[Deptheads] Engaging the Audience

[RJ]

>I happen to notice that there quite a few people who wander around a lot 
>looking at lots of stuff but not playing much.
Been in Florida so just getting to this.  (Star Wars Weekend at Walt Disney 
World - crazy busy)

"Ribbons" are the strips of colored ribbon that attach under badges at 
cons/events...  hope you all know what I mean.

Here are some ideas on the topic, just ideas, and most voluntary:
1 - "Start Here" or "Info" desk, maybe attached to Reg Desk - possibly the 
Dealer Dollar people since they are slow in the early part of the 
con?  They could give basic info and refer people to someone directly, even 
walk them there.
2 - "My First Con" or "New to gaming" etc ribbon for badges, showing that 
they would be interested in demos and game invites.
3 - "Ask Me ________" tags for people who will help with 
tours/demos/games.  "Ask me: BoardGames" so someone would know that person 
is willing to help.  Does not have to be staff.
4 - Rework the "New to Con" section of the Con Book  - Reg Desk could make 
"first contact" and direct the people to that section if they need help.
5 - Start marking peoples badges showing how many Strategicon events they 
have been to.  gold for one, silver for five...  If you see an empty badge 
looking lost, you know to ask if you can help!  (how would we start it for 
those who have been to 30 + haha!)
6 - Is there a "new to con" section on web page?
7 - Offer a first time badge with discount, or refund, or let them arrange 
for a tour in advance.  "First time to the Con get $5 off a one day badge - 
at 8AM meet at the registration desk for a tour of the convention and 
..."  or "Email ______ to arrange for a tour of the con or be introduced to 
someone who can show you around your area of interest"....

Overall I don't think new people have to much a trouble once at the Con.  I 
would think the scariest is for RPG people who have not idea what it will 
be like to join strangers in a convention setting, not sure about "house 
rules" "rules nazis" etc.

RJ