Where in the world am I today?: North Vancouver, BC, Canada
Not necessarily the first piece of marketing material you should put your hands on, but postcards ROCK, there’s no doubt about it. I’ve created a bunch of different designs over the years and have used them for everything from thank you notes to direct mailings, to give-aways at the end of shows. While working in Japan I also managed to use postcards as a way to collect extra tips at the end of my show.
I first has this happen while working at the Canal City Shopping Complex in Fukuoka, Japan. The client didn’t like the idea of collecting tips as per a traditional street performance, but when I suggested that I give away postcards to anyone who gave me a donation they lifted their no-tip policy and I was able to put a fair bit of extra $$$ in my jeans as a result.
At the end of my shows on cruise ships I stand at the exit of the theatre and give postcards away to anyone who wants them as a free souvenir of the show. I get paid well enough on ships that the cost of giving away a couple of hundred postcards at the end of a show is easily rolled into the fee I’m receiving. The results are always positive and give me yet another chance to connect with the passengers in the audience and leave a good impression with the staff I’m working with by making a little extra effort.
Any time you can do something that helps cement a good impression with your audience and your employers, you’re paving the way for repeat bookings. ‘nough said.
Useful online sources for postcards are:
- Modern Postcard: http://www.modernpostcard.com
- East Van Graphics: http://www.eastvangraphics.ca (These guys print the Super Star Performer Cards)
Where in the world am I today?: Aruba
Where in the world am I today?: At Sea aboard the Coral Princess (Caribbean)
