5 Mistakes to Avoid When Purchasing Promotional Items

1. Purchasing "Throwaways" - Do you enjoy burning money? No? If you are purchasing items that are not re-usable, you might as well be. Re-usable items like pens and tote bags have value. They can be used over and over again, and each time they are utilized, your company logo or name is seen. This results in a higher rate of retention from the customer. Find products your customers will place on their desk, in their drawers, and in their briefcases if you want a higher return.
2. Providing Items to Individuals Who do not Need Your Product - When an individual walks into a trade show and strolls up to your booth, they fall into two categories: they either need your product or service or they don't. If you simply set out a box of promotional products for anyone passing by, you are less likely to obtain real customers. Only provide your items to customers who are interested in your service and don't waste time or money on those who are simply there to stock up on free products.
3. Forgetting Existing Customers - While many companies view promotional items as a way to draw in new customers at trade show booths, you should take care to remember your existing customers. The clients you already have are loyal, and by providing them with items as corporate gifts, you are showing them how much you appreciate them.
4. Purchasing Cheap Items - Every business at one time or another has had to deal with budget cuts. This does not mean you should purchase cheap promotional items. No matter what your budget is for promotions, use it to purchase the highest quality products you can. This of course, does not mean more expensive products will be a higher quality. Whether you are purchasing tote bags, pens, or desk clocks, if the items are high quality, they will be durable and long lasting.
5. Forgetting to Follow up - So, the tradeshow or event is over, and you are ready to pack up and head home until next year. While you may think that your job is done, it is only beginning. If you want the potential customers you met at your booth to become lasting clients, it is essential that you follow up. Call them, email them, send them a post card, or mail them a catalog. No matter what you do, keep the lead fresh and keep the potential customer thinking about you.