In the era of hi tech Internet and social media advertising comes sign spinning, which many people would classify as an “old school” form of advertising. Far from old school, sign spinning adds a new “spin” on regular sign holding and is quickly becoming one of the more effective types of advertising.

Sign spinners were found spinning signs and turning heads in the streets of Santa Barbara for the grand opening of the new Fresh & Easy.

Chris Altamirano was one of those sign spinners showing off his skills and attracting the attention of passerby’s. Sign spinners, including Altamirano use a “tricktionary” of 500 tricks to impress crowds at any event.

And impress they do. Altamirano receives countless compliments from people while spinning. “You’re so good at that” and “Were you born with that talent?” are just a few that hype him up and make him enjoy the job even more.

Sign spinning is a one-of-a-kind job that takes many hours of practice and a lot of endurance. Altamirano is a “spinstructor” for AArrow Ads, where he holds practices once a week for other sign spinners. “We make you do push ups, sit-ups and spinning,” said Altamirano.

Sign spinning is not only a job, but also opens doors for spinners to show off their talent. Altamirano, along with hundreds of sign spinners across the country compete in a national competition to win the title of best sign spinner. This year was Altamirano’s first year participating in the competition that was held in Las Vegas. He placed 22nd out of 80 competitors and was number two in Los Angeles!

Although spinning signs is their job, people like Altamirano can be found smiling and waving to people on the streets and in cars passing by. It might just be these smiles that help this form of advertising rise to the top.

Source: KEYT.com
Article by: John Palminteri