I recently staffed a table to sell my Rhythms & Muse novel and music CD at the Arizona CityFest Women’s Luncheon and Expo. Between talking with visitors, I made note of certain tactics effective in drawing people into a booth.

My friend Janet Drez (R) and her daughter Summer (L) at my expo table.

Here are some of the techniques I identified:

• Register early so you get the best pick of tables considering the traffic flow
• Wear a name tag
• Fill your table corners so attendees can’t place purses or other items on them, which block your table visibility
• Have a focal point on your table that draws the eye, like flowers, a computer monitor, etc.
• Use good eye contact
• Ask a compelling question as someone walks past the table
• Offer special discounts just for that day
• Offer neat finger foods like cookies, hard candy or licorice
• If you’re selling from the booth, make sure product prices are prominently, but tastefully, displayed
• Stand in front of the table to hand out “leave-behind” marketing, like a business card, postcard or flier
• Remember to bring sufficient change for cash purchases
• Provide receipts

What else can you suggest?