Promotional products can be the most cost-effective tool in your marketing toolbox. But they can also be a complete waste of time, resources and money—unless you do your homework. With more staying power than a 30-second television or radio commercial, and less expensive than a full-page colored ad in a publication, promotional products go outside the box of traditional advertising. So how can you possibly go wrong? There are many temptations in the world of promotional marketing that can lead even the best of marketing professionals astray. Stay away from these 5 “do-nots” of promotional marketing to help increase your bottom line.
#1. Do not wait until the stroke of midnight
Although awesome promotional product companies (i.e. Bullpen Marketing) can turn orders on a dime, some unknown factors can be hard to control such as inventory, shipping errors and acts of God. Also, waiting to the very last minute on orders can incur hefty expedited shipping costs, not to mention unhealthy stress and agitation levels. If possible, allow time for unforeseen events and place orders well in advance to avoid these last-minute headaches.
#2. Do not give a pork chop to a vegetarian
Not knowing your targeted audience for your promotional product campaign is a disastrous mistake leading to wasted time and money. There’s a simple reason for this: People will not keep something that doesn’t resonate with them. You wouldn’t give a vegetarian a pork chop, would you? No matter the case, the promotional items you’re handing out should have the goal of getting more sales and better customer response. Take some time to think about your intended audience and ask yourself “Would they like this item?” Better yet, use your promotional product company (such as Bullpen) as a resource for product selection advice. This isn’t our first rodeo…or trade show…or client appreciation dinner…or employee safety program…or…well—you get the picture.
#3. Do not have unrealistic expectations
If it feels looks like a $0.25 pen, and writes like a $0.25 pen—it’s probably a $0.25 pen… (more…)
