In this day and age, it seems the go-to promotional products are all the same; the Water Bottle, the Pen, the Pedometer. Trying to market your brand and company is becoming increasingly more difficult, because your rival company is doing the same thing, using the same tactics and same products as you are. For your next marketing campaign, step out of the box and give or send an unforgettable, unique item that will keep your brand at the forefront of everyone’s mind. This doesn’t need to be an extravagant or pricey operation, just creative. Here are a few ideas on how to find the perfect product.
• Tradeshows – I recently went to my first tradeshow, the PPAI Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada. Not only was I blown away at the amount of products and vendors that were in attendance, but the ideas and possibilities for all the new items that were presented at the show were unparalleled. The opportunity to attend one of these shows, small or large, is worth it. Take pictures, ask questions, and leave business cards. The time and effort spent networking at your next tradeshow will be worth it.
http://expo.ppai.org/
• Vendor Reach Out – You have done the networking at your tradeshow now it is time to reconnect. Ask your vendor to WOW you. Pens are a quick and inexpensive leave behind; now ask for one that is magnetic, with a stylus and dual highlighter. Instead of a wall-calendar, give away magnetic calendar cubes for the office desk. Having one or two special features on your leave-behind item will have your customer or prospect using, and more importantly, keeping it. The price points shouldn’t break the bank, but show off your creativity and attention to detail.
https://online.norwoodbic.com
• You – How many giveaway T-shirts have you thrown away because the shirt was itchy or the logo was hideously large and unflattering? You are a consumer as well and have no doubt received the very same items that your business is trying to send out. What do you like? What type of apparel item would you keep and actually wear? A softer, trendy V-neck perhaps or a long-sleeve with thumb-holes. Most apparel vendors have lines that are a bit more comfortable and are keeping up with today’s clothing trends. Try to think outside of the average polo when selecting apparel items so your company’s shirt doesn’t end up in the garage sale.
http://www.sanmar.com/
The right promotional item can go a long way in building your business. So take the time to find that special piece that will represent your company and brand. Use your intuition as a consumer and provide that one product that will keep you top-of-mind for any marketing venture.