Top Hints for Choosing the Right Promotional Products

Promotional products offer a unique advertising opportunity. Because they are not viewed as advertising, people tend to keep and use them. Furthermore, recipients usually form a positive association between the product and the company. The key is to choose the right promotional item.

T-Shirts & Wearable Promotions

Putting a company logo on clothing is an excellent way to raise brand awareness and attract new customers. The people who wear the t-shirt not only get repeated exposure to the logo, but they also take the logo wherever they go. Giving out t-shirts is like getting free advertising. Some strategies ensure that recipients will actually love to wear their free shirts.

• People want to wear something comfortable, so lightweight, soft products are best. Preshrunk products are also preferable.
• Size matters. Choosing the correct fit for the target audience is critical, so it is important to consider who will be wearing the shirt.
• For a more fashion-forward or environmentally aware crowd, organic or recycled cotton t-shirts are a great option.

Office Supplies

Desk accessories are an excellent choice for business-to-business promotion. They work best for corporate clients or for customers who probably work white-collar jobs. Since these items are often used daily, office supplies represent an excellent promotional investment. When choosing office supplies and accessories for promotional purposes, utility is key.

• Items like pens or pencils are inexpensive, and can be used by just about anyone. They also tend to get lost, reducing the impact of the logo.
• People who work in administration are likely to appreciate organizational products, like post-it notes or wall calendars.
• For members of upper management, leather portfolios, desk sets, and high-end mouse pads are excellent options.

Novelty or Specialty Items

Because it is easy to put a logo on such a wide variety of products, it is easy to tailor promotional products to a specific audience. Because these specialty items can be more expensive, careful consideration of the hobbies and interests of the target audience is critical.

• Gadgets, tools, and car emergency kits usually appeal to men of all ages. Meanwhile, spa or body care products generally have universal appeal for women.
• Recreational items can be customized for different seasons, and can be made gender-specific. These also work well for older customers, who generally have more time to travel.
• Clients who travel often appreciate luggage tags, carry-on size duffel bags, or travel pillows.

If thoughtfully chosen, promotional products can prove an asset to any marketing strategy. They boost name recognition and recall, provide a useful product, and foster positive associations for the company.