I think you all know my thoughts on "negotiations". There are none. The price is fixed. I never want a bidding war between prospective clients, because I intend to give out at least 5 - 10 cards at every affair. (Hopefully more ... )

Since they all know each other (probably)- it would be bad business to quote one price to one person and another to someone else.
I'd rather loose a few jobs that don't pay the fare than work "under" my scale.

This only looses a few jobs per year and it makes it easier to keep a steady income happening. Almost all of the clients that hear me - book me. Sometimes, when the reccomendation comes from a third party ..... my prices scare them a little because they don't know what they are buying. I try to never even mention money if they have never heard me live. The next best thing is an audio demo (and I always send a signed, completed contract with it)and the least best way is to just go on the word of mouth referral. That's dangerous because your particular style may not be just what the client is expecting .... even though you may come highly recommended.

All in all - the tips are a welcome addition, but I never rely on them. It's found money ... like a Christmas present.