I'm quite familiar with where you're located (I grew up in Springfield and my step-son lives in your area presently with his family). It's a tough nut to crack and our current economy isn't helping. Quite frankly I think you'd do better working a few restaurants at night for tips but start with the Spaghetti Warehouse and Olive Gardens . . . both have a long history in using close-up guys. If they're in the area there is another company I've worked for called The Melting Pot -- a Fondu themed facility that can be quite fun to work as well.
No, these places won't make you big bucks (about $60.00 -- $100.00 a night) but they accomplish three things for you;
* Networking -- the opportunity to actually meet "the right people" tied to companies that may be hiring.
* Income -- while nominal, you'll at least have something coming in to tie you over until other things open up [NOTE: Don't expect to see much in way of "normal" work until after the election]
* Resume/Experience Building -- literally, you are doing something constructive when it comes to building on your resume as a performer and public communicator.
We do have the Holiday Shopping Season already popping up, so look into working the Obalisqu at the malls pitching & demonstrating merchandise. Check with talent agencies in Cinci, Dayton & Columbus in that they'll be looking for people to fill this kind of niche right now. They will be looking for people that look good, have a strong sense of confidence (presence) and strong speaking skills . . . which will include the ability to "dazzle them with B.S." when you don't have a solid answer for someone in the spur of the moment. Speaking with them and corresponding via Mail, eMail, SKYPE, etc. must come off very professional. . . this can include a simple on-line presence that gives your basic resume, a short bio, goal list, and related talents/skills along with a PDF download option and of course, contact details. You may want to include video but not what we usually think of, this is for a job as a pitch person & communicator so you aren't doing tricks UNLESS its shots of you doing a pitch for whatever effect. . . you can even stage scenarios in which you're pitching cookware or tools, etc. just to show variety . . . study Vinnie and the other fast talkers on Tv and you'll get the gist.
Along this course, you can check with Flea Markets in that they used to be a haven for pitch booths during this time of year and what's known as a Jam Auction.
In this kind of economy and uncertain political season you almost have to create your own work. It's out there but you really need to focus on the sort of jobs that will give you the most for the energy invested. A seasonal job as a "spokesperson" can open doors but will likewise give you time to scout out other leads for something more "fixed" and practical. Coupling the seasonal pitch work with close-up bits at the local eateries & pubs will mean long hours but it also means that you're generating some level of income vs. being completely down and out . . . you're working towards your main goal.
I hope this gives you a contrast and as such, a bit of hope when it comes to what can be done and may be out there waiting for you to snatch it up.
Best of luck!
