Stand up request: how to ask clearly and get a quick yes

Need to request a stand up—whether it’s a comedian for your event, a guest speaker, or a workplace accommodation to stand? The trick is to be short, specific, and polite. Say what you want, why you want it, and how much time or support you’ll provide. That alone makes responses faster and reduces back-and-forth.

How to write a clear stand up request

Start with the main fact in the first sentence. Mention date, time, location (or virtual link), expected audience size, and payment or honorarium. If technical needs matter—mic, stage, projector—note them. Add one line about why you picked them: a recent show, a relevant talk, or a recommendation. Close with a clear call to action: “Can you confirm by [date]?” or “Are you available?”

Keep tone friendly. If you’re messaging a performer on social media, shorter is better. For email, three short paragraphs work: request, details, next steps. Always include contact info and a window for follow-up.

Quick templates you can copy

Comedian booking (short message): Hi [Name], I’m organizing a comedy night on [date] at [venue]. We’d love a 20-minute stand up set from you for an audience of ~[size]. We offer [pay/percentage/tickets]. Are you available? Reply or call [phone] by [date].

Speaker invite (email): Hello [Name], I’m [Your Name] from [org]. We host a panel on [topic] on [date] and would be honored if you could do a 30-minute talk plus 10 minutes Q&A. Audience will be [who]. We can cover travel/honorarium of [amount]. Please let me know if you’re free or need more info.

Workplace standing request (short): Hi [Manager], I’d like to request a standing workstation for ergonomic reasons. I need space for a monitor at standing height. Happy to try a trial week; we can discuss setup and cost. Thanks—[Name].

Follow-up matters. If you don’t hear back in 3–5 days, send a polite nudge with the same key details. For paid gigs, confirm the rider and payment schedule before promoting the event. For workplace requests, attach any medical or ergonomic notes if required.

Final checklist before you send: 1) Date/time confirmed, 2) audience size and format, 3) payment or compensation stated, 4) tech and arrival details, 5) clear deadline for reply. That checklist saves time and makes the person you’re asking comfortable saying yes.

Want more help? Use the templates above and tweak them for tone and length. Clear requests get faster answers and fewer surprises on the day of the event or at work.