Promotional items aren't what they used to be. Gone are the days of neon sun visors, keychain bottle openers, and giant pencils. Giveaways available today, are often more useful and most are downright fun.
Based on a study by the Advertising Specialty Institute, the average client who receives a desk, office, or corporate gift will keep it for an average of three years. Promotional writing instruments are kept for about three and a half years and promotional apparel is kept for five years. If your giveaway is useful, your logo will be around for a while. The more unique and usable the giveaway, the more possibilities you have at keeping your company top-of-mind.
As promotional items evolve, it's important to gain an informed perspective on how you're promoting your business. There are many determining factors that you should consider before putting your business's name out there. Your target audience is by far the most important.
The 5 Ws + an H
As mentioned in a previous edition of the Monogram Messenger,
Make Promotional Items Work for You, defining your audience and knowing what would be valuable to them is one of the most important steps you can take in determining what promotional item(s) you're going to choose.
To determine what your giveaway should be, implementing the 5 Ws--Who, What, When, Where, Why--is essential:
- Who is your target customer?
- What giveaway would be most useful or memorable to them?
- When will they use it?
- Where will they use it?
- Why would they keep it?
While the 5 Ws are essential in the decision-making process, knowing how you'll distribute your giveaway is also very important to consider. Trade shows, seminars, direct mail, and conferences are all invaluable ways to promote your business and will have a direct effect on the promotional item you choose.
Get Creative
Now that you know who your target audience is, the fun of picking a promotional item can begin. Thinking creatively in terms of choosing promotional items for your customers can help solidify your brand in their minds. If you're looking to get your name out there for back-to-school, the fall trade show season, or any other reason, here are some product examples across the budget spectrum:
- Phone Stand/Cradle -- this quality product is perfect for users who want ease of access to their device, whether it's a cell phone, iPod, or MP3 player.
- Mini Solar Charger -- you'll be your client's hero when their cell phone battery dies and they realize they have your branded solar charger with them.
- Stylus Pen -- a new twist on promotional pens. The stylus pen doubles as a ballpoint pen for writing on paper and a stylus pen to use on smartphones, tablets, e-readers, etc.
- Golf ball USB Flash Drive -- USB drives are useful at the office, on the go, and at school. And, they come in a variety of styles to choose from. Your client's files can go anywhere your client goes.
- Portable Rechargeable Mini Bluetooth Speaker -- perfect for multitasking--your clients can set this on their desk and talk hands-free, or wirelessly connect to their media device to listen to music.
Today's promotional giveaways are exciting and inventive--they will effectively promote your business for years after you distribute them. Just be sure to keep your customer in mind when choosing giveaways and they'll do the same for you when choosing where to do business.
Sincerely,
Mona Graham
Monogram Communication Services
798 University Avenue
Sacramento, CA 95825
Phone: 916.922.0930
Fax: 916.922.0929
In 2013, we want to help you get the most from your marketing budget. Call us today to learn how we can take away the pain that often comes with creating brilliant solutions.
