Interview with Christian Perry of Zaptix
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“ZapTix”:http://www.zaptix.com is a web-based service that helps venues and event organizers to sell tickets online. Christian graduated from the University of Chicago last June, where he started ZapTix towards the end of his junior year. He now lives in San Francisco, where he continues to lead the company, in addition to running SF Beta, the city’s largest ongoing technology mixer. |
In your words, how does Zaptix work? I see that you have an online directory of upcoming shows – do you provide other suggestions for how small performance groups can get the word out to their audience members about your service?
ZapTix makes it easy for groups to sell tickets online. They simply sign up, list their events, and spread the word through their website and mailing list. They can check their sales at any point before or after the event, and prepare accordingly.
This business seems like it would require a uniquely grassroots effort – how are you getting the word out about your service to small performance groups?
We’re growing the company one venue at a time. We spend a lot of time on the phone talking with groups, event organizers, and performing arts organizations. Eventually we hope to hire a full-time sales force to assist in outreach to more organizations.
I see that you have some experience with other online entrepreneurial activities. What is your number one piece of advice to someone hoping to start up a business online?
Be patient. Starting up a web company takes five times as long and costs five times as much as you originally expect.
Bonus: What was the best event that you have seen thanks to tickets from Zaptix?
Last year, the Summer Breeze concert in Chicago, which featured Dar Williams, Parliament, and some great local acts.
Copyright © 2007 by Sonia Aggarwal