets from season ticket holders, individuals
and ticket offices. If the broker is right, they can sell their tickets at
a small premium. If the broker is wrong, they're stuck with stacks of useless
tickets -- and a business loss.
Don't expect a 9-to-5 job. Ticket brokers are mostly self-employed, which
means longer, more variable hours. Between ticket sales (usually by phone),
brokers must successfully market their business to companies and develop ticket
contacts. This can mean both office work and frequent meetings.
Brokers have access to the best tickets for the hottest events. So, what's
the downside? Stress. People want their tickets NOW -- and it's your job to
handle their request cheerfully. Plus, if you're self-employed, you'll experience
the normal headaches of running your own business.
Computer and people skills are a must. You'll need to organize your ticket
inventory and constantly search for new tickets and sources. Brokers must
successfully communicate over the phone and in person, enter orders and track
payments.