From company branded pens to high end personalized gifts the use of promotional products is an affordable and effective way to grow your business. Sounds simple? It can be, if you follow these simple guidelines...
Think about your business aim
Do you want to increase sales? Advertise your company name? Promote customer loyalty? Promotional products can have many uses so you need to have a clear objective of what you want to achieve before you start.
Select a product that is appropriate to your audience and promotion
Start with the type of promotion first and then look at how you can best engage with your audience. If you're simply looking to advertise your business to a mass market then a branded pen may be the best solution. However, if you want to thank someone for their business throughout the year then a discreetly personalised item may be more appropriate.
Define a clear budget
Decide on a budget and stick to it. This is especially true if you haven't bought promotional products before. Make sure you also account for shipping and handling costs and factor them into your overall marketing costs. And remember, your print price will be more expensive if your logo has more than one colour in it.
Keep your corporate colours in mind
When choosing your product, try to co-ordinate with your company colours. This will give your branding greater focus and help to make your product look bespoke. One of the easiest ways to do this is with a promotional pen - choose "mix and match" clip and barrel options which incorporate your company colours.
Make use of multiple print areas
Many promotional products can be printed in more than one location so take advantage of this.You'll save money on having to buy fewer products by promoting multiple brand messages on one item. Wherever possible, include your company contact details and web address.
Go Green
More and more businesses have environmental objectives to strive for as part of their business plan - if you do or if you run an eco-friendly business or service then think about using recycled promotional products. Not only will you be able to advertise your company name you'll also associate your brand with positive eco-values.
Timing
Timing as they say is everything. Try to make sure that your promotion doesn't clash with any large scale events as this can dilute your impact. For instance, it may not be the best idea to promote your Easter range during the World Cup!
Order early
Aim to order your products at least one month in advance of your promotion especially at busy times of the year such as Christmas. Not only will you ensure that your product is available in the quantity and colour you require, you may also qualify for "early bird" discounts.
