Friday, March 20, 2009

5 Ways to Waste Your Money on Promotional Products

Over the past 30 years, we have seen many clients come to us with promotional products which just don't work. Frankly, these client's have wasted their money! Promotional products are the most measurable form of advertising out there. So, if you are going to advertise, why not start with the result in mind?

Here is a list of things to avoid when considering the purchase of promotional products.

1 - The item does not have value. This is where the term "trinkets and trash" comes from. Purchasing cheap promotional items for the sake of just giving something away is a real waste of money. Ask yourself if the item will have a long term use.

2 - People not willing to hand out these business promotional products. These marketing business items do no good in a closet. They are advertising! Get the maximum exposure of your logo.

3 - Information overload on the item. If your goal is to get your name out there, than do that (always with some contact info like a phone number or web address) this overload of information makes the item less likely to be used and in many cases, becomes illegible.

4 - Don't clearly explain your message. Be consistent with your message through all your graphic communications. All your print, multi-media and promo items should be consistent with your brand.

5 - No Plan! If you do not have a goal in mind for the product how can you tell if it is working for you. If you fail to plan, you plan to fail!

In summation, look for items which professionally promote your brand and your corporate message. Plan for success by buying the correct item for your target audience. Most of all have a plan and measure the results.