Thinking about this, clubs differ so much in how they atttract paying customers. Some clubs will only get people through the door if they know and like the performer. Other clubs could almost put on performing monkies and the same people will turn up. If its the former, you have to get yourself known in the area. You can't blame the club organiser for not booking you at a loss.
Try to take paying friends along to each gig.
Establish a data base
be prepared to do some of your own publicity.
Big Al - the current youngsters won't be collecting their pension till they are 90. Shes got plenty of time.
FloraG