Last week, I had the pleasure of working with the team from Worksoft on their conference booth at UKISUG Connect.
UKISUG Connect is an annual three-day conference at the ICC in Birmingham, bringing together around 1,000 SAP customers, experts, partners and professionals to learn, share ideas, and network. As an Exhibition and Trade Show magician, my role was to help Worksoft attract potential customers to their stand using magic.
Exhibiting at an event like this is a major investment, and competition for attendees’ attention is fierce. Companies try all sorts of tactics to make sure their stand stands out — and hiring a magician is one of the most effective.
There are a few reasons this works well.
1. It’s an instant conversation starter.
“Do you want to see some magic?” is far more appealing than “Would you like to hear about our software solution?” Magic provides a friendly, pressure-free way to stop people in their tracks.
2. The magic is branded and memorable.
I create bespoke routines that incorporate the company’s branding or message – sometimes with custom playing cards, or maybe with a humorous nod to their product. It gets a smile, and crucially, it ensures visitors remember both the magic and the company behind it.
3. Visitors arrive pre-qualified and warmed up.
Once I’ve engaged (and hopefully amazed) someone, I’ll quickly establish whether they might be a potential customer. If they are, I introduce them to the sales team. By that point, they’re relaxed, open, and far more receptive to a conversation than they were a few minutes earlier.
4. Extra value through social-media content.
I also create content to help promote my client during and after the event. This boosts footfall to the stand and gives the company additional visibility long after the conference finishes.
After three long but very enjoyable days, I returned to London to some lovely feedback from the Worksoft team. Here’s what Will had to say:
Darren supported at our conference booth with amazing magic tricks. The guests loved him and it drew the most activity we have seen at our booth in all the 20+ events I have done here. Highly recommend!
– Will S, Worksoft
If you’re exhibiting at a trade show, exhibition or conference and want to stand out from the crowd, get in touch for a no-obligation chat. I’d love to help you make your next event unforgettable.
