Devour magic handbooks, guides, tutorials and see live magic acts in your area. You can start with the "The Amateur Magician's Handbook" by Henry Hay or learn free tricks at Learning Magic Tricks (see Resources). Visiting magic shows in your area can expose you to the differences between stand-up magic, kids magic, illusions and slight of hand.
Work in a magic store to learn more about the industry and make contacts with other magicians.
Master and refine your skills for friends and family at parties until you are ready to branch out to paid gigs. Approach local libraries, amphitheaters, night clubs, party planners and schools about performing.
Join the The International Brotherhood of Magicians or Society of American Magicians (see Resources). The latter comes with a members-only subscription to M-U-M, or Magic-Unity-Might with information on the magic business, publicity, showmanship and interviews.
Create a reel of your magic tricks and performances and create a video blog. Entice new customers by teaching a few simple tricks online. Post information about your services and rates.
Sign up at Gig Masters (see Resources) to advertise your services. Use the site to generate bookings, post photos, gather client testimonials, create a newsletter and develop press kits.
Contact a local cable station about performing your magic on air. Use the exposure to platform yourself to bigger venues, including Las Vegas.