Magic for Networking Events
Get people talking at your next networking event
Make it fun!
Why do people go to networking events? They are looking to form new relationships and opportunities. There are a variety of different ways to get attendees socializing. Some networking events play games like “Hollywood Squares.” I’ve been to networking events where we had something similiar to a dance card. Having a magician stroll around the event is one of the best ways to get people communicating with each other. Below are five reasons you need a magician at your next networking event.
1. Breaking the ice
I’ve written about this in other posts. It holds true that magic is the perfect icebreaker for any type of networking event. Not everyone has the skill to just strike up a conversation with a total stranger. Imagine going to an event and seeing that one person you’ve been wanting to meet. You want to introduce yourself. But, that person is by the bar, engaged in conversation with someone else. Do you interrupt? Do you stand by and hope they acknowledge you? Do you say, “Hey, I connected with you on LinkedIn! Let’s be friends!” It can be very awkward.
Now worries! That is where I come in. After all, I am the entertainment. I am SUPPOSED to go up to groups and engage with them. Let me be the icebreaker that shy attendee is praying for! Once I engage, I can bring that shy attendee in. They are now part of the conversation!
2. Sharing valuable content
You want to make sure your attendees know what’s going on at the event. You have a list of opportunities on the website. You’ve handed out programs. You even make announcements during the opening ceremony. But you still have people coming up to you after the event saying, “I didn’t know [insert topic] was being workshopped! How did I miss that? Maybe you can put it on the website next time.” And you think to yourself, “I did!”
There is another way. As I’m strolling around, I will use your program and other literature to perform mind-reading tricks! Can you imagine how your attendees will feel when I magically predict what speaker or workshop they plan to attend? It will blow their minds! More importantly, it will be very informative. Everyone will get to hear what others have planned. This will provide excellent networking opportunities while enjoying mind-blowing magic!
3. Hospitality Specialist
I am more than a magician. I am hospitality specialist. My job is to ensure everyone at the networking event is having a great time. This might mean showing them a magic trick, or holding their bag while they use the restroom. I am there to serve them.
4. Communicate your core message
What message do you want your attendees to take away? Every networking event is different. Topics and themes change year to year. Changes are, if they are there, they already have an idea of what topics will be covered. I will help to reinforce your core message by doing extensive research. If the main focus of the event is how to be a more effective blogger, I will incorporate that message into my performance.
Customization is the key! I am there to share YOUR brand, not mine. It’s not about me. I will get them tweeting like crazy! I will give them things to share on their Snapchat and Instagram. Is there a particular hashtag you are trying to trend? I WILL get them sharing it. How will I do this? I will offer incentives. We can work together to create incentives custom to your event, or I can provide my own. A major incentive is my Magic Castle membership. The Hollywood Magic Castle is the most exclusive club in Los Angeles. You have to be invited by a member to visit. I will offer your attendees guest passes to the Magic Castle if tweet (or share on any prefered social network) an update about the event with your hashtag!
5. Make it memorable
When it comes down to it, having a magician like myself stroll around your networking event is just plain fun! What do you want your attendees to remember? When they go home and blog, or podcast, about your event, what do you want them to say? If anything else, I guarantee they will say it was a fun experience. They will say you cared enough about them to go the extra mile with entertainment.
I understand our wants and needs. I will customize my performance to fit your event. I will help you and your attendees achieves goals. Your attendees will thank you for providing wonderful entertainment.