On the weekend I attended a Vintage Collectors Market and Car Show with a couple of friends, to show off my old drag racing car. Although it was only a small event, all three of us were run off our feet until closing time talking, posing for pictures, answering questions, and we even received an invite too please come back as a special guest to the next event.
The vendors in next bay believed it was purely the attraction of a drag car that brought attention to us, but as we weren’t the only unique car on display, and certainly not the nicest looking, I think there was a bit more to it.
So what did we do to stand out and draw attention to what we had on display?
- Get setup early
Make sure you’re setup and ready as soon as people start coming through the gates. Even if it means you have a chance to sit and have a coffee before the mayhem starts. - Overcome a difficult location
Even though our bay was partially hidden, we had large bright teardrop flags which could be seen over everyone else.
I noticed another display had a bubble blowing machine and others used music. Use what your budget and imagination can provide. - Have a reason for people to come into your zone
Although we had unique car on display, we opened the doors and allowed people to sit in the drivers seat. (Don’t forget to drain the fuel or disconnect the accelerator cable, as they love to push the pedal.) - Look the part
All three of us chose to wear the same shirts with our race team branding, so if anyone had questions, we were easily identified. But you don’t need to be branded, just choose to all look the same. If it’s a themed event, then dress the part. - Be approachable
Big friendly smiles, lots of loud laughter, a little dancing and silliness and absolutely no sitting down looking at phones. It makes people feel like they’re not interrupting, and they want to join in. Look for bored kids, and try to make them smile … they will drag mum or dad over to you. - Hand out your freebies
Don’t just have a bowl of lollies, make sure you have some on hand to give out. Watch as people walk past, and don’t be afraid to step out of your zone and hand someone a lollipop. No sales, no push, just a smile and a lollipop.
Posters are cheap to print up at OfficeWorks (just a colour laser A3 is great), have them rolled up and ready to hand out. And of course… GirlsTorque swap cards :) - DO NOT LEAVE EARLY
This is the most important piece of information you need to follow. Be the last to leave, not the first. You would be surprised how many people drop by in that last hour.