Novelty playing cards are trade show magic

To have a giveaway or not to have a giveaway - that is the question. Most people struggle with what promotional item to use because they don't have a strategy.

I love playing card games and card magic. (My favorite card games are cribbage, pitch and UNO. I am also a member of the Society of American Magicians.) Used properly, novelty playing cards are trade show magic. Here are a few concepts that you can deal with (pun intended):

1. Eco-Deck: Do you want to communicate that you are GREEN?
2. Unique Colors: Did you know that you can get quality playing cards in all types of colors? Can you find one that matches your company color?
3. Booth Theme: Does your booth have a sports theme or gambling? Do you have a highly engineered product? Can you predict their future?
4. Web Focus: Are you a web designer? Does your product work over the internet? Are you promoting a new web site?
5. Browse around The 1 Eyed Jack to come up with your own ideas.

A key reason for a promotional item is memorability. Here's a strategy for novelty playing cards:

• To drive traffic to your custom exhibit before the expo even starts, send out a pre-show mailing or survey with a coupon. Those that answer the questions or bring their coupon receive a gift at the booth.
• Hire a professional lead generator that is a corporate magician. They will showcase the deck, communicate your message and qualify attendees. Post a video on your site!
• Only give decks to attendees that are qualified leads. This helps your budget, provides direction for your staff and forces attendees to give their information.
• Do not give the decks out at the show. Use it as part of your thank you or follow up trade show strategies. Have your sales team hand deliver the decks that make sense.

What fun ways have you used novelty playing cards as part of your trade show strategy?