Table-Hopping

As a magician, if you can convince restauranteurs and bar-owners to allow you to perform in their respective places of business you will usually be asked to return.
Remember, many diners don’t wish to have their meals or conversations interrupted. Use your intuition. If a table doesn’t look like it’s “in the mood” avoid it.

Be Clear and Concise

When speaking to your audience, enunciate clearly. Don´t mumble or speak softly. Also, don’t drone on or be pedantic; be clear in speech, mannerism, movements and especially in your instructions.  

Develop a working relationship with other magicians; they'll be able to hand you performances they're too busy to do and vice-versa.

Try to be original. Develop an act that is different. Imatating someone else won't do.

If you are building an illusion, check with your local community theatre. They usually have great prop and set design people. A good prop person or set designer can paint and make any illusion look good. Often they will also help you build the illusion for a reasonable fee.